ARE BY far every mother's worst nightmare. There's something about a ball flying toward your child that makes you want to stick them in a bubble. However, the second Brenna mentioned wanting to do something involving a sport, Colby was on it. He rented out the entire place so we didn't have any wait or time limits.
I stand behind the fence and watch Colby teach Brenna where to stand and how to hold the bat. She's played t-ball since last year, but at least that ball is stationary. Even at the slowest setting, this whole thing is giving me anxiety.
Colby stands behind her and helps guide her to hit the first couple. Then, he steps back to let her do a few on her own. The proud smile on his face is enough to melt even me, and I don't allow myself to feel much toward him. It's safer that way.
“This is too easy,” Brenna whines. “I want it faster.”
Before either of us can stop her, she reaches up and turns the dial to 60mph pitches.
“No, Brenna!” I shriek as a ball comes flying out right at her.
Colby steps in front of her and takes a baseball right to the back as he shields her from it. He tries to mask his pain, but I can see it all over his face. He hits the kill switch and leads Brenna out of the cage.
“Bren, Colby told you not to touch that,” I scold her. “That ball could have killed you if it hit your head, and now Colby’s hurt.”
She looks at Colby, crestfallen. “I'm sorry.”
I glance over at my ex, who is doing what he can to rub the spot on his back, all while still trying to look like a tough guy. Figures.
“Are you okay?”
He plays it off like he didn't just get hit with a fast ball. “Me? I'm fine. Why wouldn't I be?”
I sigh and smack his hand away, massaging the tense muscle. “Thank you, for protecting her like that.”
Glancing over his shoulder at me, he smiles softly. “I'll always protect her.”
“Can we go again? I promise I won't touch anything this time.”
Colby shakes his head before I can say no. “Sorry, B. I think your mom was right when she said you're too young for this.”
Her arms cross over her chest, but before she can say anything, Colby stops her.
“I have a better idea though.” He turns to me. “Can you meet me at my place?”
I nod, not knowing what he's up to but unwilling to tell him no after he took a ball to the back for her.
BY THE TIME WE get to Colby's, there is a truck in the driveway and three men walking out from the backyard. I watch as Colby gets out and hands them what I assume is a tip, and they all climb back into the truck and leave. He comes over to help me get Brenna out of the car, all while sporting an excited grin on his face.
“What did you do?” I ask. “Who were those guys?”
He pulls Brenna into his arms and smirks. “You'll see.”
Walking through the house, Colby keeps his hand firmly placed over Brenna's eyes so she can't see. However, the second we get to the back door, I spot the surprise. It's a massive bounce house that rivals the size of the house, and I can only imagine how excited Brenna is going to be.
We step out into the yard, and I close the door behind us.
“All right, B. You ready?” Colby asks her.
She nods hurriedly, and the second he removes his hand from her eyes, she lets out an ear-piercing shriek. She squirms in his arms until he puts her down and immediately darts toward the bounce house.
“Excuse me, little miss,” I get her attention. “What do you say?”
She smiles and runs back toward us. Colby bends down just in time for her to wrap her arms around his neck. She squeezes him tightly, and I watch as he hugs her back.
“Thank you, Colby. You're the bestest ever.”
“You're welcome, little bug.”
He releases her so she can go jump, but instead of standing, he sits on the ground for a second. I chuckle as I look down at him.
“You okay?” I question, already knowing the answer.
Nodding, he rubs his chin. “Just a little melted, that's all.”
The two of us watch Brenna in silence, until I can't hold back anymore. “You know, that's an awfully big bounce house for such a little girl. So much