Chapter 34 – Imagine

Wednesday, November 18th, 2026

Boston, MA

Gabi's POV

Troy and I were bundled up with Grey smooshed against my chest as we looked at a house in Boston. It was a beautiful home with an open floor plan, there was a big neighborhood pool just a block away, and we were only twenty minutes from the ballpark. "I like it," Troy said twisting around to look and I nodded, "It's very beautiful," I said as I admired the modern kitchen and the big open living room.

We had jetted off to Boston today to look at potential houses so when Troy made his decision. He had many different offers from many different cities. Troy quickly threw out ones that we didn't want to take our family too. New York held so many special memories for us and we just didn't feel fit for our family of four. Los Angeles was the same story so we were looking at cities with great suburbs. Boston, Tampa, Houston were all in the top runners.

We went to Houston last week and Troy really liked it down there. Today we were in Boston and I just wasn't sure what Troy was feeling at this point. I looked at Troy as he made his way to the stairs. This house had enough rooms for all the kids and plenty of guest space. Grey moved against my chest and I bounced him gently as I kissed on his little head. Troy and I definitely celebrated that World Series win by breaking doctor rules.

We both went slow but we had to celebrate, after that we jetted to New York with Grey to celebrate there as well. It was a fantastic time and Troy was very happy with how everything turned out. The fans were begging him left and right to sign back in Kansas City but Troy very much was concerned about coming back and ruining the memories. Troy went into the master bedroom, it was very beautiful and spacey but I kept comparing it to our house at home.

Grey cried and Troy turned to look at us, "He okay?" Troy asked and I nodded my head, "Yea, I think he is getting hungry though." I said and Troy nodded his head, "We can get ready to go. What do you think?" I smiled, "I'm happy with it. It'll depend on how your meeting today goes." Troy smiled as he came over to kiss my head. "We should probably head back to the hotel so he can you, you can nap, and I can get ready for the meeting tonight."

"Good."

We walked out thanking our realtor as we got into the little car we rented. I situated Grey and he cried closing his eyes, I buckled him in but that caused him to get fussy. "I'll sit here with him," I said to Troy and he nodded his head, "Okay," I rubbed Grey's belly as he had issues with gas lately as Troy drove through the neighborhood. It was truly a beautiful area. I could see the kids being happy here and I would be happy here. I love Boston.

Absolutely love Boston.

Yet, it just wasn't Kansas City.

Troy pulled up to our hotel not far from Fenway as we he parked the car. I unhooked Grey as we went inside, Troy slipped Grey from my hands as his hand went to my back. We found our way to our hotel room when Troy's phone dinged. He sat Grey down as I got him out to feed him, "It's your dad," Troy said chewing on his finger nail, "He'll be here in twenty minutes."

"Are you nervous? You weren't this nervous for Houston." I told him as Grey fed and my eyes peeked at him before looking up at Troy. "I don't know, I know how much you love Boston." I smiled, "Babe, don't worry about me, remember? This is all about you." I said to him and he shrugged, "I still have you in mind." He reminded me as he pulled on his dress shirt. I watched my sexy ass husband as he got dressed holding our one month old son.

Troy pulled on his pants as he sighed, "Is he able to be snuggled or…?" I laughed as I looked at Grey who was falling asleep which is truly what he needed. "Yea," I unlatched him as I handed him to Troy as I covered up while Troy gently rocked Grey in his arms. I fixed his rock n play so Troy could lay him down. "He's so handsome," Troy said and I smiled, "His memories will be of whatever I chose." I pulled the covers over me, "It will be and he will be happy. He'll be around his daddy,"

He smiled as Troy laid him down and tucked a blanket around him. He then crawled onto the bed as he pressed his lips over mine. "I love you."

"I love you too." I squeezed his bicep and there was a knock on the door. He kissed me again before moving to go answer the door. "Hey, you ready?" My dad moved into the room and he grinned looking at Grey sleeping, "He's so beautiful." My dad said and I laughed, "Troy literally just said the same exact thing." He came into the room and then he kissed my forehead, "Did you like any houses?" I nodded, "A couple."

"I'm glad." I smiled as Troy pulled on his tie, I got out of bed and I went over to help him tie it. "You know I can do this right?" he asked and I nodded, "I know, but I am sending you a bit of luck." He kissed my forehead and I smiled, "I love you."

"I love you too."

"I'll make sure it goes well," my dad said who was dressed just as well as Troy. "Be good," I warned and we all laughed as they exited the room. I pulled Grey closer to me as I pulled the blanket up and closer to me. I rocked him back and forth in the thing to keep him asleep as I sent a text to Britt who was concerned about our adventures. She was one who really didn't want us to leave Kansas City. We exchanged a couple of text messages before my eyes got a bit too heavy for me to handle.

Sleep when the baby sleeps right?

Troy's POV

I sat in the meeting as I stared out at the Fenway ballpark. One of my favorites growing up and the beautiful green wall in the background. "Troy, we would absolutely love for you to become a part of our team. You have lead the Royals to multiple World Series trips. Two championships. You are a true leader in the clubhouse sand on the field." I looked at the GM and the president of the club as they had spent the last hour trying to woo me.

