Page 60 of Stepping Up to the Plate

Me

Good luck at your game tonight. I’ll be cheering you on from the couch. I can’t wait until you’re back home.

Me

I think I’m going to crash early tonight. It’s been kind of a crazy day. Call me in the morning?

Brady Bear

Thanks., I’ll give you a call tomorrow morning.

Brady isn’t the most talkative man in the world over text, but he usually has a little more to say than that. He had a long day yesterday. He’s probably tired. I feel a little guilty for not telling him about the court date today, but I wanted to do this on my own. I know if I told him he would have supported me as best he could, but I didn’t want to use him as a crutch. I needed to prove to myself that I could handle this on my own.

I’m afraid he’s going to be pissed when he finds out but that is future Lola’s problem. Right now, I am on cloud nine and nothing is bringing me down.

* * *

The drive back from St. Louis was long but cathartic. I blasted Taylor Swift the entire way and jammed out with a lightness I haven’t experienced in years. I didn’t think I would be physically affected by being granted the divorce, but it’s as if a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. Like the thing that has been trying to drag me down for months was suddenly cut off my ankle and I am free to float.

I go out with Tiffany, Carina, and Charlie on Tuesday to celebrate and watch the last game of the away series. We go a little too hard and I end up missing a call from Brady because I’m passed out in my bed. That’s what happens when your friends encourage people to buy you “newly divorced” shots. RIP My liver. But also, worth it.

I wake up feeling how I imagine a human cannonball does the day after his stunt. I never see where those guys land, but I can’t imagine it is soft. I force myself into the shower and come out somewhat less comatose. I snag a glass of water, pre-made coffee because the fancy stuff is too hard right now, and one of the emergency Pop-Tarts I keep here for Brady.

Peeking at my phone, I groan at all the missed messages from last night and this morning. The first thread I click on is my group chat with the girls.

12:03 AM

Tiff

Posting this here for posterity [video attached of Lola taking a boob shot from Carina]

Carebear

Ha ha ha. I am so sending it to Robby. Do you think his jealousy will extend to my cousin?

Tiff

I doubt it, but I know you enjoy poking the bear. It doesn’t hurt to try.

Carebear

You are too right. This road trip has been way too long. Mama needs some attention.

1:16 AM

Carebear

Bunny, where are you? There is another fine gentleman here ready to buy you a drink.

Me

I had to peeeeee! My bladder is bursting with liquor!

Tiff

Hurry back before Meatball ends up taking it instead.

1:48 AM

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