Page 113 of Unexpected Kisses

“You’re welcome. I’m glad you love him.”

We chat quietly with Lisa and Hayley, and AJ tells them about the dinner service we ordered for them for the next two months so they don’t need to worry about cooking dinner.

“Thanks for such an awesome gift.” Hayley climbs from Lisa’s bed to hug AJ and when they’ve finished, I pass him the baby, so I can hug her too. “That’ll be one less thing we need to worry about.”

We chat for a while longer, AJ hogging the baby, and when Braden starts fussing, Lisa tells us it’s time for his next feeding, so we take our cue to leave.

“All right, Colton. You wanna give Braden a hug? It’s time for us to go.” We had already made plans with Colton that he’d stay with us for a few days when the baby was born, and he was excited about it. He’s been asking when it’s going to happen for weeks.

“I don’t wanna leave Braden. I’m s’posed to look after him.” AJ glances at me. This is new. He’s always eager to spend time with us. Lisa and Hayley weren’t sure how he’d respond to the new baby. They were worried he’d be jealous or feel left out. We thought if he stayed with us for a day or two, we could make a fuss over him while the girls settle their new addition at home. I don’t think any of us predicted that Colton would be so infatuated and protective of his new sibling. It’s endearing.

AJ crouches down so he’s at Colton’s level. “I understand. But Aunty Sarah and I were hoping you’d hang out with us for a little while.” He glances up at his sister. “We’ll only be a little while and then we’ll bring you back to Braden.”

Hayley nods, recognizing Colton’s need to stay close. “Uncle AJ and Aunty Sarah have a surprise for you, then they’ll bring you back to the hospital.”

His eyes widen. “A surprise?”

I nod. “Yep. It’s really cool, too. I think you’ll love it.”

He finally relents and we head in the direction of AJ’s climbing gym. This will be his first time back at the gym since his accident. When we arrive, Theo and Austin are already waiting out front for us. Theo offered to meet us here so we didn’t have to drive to the opposite side of town to pick up Austin.

The boys greet each other like they’re best buddies and Colton excitedly shares how he’s now a big brother.

Austin listens carefully. “You’re lucky he’s a boy. Little sisters can be a bit annoying sometimes.” It’s the first time I’ve ever heard him say anything negative about Kenny. “They talk a lot and they always wanna hug you. Even when you’re in the middle of jumping on the trampoline.” He rolls his eyes and we all laugh. He’s not wrong there, Kenny’s always very affectionate.

Theo rests his hand on Austin’s shoulder. “If she annoys you, just tell her to stop.”

Austin shrugs. “It’s okay. I love her mostly and her hugs are pretty good.” Theo catches my eyes, raising his eyebrows.

When we step inside the gym, Colton and Austin’s eyes almost pop out of their heads. They turn this way and that, taking in the array of climbing walls, but AJ guides them straight to a section designed especially for kids.

“Can I climb?” Colton asks, his voice full of excitement.

“Absolutely. That’s why we’re here.”

“This is the best,” Austin chirps.

“It really is. I love hanging out here. So let’s do some climbing.” AJ claps his hands together and we make our way over to two empty spaces on the beginner’s wall.

The boys cheer and AJ sets them up, explaining everything with just enough detail. Colton has a fairly good idea about the holds because of his climbing wall, but he’s never used a rope before. Theo and I listen closely so we can help. Standing side by side, AJ and Theo support the boys as they climb the wall, then come back down to them only to do it all over again.

Over the course of the afternoon, the boys’ skills and speed increase as well as their confidence. I love that AJ wanted to include Austin. I love watching him interact with the boys as he patiently coaxes and encourages them every step of the way. He’s going to be such a great dad. The afternoon flies by, and the boys are beginning to look a little tired.

“Uncle AJ, I wanna see you climb.”

“Yeah, show us how you climb,” Colton encourages.

“Go on. I’d love to see you in action.” I wink at him. I know he’s a little nervous since he’s only had two physiotherapy appointments so far, but this place is completely safe. It would be good for him.

I can see the internal argument he’s having with himself but he finally agrees. The boys cheer as we move to the climbing area for adults. The array of colored holds scattered across the walls is mind-boggling. It’s incredible to think that a little piece of plastic can support an adult. My eyes scan the numerous climbers in various positions up the wall. There’s even a woman hanging upside down from the roof. My heart pounds as I watch her go for her next hold, and I blow out a relieved breath when she makes it successfully.

“Would you mind belaying for me? I’ll only do a couple of quick climbs, then we’ll get out of here.”

“You would trust me to do that for you?”

He pauses and scans my face. “Of course. I trust you to be the mother of my child.” He cups my small bump. “That’s the most trust I could put in anyone, Cupcake.” And there goes my heart, melting in a puddle at my feet. He slides his fingers through my hair and draws my face closer to his. “You’re the person I trust with my heart and soul. Of course, I trust you with this.” He swipes his lips across mine.

“What is it with the grownups always kissing?” Austin moans, breaking the moment and making us giggle.

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