It was impressive everything they had and the amount of advantage. Their equipment and high-tech technology was helpful and would reduce my scouting. "What about families?" I asked looking at them, "Do they travel with the team ever?" I asked after they gave me confused looks, both men laughed shaking their head. "No. We try to keep our travel time as a down period for everybody. There are certain occasions but mostly family is on their own to get places. Never in the clubhouse either."

I frowned slightly as I looked over at Alex who knew that was not the correct thing to say to me. "Troy is big on family," Alex said, "But imagine the life where you don't have to worry about them being around all the time and bugging you," I took a deep breath as I almost just pushed away from the table. Alex put his hand on my arm and I looked over at him. "How about we move on to the offer," he finally said.

The GM and the President both shared a look with each other. "We are here to present Troy a sizeable offer." I cleared my throat leaning back, "I sure hope so if you don't value family in the clubhouse." The president raised an eyebrow at my comment while Alex kicked my shin, I tried to not roll my eyes but it almost escaped. "We're thinking 8 years, 250 million dollars." I stopped and I looked up at them as they just blew Houston's offer out of the water.

"Excuse me?" I asked, they shared a sly smile, "You are a fantastic pitcher Troy,"

"I'm going into my late years," I argued, "250 million? That is crazy." I was baffled at the amount of money and I just shook my head. "If you knew me and what was really important to me then you would know that my life isn't about money. It's about my family. My family. All four of my kids and my beautiful wife. 150 million dollars would be plenty to get my kids all started on their first homes. Yet, you didn't play to that interests."

Both of them lost their smile. Alex shook his head for a moment and then looked across the table, "I tried to tell you guys that Troy didn't want much to do with the money." I stood up as I reached across the table to shake both of their hands. "I hope you consider what I just said but I am thankful for the offer. I'll have Alex be in contact." They were baffled as I buttoned my jacket and then out the door. "Troy," Alex said and I shook my head, "I can't Alex, that is so much money,"

"Exactly, taking one big contract is what you are supposed to do."

"No." I shook my head, "Family is more important. If I am moving my whole family here they better be damn important." I bit down on my lip as I shook my head, "I have to go. We have a flight to catch early tomorrow morning."

"Imagine it Troy,"

"Imagine what Alex?"

"Imagine not having to worry about anything ever again from that contract. You will never see that money from the Royals."

"No, but they sure as shit love my wife. They love my kids. They can roam the downstairs and not get yelled at for trespassing. They get to still be kids and run around dad's work." Alex sighed, "I get it, okay? You have made a home in the Royals clubhouse. Your kids love it there. Your family is important to the city. Why are we doing this then?" I stopped as I dug my hands in the pocket of my pants. "Because, I would be cheating myself if I didn't."

"Then listen to these offers Troy, Gabi said to not worry about the family right now. Sit down and listen if you don't want to cheat yourself out of this process. You did well with Houston but they emphasized family. Boston may be too big of a market for you then."

Running my fingers through my hair and I took a deep breath, "I'm sorry." I told him honestly, "250 is just…too much money."

"I didn't know that was a thing."

"It definitely is."

There was a laugh between us and we began to walk out, "I'll keep them in consideration. I figure they will call you tomorrow if they still want their offer in the game." Alex nodded, "Probably, and all of the rules will change." I laughed as we got into the car together that took us back to the hotel. I checked my cell phone to see that there was a lack of messages. One text from my dad and one text from Cody asking me how the tour was going.

I called Cody as Alex was on the phone himself. "Hey, how did it go?"

"A whole lot of money,"

"Oh man, I know how much you guys like Boston."

"I don't know if I could handle having that much money tied to my name."

"You'll find your home."

"I'll talk to Gabi tonight but I just don't see myself fitting in with the upper management."

"That's fair. You have to be happy."

"The biggest thing. Where will I be happy?" Cody sighed, "That is all in your head." I just nodded kicking the floor underneath of me. I saw the hotel come into view and I sighed, "Cody, I'll call you tomorrow. Gabi and I have a redeye back to KC tonight."

"When do you go to Tampa?"

"Monday before Thanksgiving."

"When do you want to make you decision?"

"Soon. I want to enjoy my off season."

"Good, I am happy for you getting to see your worth…finally." I laughed taking a breath, "Yea, we'll see." We hung up and I looked over at Alex, "Thanks for doing this with me Alex," he smiled, "I know why you have family so high on your list Troy, and as the dad of the girl you married, I am thrilled to know how much you love my daughter. How much you love my grandchildren. Just listen to these offers and we will figure out the family aspect okay? This isn't forever."

"But it's long enough that my kids will remember."

Alex nodded in understanding as the door opened and a few people stopped me but I ignored them. I tucked my hands in my jacket pocket while I went up the stairs to avoid more people. I began to loosen my tie and walked on our hotel floor and grabbed my room key. The door unlocked and it was quiet. Gabi was still curled underneath the blanket and Grey was fast asleep in the Rock-n-play. I smiled as I took off my coat and took off my dress pants and pulled on a pair of sweats as I crawled into bed with Gabi.

