Page 62 of Hard Hat Hottie

As the next player comes up to bat, I feel my heart rate pick up. It’s a damn little league game. You’d think I was watching the Red Sox. They’ve been down by two runs all game. Taking in the crowd, I notice I’m not the only one nervous, as Rob is pacing back and forth by the fence. The sight makes me chuckle.

Crack! Holy Shit. That kid’s got some arm on him.

The parents are all on their feet, even Jimmy. Alec runs like he’s being chased by bears, with Justin hot on his trail. The ball comes flying toward the pitcher from the outfield, just as Justin crosses home plate. I’m not sure the last kid will make it home, but at least they’re tied up.

Alec and Justin haven’t begun celebrating, their attention focused on their teammate. All of the boys are screaming for him to run. As the pitcher lets go of the ball, its trajectory bound for the catcher, the last player slides across home plate and the place erupts in hoots and hollers. Justin turns to see his dad on his feet, clapping for them, and you would’ve thought someone had handed him the Commissioner’s Trophy.

I’m thrilled I was here to enjoy their game. Win or lose. But sharing in this moment is priceless.

“Did you see that?” Alec shouts as he approaches, his little bat bag slung over one shoulder.Hell, this kid is cute.Is this what Matt and I looked like back in the day? I definitely don’t recall any games that ended like this one.

“Yeah, buddy. We loved every second of it.” Harlow pulls him in for a side hug.

“You were amazing out there,” Rob adds.

“And that was a smooth bunt, Justin. I would’ve never thought to do that!” Jimmy exclaims. I swear Justin just grew two inches taller at the compliment.

“Can we all go to Harry’s place and celebrate?”

Oh, damn.

“It’s okay, sport. I’m sure your dads have?—”

“Sounds good to me.”

“I’m in.”

Well, all right then.

“Alec. You can’t just volunteer Harry’s place without asking first.”

“I did ask.”

I chuckle. He’s not wrong. “It’s okay. I’m not sure what’s at the house to eat or drink, but you’re welcome to come by.”

“I’ll stop and pick up some drinks and snacks,” Jimmy says, surprising me.

“Okay, we’ll see you there.”

Harlow and I head toward the car. There’s a pep in my step, but she seems distant. “You okay?”

“You’re so good to us. I don’t want the boys… well, all four of them, wearing out our welcome.”

I stop, turning to make sure I have her full attention. “Harlow, they aren’t. Promise. I can say no. So long as my mother isn’t inconvenienced, and I get to play naked Twister with you after they leave, I’m good.”

Her face brightens.

“Let’s go.”

The boys and their dads arrive at the house about an hour later. Luckily, Harlow had her beach bag in the car so they could change into different clothes. While Alec would’ve been fine swimming in his birthday suit, I have a feeling his more reserved brother wouldn’t.

We spend an hour or so around the pool when Alec asks, “Can we make the birdhouses now?”

I’d nearly forgotten. Looking at my watch, I consider the time. These won’t take an hour. The sides of the birdhouses are already cut to size. They only need wood glue, nails, and a paint job.

“Sure, if it’s okay with your dads.” I’m surprised the two have joined us at the outdoor kitchen as the boys swim, versus electing to watch sports in the den.

“Fine by me,” Rob answers.

---