I reached across and grab the blanket from her and she moaned causing me to laugh as I pulled her back against me. "How did it go?" she said and I sighed putting my chin on her shoulder, my lips close to her ear as I put a tiny kiss there. "Okay,"

"Okay?" I didn't say anything and she turned over to face me. Her tiny hand touched my cheek, "Troy…" she said and I shrugged, "They offered me a whole lot of money but couldn't promise the importance of family." She looked at me and then curled into my arms, "You're a stubborn man," she said and I laughed, "You can tell me a thousand times to put you guys aside but I just can't. They don't care about my family. They think money will take care of everything and it doesn't. It doesn't help the love of a father and being around."

"What was the offer?" she asked tilting her head back and I shook my head, "It's not important."

She looked at me and I looked right back at her, "don't make me work it out of you," she said rolling me to my back and straddling me and I laughed, "I think I like this way of torture," she smiled kissing me softly and she rested her head on my shoulder.

"250, eight years," I said quietly, she didn't say anything but she kissed my jaw and rested against me. I hugged her close to me and I took a deep breath hoping that this decision would make itself easy.

Thursday, November 26th, 2026

Thanksgiving

Gabi's POV

I stirred the mashed potatoes while Troy checked the turkey. We were hosting our first Thanksgiving in our new home. The kids were all laughing in the game room while Grey was sleeping in my mom's arms. I looked up at our families mingling. Luke and the twins were all outside messing around with baseball stuff. Britt and Casen were even here as they didn't want to travel home for Thanksgiving when they would be going home in a couple of weeks for Christmas.

Logan ran into the room and she was breathing heavy, "Mommy! Addy wants you," I nodded wiping my hands off on the towel as I went into the playroom off the kitchen as Addy was crying sitting down. I picked her up gently and she wrapped herself around me as I kissed her forehead. She felt a little warm and took her back out to the living room. "Do you want to see Emily?" I asked her and she shook her head, "Mommy has to finish cooking."

She shook her head and I smiled, "please," I said looking at her and she told me no again. "Addy, baby, what's wrong?" Troy asked walking closer to me, "She's tired I think," I said with a shrug and Troy nodded, "Go put her down for a nap if she needs one," I looked at the family and Troy smiled, "They all see her all the time. If she needs a nap she needs a nap." I just nodded as I went upstairs. We were closer to fully weaning off but she still mostly wanted to nurse when she was tired.

I sat down in the rocking chair in her room as she nursed and her eyes grew heavier and heavier. I brushed her little curls away from her face and I kissed on her forehead gently. I unlatched her and she whined so I let her continue to nurse. Once she finally pulled away I got up and I laid her down in her crib. I gave her, her favorite pacifier and blanket as I shut the blinds and walked downstairs. Troy was carving the turkey as everybody was pitching in to help.

I began to make plates for the kids as Britt came over, "Addy okay?"

"I think she's tired and maybe coming down with something." She pouted, "Poor girl is always sick." I nodded, "She really is. Makenli isn't too far behind but it is normally Addy who doesn't feel well." She helped me get the other two a plate ready with her almost thirty-week belly. Her and Casen were living on a high between the World Series and the baby news. They found out the sex but were keeping mum until they could their gender reveal party.

Logan was laughing with Luke and Cam as we sat her plate in front of her. Troy sat down with a plate as I did just right after him. I bit down on my lip as we all said grace together before we dug into our meal. There was plenty of chatter in the room as we all talked and discussed everything going on in everybody's life. The topic was staying far away from everything free agency related to Troy as it was a touchy subject right now.

The Tampa visit probably went the best of the three we had already done. They offered him more than Houston, less than Boston. But they did their research and preached family values to him. It made him happy. He was supposed to meet with Kansas City tomorrow to discuss what they wanted to do and I knew he was nervous for it. He was really nervous. I reached over and I let my hand slid onto his knee, "What are we all thankful for this year?"

Emily took a sneak over at Finn as they were set to get married at the beginning of January. They were a love-struck couple and so happy with each other. Britt and Casen shared a glance as I knew their baby news was ecstatic for them. "I'll start," Jack said, "I am thankful for another healthy year for all of my kids. My first son-in-law, and only, son-in-law will be welcoming to the family soon. Another grandbaby. And Luke taking a big leap in changing directions with his baseball career."

Lucille smiled, "I would have to ditto Jack, but retirement is also a bonus." The group laughed as we moved to Luke, "Having the best big brother who encouraged me to take a scary step forward in my baseball career." Troy smiled, Emily couldn't contain her grin, "I am so thankful for this handsome man who dropped to one knee to marry me and to get married this off season." Emily kissed Finn's cheek as he smiled, "I'm thankful for Emily who is willing to follow me in this crazy career and my new family who is pretty awesome."

My parents both spoke on happiness with our family and the twin's health. The twins were happy about just being with family as well.

Laughs shared among the group as we moved to Logan, "Logi, what are you thankful for?" I asked and she smiled, "My sisters and brother!" I smiled softly as we had done a three sixty since last year. We skipped of Makenli which landed on Britt, "I am so forever thankful for the Bolton family who encouraged us to pursue fertility treatment even though it was scary. We now are almost thirty weeks pregnant with our miracle baby. I will never be able to thank them enough for always listening and being happy for our family."

Casen squeezed Britt's hand gently and I looked at Casen, "I'm thankful for Britt and our sweet baby who will be here right before baseball season. Also, for friends like Troy who wouldn't take no for an answer on Thanksgiving Day."

When eyes landed on me I smiled, "I am forever grateful for my husband, my children, and my family. I am grateful for all of the new opportunities that face us no matter what direction we go." Troy smiled and he looked down at his plate as if he had to think about what he wanted to say. "First, I am thankful for my family. The never-ending support and my four beautiful children. I am thankful for a wife who absolutely never lets me give up on my dreams, no matter how much I push her in front she reminds me of the time limit I am on and to enjoy the ride. Thankful for a brother to help kick my butt in work-outs this off season. I am thankful that I have as many opportunities to play somewhere else and for another World Championships."

Everybody tipped glasses as we finished our meal together. A crackle came from the monitor as we all finished, I excused myself as I went upstairs. I peeked into Addy's room to see if she was standing or if she was still laying down. She was standing with real tears running down her face as I walked into the bedroom. She put her hands up and I let her wrap herself around me. She felt really warm now and I touched my head to hers.

"Oh, sweet girl,"

I sat down to rock her to calm her down, once her sobs subsided she just laid against me while sucking on her pacifier. She had her blanket pulled against her face when the door opened with Troy and Makenli. "Somebody has a big poop," Troy said wiggling her down onto changing table. "Is Ad okay?"

"I think she's running another fever," I said and Troy gave me a concerned look, "That's like the fourth one in two weeks." I nodded in understanding because she would just have fevers and not feel good. "If she is still miserable tomorrow I'll call her doctor." Troy nodded as he changed Makenli, I stood up and I walked out with them. Troy kissed Addy's face, "I'll grab meds," I nodded my head and he went to the bathroom while I rocked her in my arms.

Troy came back with the medication and gently eased it into her mouth. It caused her to grow upset but she swallowed it and kept it down. "Good girl," I whispered as she cried into my shoulder. I rubbed her back gently and kissed on her. "It's okay," I told her quietly, "It's okay,"

She stopped crying as I went downstairs to rejoin the party. Grey was being passed around again, somebody had warmed him up a bottle and was feeding him. I thanked them and then found a spot on the couch to watch TV with the family as well as hold Adalyn.

Troy's POV

I nursed a beer as I looked at Adalyn and Gabi snuggled up on the couch together. Addy did not feel good and was miserable. She only wanted Gabi and I knew she didn't feel good. "You okay?" I looked up at Alex while I picked at my beer bottle. "Kansas City will never match any of those offers." I told him and Alex nodded, "You're probably right." I sighed taking a deep breath as I looked over at my girls again. Makenli and Logan ended up going to my parents' house for the night so that we could tend to Addy and Grey.

"Tomorrow morning, if Addy doesn't feel good, I am going to call GM to see if I can push our meeting till next week. I don't want to leave Gabi alone with her." Alex nodded her head, "Okay," I looked back over at them and took a deep breath, "Just keep an open mind about all of them." I nodded and Alex patted my back, "Need anything else before I leave?" I shook my head. "Nope. I think we're okay. I am going to feed Grey and then get them both upstairs in bed."

Alex nodded, "Good luck." I thanked him as I prepared Grey a frozen breastmilk and eased him awake to eat. I sat on the couch scrolling through twitter when Addy woke up and began to vomit everywhere. "Shit," I put Grey down as I picked her up to avoid the huge mess that could be caused. Gabi woke up with a start to the liquid I took her over to the sink as she proceeded to throw up again as she began to sob.

"It's okay," I told her, "It's okay," she cried as I began to ease off her shirt and leggings. She was still warm even though she had medication an hour ago. She tried to cling to me but I turned on the warm water while allowing her to claw at me. "Addy," Gabi appeared behind me in only a sports bra. She took the nozzle and made sure it was warm enough before rinsing her off. She screamed, I held her with one arm while reaching for a towel in the drawer that we kept in here for Grey.

Once Gabi was done rinsing her off I quickly wrapped her up and she shook against me. "I was in the middle of giving Grey a bottle. I'll get her dressed and changed if you finish that." I said and she nodded while looking concerned at Addy. "It's okay Gabi," she kissed her face and I went upstairs with her. I found her a pair of warm jammies as I put her in a diaper and then into her pajamas. She cried the entire time as I then took her to our bedroom.

"I have you Addy," I whispered into her ear, "I have you." I rocked her until her cries began to subside against me when Gabi came upstairs with Grey. She put him on the other side of the bed, "Go take a shower," I told her and she only nodded, "Troy, she doesn't look good. She has not taken a drink or ate a thing since this morning." I looked at Addy and then at Gabi, "I'll see if I can get some juice in her," she sighed and I gave her a nudge to the shower.

Addy began to cough roughly and I rubbed her back as I found a juice box nearby and gave her the straw but she whined pushing it away. "Addy, baby, please," I asked her as I sat down on the bed with her. She whined again and I gave up the juice box. I just rocked her back and forth in my arms trying to get her to rest again. Gabi came out of the shower quickly but was also pumping, "She's asleep, did you get anything into her?"

"No." I answered, "She whined and pushed it away. I tried twice."

"Troy,"

"It's okay. We'll see if she makes it through the night without another incident. Then we will try to give her water tomorrow morning." Gabi looked upset and scared, "It's okay." I reminded her as I gently laid Adalyn down but she clung to me. I rocked her again as I kicked off my shoes and sunk into the bed. Gabi finished pumping and put the milk away and then crawled into bed with us. My eyes were closing as Adalyn was congested and began to cough roughly again.

I tried to move her again when she only cried out in pain, "It's okay," I whispered into her ear and Gabi just gave me another concerned look. "It's okay," I said to her as well and she rubbed her back while trying to keep her mommy radar down. "Why is she always sick?" Gabi whispered quietly and I shrugged, "I wish I knew so I could stop it." She smiled and stroked her face with her hand as I slid down in the bed.

Gabi shut the lights off as she curled closer to Addy, I rubbed her back gently back and forth until my eyes closed with hers.

Friday, November 27th, 2026

Addy spent most of the night up coughing and crying as she was uncomfortable. She refused to take a drink of anything causing Gabi to become really concerned. I picked up my cell phone as I made the phone call. "Troy," our general manager spoke on the other line, "Hey, Tom," I paused, "Do you mind if we push the meeting back?"

"Are the kids okay?" Tom asked and I smiled, "Most of them are okay. Addy has had a rough night and we are needing to take her to the doctor. Too many kids to not assist Gabi, I can come in Monday if you guys are willing to meet with me."

"Of course, Troy, I would love to just sit and talk." I squeezed the counter top and I sighed, "Thank you, I will have Alex get in touch to set up a new time that works for everybody."

"Give Addy a good hug for me and tell Gabi I said hello." I thanked him as I hung up and I rubbed my eyes. Gabi was still asleep as I looked at Addy who was curled on the couch watching TV. I went over as I rubbed her back and she quickly found herself in my lap again. "Addy, do you want a drink of water?"

"No," she hacked up a lung and I sat her up as she took a deep breath. I picked up my phone and I called the pediatrician office. I went through the prompts until I was met with the nurse's line. I left a message detailing that Adalyn was refusing to drink, coughing, running a high fever, and only had one wet diaper. She let out a whine as I patted her butt gently trying to get her to maybe just fall back asleep.

My phone rang as I easily answered it, "Hello," I spoke, "Mr. Bolton?"

"This is him,"

"Hi, it's Victoria from Blue Valley Pediatrics,"

"Hi yes,"

"I got your message and ran it by the doctor. She wants you to bring in Adalyn as soon as possible. Especially with Grey in the house."

"Understood. I'll have her in the office in about thirty minutes." The nurse thanked me as I picked up Adalyn as I took her upstairs. I changed her into a fresh diaper, a new pair of leggings, with a little hoodie to keep her warm. She clung to me and I kissed her temple as I sent Gabi a text telling her that I was taking Addy to the doctor. Easing Adalyn into the car seat with her pacifier she cried reaching for me but I just kissed her forehead.

I shoved her socks onto her feet and a little hat on her head. Getting into my car I backed out as Alex texted me a new time to meet with the Kansas City organization. I exhaled knowing that I didn't have to worry about that one. They knew me. I didn't have to put up a front and be a different guy around them. Addy grew frustrated in the back seat as she was throwing a fit. I knew she didn't feel well because this wasn't Addy.

My car pulled into the parking lot and I was quick to hop out to grab her. She curled up against my chest again as she was trying to catch her breath. "I have you baby girl," I tossed her blanket over her as the chilled wind whipped around us on this Friday. I hurried inside where Addy was attached to me. "Mr. Bolton, they are waiting for you." I thanked them as I went around the corner. Victoria was waiting and she smiled at me, "How was Thanksgiving?"

"Good. She started to feel like this yesterday though." They took the blanket off of her and she cried again, "She is highly emotional," I warned and Victoria laughed, "A little soon?" I cracked a smile as they tried to pry Addy from me but her nails dug into my skin. "Daddy will be right here," Victoria told her and she cried trying to scratch her away from me. I finally got her fingers away from my skin but she screamed bloody murder.

My heart wrenched as another nurse came in to help as they ran a few tests but she only continued to scream. "I'm right here baby," I whispered into her ear as I stroked her head. Her brown eyes found mine and I gave her a smile as I stroked her face. "I love you baby girl," I whispered into her ear as they undressed her to get an accurate temperature along with a sample. "Has she had anymore wet diapers?" I shook my head no and Victoria nodded.

They finally let me pick up Adalyn as I held her tightly in my arms. "I got you sweet girl," I covered her with a blanket as I was grateful I took her and not Gabi. That was hard on my heart to hear her little screams. They left us alone while Addy hiccupped and her grip got tighter as I rocked her back and forth gently. A knock came at the door and Dr. Michelle walked through the door. Addy whimpered and I patted her back gently, "It's okay," I whispered into her ear and Dr. Michelle smiled.

"She came back positive for Type A flu," she said adjusting her glasses and I sighed, "That's what I was scared of." I said and Dr. Michelle smiled, "I am more concerned about her lack of wanting to drink and wet diapers." I nodded as she came over and I went to set her down but Dr. Michelle shook her head, "She is happy right now, she probably feels miserable. I just want to look at her eyes and skin." I nodded as I let her examine Addy in my arms but she slowly grew upset.

"She's pretty dehydrated already. I'm going to have you go to the hospital urgent care to receive fluids. We will prescribe Tamiflu for her but I would try to keep her separate from Grey." I nodded, "Gabi will struggle with that one." Michelle smiled, "She will, but this won't last too long. She will feel crummy for the next several days. Hopefully getting some fluids in her will help her to turn the corner." I thanked her as she sent us over to Urgent Care with orders.

It was quick to get admitted as they had me hold down Adalyn to get an IV into her. She screamed and tried to fight me but I only whispered in her ear over and over again. Once they finally got the IV inserted she turned to bury herself against me. It had been a long morning for her and she clearly didn't feel well. They pushed Tylenol as well and before too long she had passed out against me. My phone buzzed and I picked it up to see Gabi texting me asking for an update.

Flu. Getting IV fluids + medicine right now. Dr. Michelle didn't like how dehydrated she was so we are here. She's had a rough morning.

I leaned back with her in my arms and she woke up coughing again. I rubbed her back as she whipped her snot on me causing me to laugh, "If that makes you feel better." I said to her and she closed her eyes again as my phone buzzed again.

I would have gone with you. Is she doing okay? I feel awful.

A sigh filtered out of my mouth as I looked at her text. I didn't know if I should sugar coat it or not. Another text came through the phone.

Troy, what about your meeting with Kansas City? I can come take over.

I shook my head with a smile on my face.

I rescheduled with Kansas City. Tom was really understanding. He told me to take care of my girl. She is sleeping right now. I'll fill you in more when I get home but we need to keep Grey far away from Addy's germs. Dr. Michelle's request.

The Urgent care doctor walked in and checked her over but not much had changed besides her fever had decreased. "We're going to do one more bag of fluids and then we will release you." I thanked them as the nurse came to switch the bags. My phone buzzed again.

What are you saying? Do we need to take Grey somewhere? Addy?

I slid my phone over and I answered her text.

We'll talk about it when we get home. Just keep Grey upstairs for now.

They quickly finished the fluids for Addy stressing to make sure she drinks. I nodded hoping this was a step in the right direction. I bundled her back up as we went to our car and she was fast asleep. I tucked a blanket in around her when my phone buzzed again.

Monday?

Alex text stared back at me and I just sent yes back to him. I exhaled as I looked at Addy who coughed but remained sleeping. I pulled the car back into traffic as my head throbbed and I could only imagine it wasn't going away until I made my decision.

Monday, November 30th, 2026

Troy's POV

I poked my head into the twin's nursery where Gabi was rocking Adalyn. It had been a rough weekend with her and keeping Grey separated. She coughed and she whined but Gabi soothed her back to sleep easily. She looked up and caught my eye and smiled, "You look good," I looked down at my suit and tie. "Thanks," I told her and I went in and I kissed her forehead. Addy was holding Gabi's shirt and I smiled.

"Are you sure?" I asked her and she nodded, "Go. Your mom is here watching Grey for a little bit. We'll be fine." I just nodded, "I hope this brings clarity," she said to me and I nodded with a tiny smile, "I hope it does too."

I walked out as I picked up my cell phone and wallet stuffing them into my pocket. I debated about putting my World Series ring on but I decided against it. I went downstairs where my mom was snuggling with Grey and Makenli. "Good luck Troy," I smiled thanking my mom as I kissed Grey and Makenli. "Do you need baby snuggles before you go?" she asked and I nodded as I lifted Grey to rest against my chest.

It was hard to believe he was almost two months old. Like where in the hell has time gone already? He looked at me with his wide blue eyes and I smiled, "Mickey, be good for Grandma." She looked at me and I smiled looking at her. She giggled and I laughed myself as I handed Grey back to my mom. I grabbed my car keys as I went for the door and slowly made my way to my car. Alex was meeting me there as I was nervous.

I wasn't too nervous for the other ones but in my gut, I knew what I needed to do and what I wanted to do but I had to hope that they wanted to do the same thing. The drive to Kauffman was one that I could do in my sleep. I eased into a park spot as I waved at a worker. I walked into the offices and I went upstairs where I found Alex waiting for me. "How is Adalyn?" he asked and I smiled, "Okay. I think we are finally turning a corner."

"Good. I'm glad she is getting better. Are you ready?" I nodded as Alex approached the desk and I rubbed my hands together. Tom, our general manager along with our president, Robert, both came out as I shook both of their hands. "Troy, how is Addy?" Tom asked and I smiled feeling at home, "Good. She is turning the corner but it was a rough weekend. That is for sure."

"Gabi and the kids doing well?" I nodded, "Yes! Logan is back in school after taking off for Thanksgiving. Grey is getting all the attention from his sisters. It's been great." I said and Tom smiled, "I'm glad. I know how important family is too you." I swallowed on the lump in my throat as we all took a seat. "Alex has briefed us over the other contracts that you have been offered. We can all agree that you are an ace of all aces. You rise to high occasions and work harder than anybody we know. You are a true ace in this world Troy,"

I almost wanted Tom to stop.

I almost just wanted to leave.

I stopped.

I listened.

Yet, my eyes kept turning to the field in the windows. The big screen off, the field covered with a tarp, and the stadium quiet. I blinked and all I could picture was the fans cheering loudly, my name being called, and nothing but happiness. From the first pitch, I threw in 2014 to the end of the season. That's all I could see. I looked at Tom and Robert as we all talked. I was responding when I needed to respond and I didn't have any outbursts like I did in Boston.

"I hope we'll be in touch soon," Tom said reaching across the table and I reached across back and I shook his hand. "Thank you, Tom, for everything." I said to him and he smiled, "No, Thank you Troy." I left the building with Alex and we stopped not too far outside the stadium near our cars. "What are you thinking? You were awful quiet."

I pressed my lips together, "Can you call a press conference?" I asked him and he looked at me, "Have you made your choice?" he asked and I nodded, "Yea, I have. I came here for one thing and to hear them out."

"So, what is it?" he asked me and I told him.

Friday, December 4th, 2026

Troy's POV

My eyes took in the crowd around me as I saw Gabi sitting with Grey in her lap as she was dressed in a pair of dark jeans with a cute top and a jacket. Grey was in a grey little sleeper as Makenli and Adalyn were in dresses sitting on my parent's lap. Alex was talking to everybody as we were the ones to call the press conference as nobody but Alex, Gabi, and I knew my decision. Gabi and I had talked about it thoroughly together.

She asked me countless times if I was 100% sure and I was.

Cameras began to roll as Alex started the press conference and introduced me to the media. He stepped away and I looked down at my suit and I looked back up at the crowd. "Thank you everybody for attending. Most people are probably interested in my choice that I have made and I figured I would just sit down and explain how I got to where I got." My eyes flickered to the Boston GM, Tampa, Houston, and Tom standing not too far off.

"I visited three different cities right after our World Series victory. Boston, Tampa, and Houston. All of them were fantastic. The GM's were nothing but kind and welcoming to accepting my family into their lives. As everybody knows, I don't hide my family. They are the loves of my life. My wife Gabi who has cheered me on for over fourteen years. The perfect woman who is taking a step back from her career to let me finish mine. To raise our four beautiful kids. Logan who made me a dad who couldn't be here today because she's in school. Sorry Lolo," the crowd laughed as I smiled. "Makenli and Adalyn who came at a time that we really needed them. To perfect girls who call me dad. Finally, my son Grey. He was a surprise but such an exciting surprise. Those are the people that I am constantly trying to impress. Who I am constantly trying to make happy."

My eyes flickered from camera to camera. "My life is about them. It's not about me. Yet, my wife told me that I just needed to do what I need to do. I was in a rut. I have been with Kansas City since they drafted me and that is a blessing within. I wasn't sure if Kansas City was where I wanted to continue my baseball career because I had done it all here. I helped build this program, we've won championships, and built a legacy. There is nothing but amazing memories in Kauffman Stadium. I was confused on what my next step was so I decided to do free agency. I went from place to place and I listened. I talked about my family. I told them what was important to me and what I needed from them."

I took a deep breath, "Yet, after every single meeting I would stop and I would imagine where I was with my kids. With my wife. See, I made a promise to myself way back in high school when I was getting drafted to stay in pretty much one place because as most of you know, Gabi's dad is Alex Montez, my agent, and they moved around a lot. Gabi wanted stability. To have her kids grow up in one home. One city. One school district. That's what she wanted and I promised that I would try my hardest to give that to her. So, when my rut happened she said, it's time for you to take care of you. It's time for you to put yourself first. We will follow you and love you." I paused smiling, "So I took that into every meeting."

The room was deadly silent as I continued, "I imagine myself sitting in each dugout. I imagine myself standing on the mound and listening to the crowd. I imagine myself seeing my kids in the stands and running around on the field. Following me to different cities to cheer me on. I imagine where my kids would be the happiest and where Gabi will be able to be a mom to them. Yet, I couldn't picture us in Houston. I loved the city. I loved the park but it just didn't feel right. It made me nervous for the next city because it is truly one of my favorites, Gabi too. Boston. Gabi loves Boston, I love Boston so in my mind I was truly considering Boston until I sat there. I sat there and couldn't picture my family there. I couldn't picture any of it. It was just blank."

"What I imagine is something more than a ballpark. I imagine a family that has grown beyond my wife and kids. It's a city. I always preach how important my family is too me and I was forgetting one family that is truly the biggest supporters I have ever had. That's Kansas City. They have been there for 12 years now. Rooting me on. Cheering for me. I imagine those big parades and me standing on the mound with them cheering as we celebrate another victory. The sheer excitement of a Friday night baseball game under the fireworks." My eyes glanced towards the back of the room as Boston and Houston had both left already. Tom was grinning from ear to ear.

"I imagine my kids running around in the clubhouse like they already do because they are accepted here. I imagine everything that I love about Kauffman Stadium, about the head office, and about everything under the sun. After I met with the other three clubs I came to Tom and we talked. I couldn't focus though. I was too busy looking at Kauffman Stadium but my choice came before our meeting even started. We were supposed to meet on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Yet, my daughter Adalyn came down with the flu. I called him and I asked him if we could push it back and he told me to do what's best for my family."

"So, I did. We pushed the meeting to Monday and the first thing he asked me was how is Adalyn? How is my wife and three other kids? He knows how important family is too me. So that's how this choice became easy. I thought about my whole family. I thought about my wife. My kids. The coaches. The office. I thought about the fans and Kansas City in general. I made the easiest decision of my life after truly thinking about it and I will continue to play for the Kansas City Royals. I will continue to raise my family here. I will continue to be a role model for this city and I truly cannot wait."

My eyes looked over at Gabi who had tears in her eyes but she couldn't be prouder. I swallowed on the lump in my throat as the press began to ask a thousand questions as Tom and Robert came up with my contract and my jersey. I slipped it on over my shoulders and my KC hat onto my head as I easily printed my name on the line. I shook hands on both sides of me as the cameras still continued to click away. Finally, they were able to ask questions.

"Troy, you described why you chose Kansas City and described it as a family. As a representative of Kansas City from our local newspaper we can't seem to thank you enough for calling us family. You have made the Royals our family. You made this team a family to the city. A team we could recite the names year after year. We all grew attached and we are lucky to have such an Ace in our program who values things more than money, playing time, and politics of the sport. You are one of a kind in this sport and with that, we thank you." I couldn't stop the stupid grin on my face.

"I can't thank this city enough for giving me the job that I truly love the most."

The presser ended shortly after and I couldn't resist anymore as I went over and I grabbed Gabi in a tight hug. "Thank you," I whispered into her ear and she smiled reaching up to touch my face, "No, thank you Troy." I smiled kissing her as Mickey and Adalyn were climbing my legs as I picked both of them up and hugged on them. Gabi held Grey tightly in her arms and I smiled looking at her. I was happy right here and there is nothing better than that.

Saturday, December 5th, 2026

Gabi's POV

I peeked up from my coffee to see Troy laughing on the floor with the twins playing with him. Logan was laying on the couch watching a TV show while Grey was napping. I smiled as Troy was ten times more relaxed after the press conference yesterday. My eyes looked down at the contract on the kitchen counter and I still couldn't quite believe it.

8 years, 200 million.

Kansas City surely out did themselves this time around and paid Troy money that he was owed a long time ago. When he told me his fear of taking the money and not being good enough, I reminded him all of the times that he was outstanding and paid little to nothing for what he did. He looked at me and told me that he couldn't imagine himself anywhere but right here. That the Royals blue was the only blue he ever wanted to wear.

His famous no-trade clause was back in full force and he was happy. I finally saw my husband again after a hard year of trying to figure out what he needed. People were raving left and right about how he approached his new contract. Kansas City was falling even more love with him but it was true. They were our family. No matter how ugly things got, they were always there. Troy laughed and I looked up again as the newspaper had landed outside with a picture of Troy on the cover.

He was slipping his jersey on with a big smile as the headliner caught my eye.

A True Ace

Walking into the living room I sat down and Troy smiled, "You good?" he asked me and I smiled, "I'm great. I love you." He grinned, "I love you too." He reached up to kiss me and I wrapped my arms around his neck. I couldn't wait to see where these next eight years took us. I was so excited and happy that our family was staying together. The kids quickly climbed up on us and I laughed as Logan tried to tickle me.

Troy quickly helped her causing me to laugh louder.

Yes, I am absolutely fantastic.

…That's a wrap! I really hope you all enjoyed this story! It was truly a good one about growing their family and becoming a tight unit. I love it! I cannot wait to start writing Closer and sharing that with you guys! It will be a few months probably but it is going to get started. I'm going to focus on Coach's Daughter for a bit before publishing the LAST story to this series. I cannot wait to share!

Please let me know your thoughts and love towards this story! Share your favorite moments! Thank you for sticking through till this point!

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J