What if Tim and Lucy both had kids

Part 6

The next morning, the alarm clock jolted Tim awake, signaling the start of another busy day. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes, he quickly got out of bed and began to prepare for the day ahead. With Josy's volleyball game scheduled for 8:30 AM, they needed to be at the gym by 7:45 AM.
After making sure everything was in order, Tim made his way to Josy's room. Quietly pushing the door open, he stepped inside, his gaze falling upon his sleeping daughter. With a soft smile, he approached her bedside.
Tim gently shook Josy's shoulder to rouse her from her slumber.
Tim- Hey, Jo. It's time to wake up, sweetheart.
Josy stirred, blinking sleepily as she gradually became aware of her surroundings. Rubbing her eyes, she sat up in bed, a yawn escaping her lips.
Josy- Morning, Dad. What time is it?
Tim checked his watch before turning back to Josy with a reassuring smile.
Tim- It's almost 6:30. We need to leave by 7:15.
Josy groaned slightly, not quite ready to embrace the early morning wake-up call.
Josy- It's so early...
Tim chuckled softly, understanding Josy's reluctance to rise and shine at such an early hour. After all, he had learned how to navigate these sleepy mornings over the years.
Tim- I know. It's early, but it'll be worth it once we're there cheering you on during the game. Plus, we'll grab a drink on the way, so that should help wake you up.
He offered her an encouraging smile, hoping to lift her spirits despite the early hour.
Tim- Come on, let's get you ready. I'll make some pancakes to help kickstart your day. How does that sound?
Josy's expression brightened at the mention of pancakes, a hint of excitement replacing her earlier grogginess.
Josy- Pancakes? Okay, I'm up.
Tim smiled at Josy's response, glad that the mention of pancakes had perked her up a bit. With a sense of purpose, he got to work in the kitchen, flipping pancakes and preparing a hearty breakfast to fuel them for the busy day ahead.
Meanwhile, Josy dragged herself out of bed and began to get ready for the day. She quickly got dressed in her volleyball uniform and packed her bag with all the essentials for the game.
As the scent of freshly cooked pancakes filled the air, Josy emerged from her room, her spirits lifted by the promise of a delicious breakfast.
Josy- Smells amazing, Dad!
Tim grinned at her enthusiasm, glad to see her in better spirits.
Tim- Thanks! Dig in, and then we'll clean up and hit the road.
They enjoyed their breakfast together, chatting and laughing as they ate. Once they finished, they worked together to quickly clean up the kitchen before grabbing their things and heading out the door.
Tim and Josy stepped into the familiar ambiance of Starbucks, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the sound of baristas preparing drinks. Tim ordered his usual coffee while Josy picked out her favorite beverage, and they settled into their ritual of pre-game refreshments.
With their drinks in hand, Tim and Josy made their way to the gym. Tim took a seat among the parents of Josy's team, exchanging friendly nods and greetings with the familiar faces around him. Most of the parents were Moms, and they chatted amiably as they waited for the game to begin.
As the match got underway, Tim's attention was solely focused on the court, where Josy and her teammates showcased their skills with every serve, dig, and spike. The game was intense, with both teams putting up a fierce fight for every point.
Amidst the cheering and applause from the stands, Tim felt a surge of pride watching his daughter on the court. Despite the competitive atmosphere, the camaraderie among the parents was palpable as they rallied behind their daughters.
When the final whistle blew, signaling the end of the game, Tim walked down from the stands to congratulate Josy. He enveloped her in a proud hug, a wide grin on his face.
Tim- You were fantastic out there.
Josy beamed up at her dad, her eyes sparkling with excitement and adrenaline from the game.
Josy- Thanks.
Together, they joined the rest of the team and their families, celebrating the victory and the hard-fought game. The parents exchanged congratulations and high-fives, proud of their daughters' performance on the court.
As the excitement began to wind down, the girls headed to the locker room to freshen up before heading home. Tim and the other parents lingered outside, chatting amiably and reliving the highlights of the game.
Josy was the first to walk out of the locker room, ready to head home.
After bidding farewell to the other parents, Tim and Josy made their way back to the car, still buzzing with excitement from the game.
Tim- Why are you always the first one out of the locker room?
Josy- I don't shower after the games or practice like most of the other girls do.
Tim- Why not?
Josy- I don't like it. I prefer to shower at home. It's just my thing, I guess. Plus, I like having my privacy.
Tim nodded in understanding as Josy explained her preference for freshening up at home. He couldn't help but relate to her desire for privacy.
Tim- I get it. When I was your age and played football, there were a bunch of us teens, and, well, let's just say some weird stuff happened in those locker rooms.
Josy raised an eyebrow, intrigued by her dad's implication.
Josy- Weird stuff?
Tim chuckled, recalling some of the antics from his teenage years.
Tim- Yeah, you know, typical teenage shenanigans. Nothing too serious, but it definitely made me think twice about hanging around too long after practice.
Josy laughed, imagining her dad as a teenager getting into mischief with his teammates.
As Tim and Josy drove home, the excitement from the game still lingered in the air. Josy leaned back in her seat, reflecting on the match, while Tim hummed along to the radio, occasionally stealing glances at his daughter with a proud smile.
Once they arrived home, Josy headed straight to her bathroom to take a shower, while Tim decided to whip up a comforting and hearty meal for them.
With a sense of purpose, Tim headed to the kitchen, ready to get cooking. He started by washing and chopping an assortment of colorful vegetables. Next, he seasoned some boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a blend of herbs and spices, ensuring they would be flavorful and juicy when cooked.
While the chicken marinated, Tim set a pot of water to boil for the rice.
As the rice cooked, he preheated a pan over medium heat and drizzled it with a little olive oil. Once the pan was hot, he added the seasoned chicken breasts, sizzling as they hit the pan. Tim cooked the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, ensuring it was tender and juicy.
In another pan, Tim sautéed the chopped vegetables until they were tender-crisp, their vibrant colors brightening the kitchen.
With everything cooked to perfection, Tim plated the dish with a generous serving of rice, topped with the colorful sautéed vegetables and slices of succulent chicken breast. The aroma wafted through the kitchen, enticing Josy as she set the table with anticipation.
As Tim finished plating the dish, the savory aroma filled the kitchen, inviting Josy out of the bathroom where she had just finished her shower. She emerged wearing comfortable sweatpants, one of her dad's oversized hoodies, and a towel wrapped around her head.
Josy's eyes lit up as she caught a whiff of the delicious meal her dad had prepared, a wide smile spreading across her face.
Josy- That smells amazing!
Tim turned to his daughter, returning her smile with one of his own.
Tim- Thanks, sweetie! I thought we could use a hearty meal after such an exciting game.
Josy eagerly took a seat at the table, her stomach grumbling in anticipation. As she removed the towel from her head and settled in, Tim brought over the steaming plates, placing one in front of her.
With a grateful nod, Josy eagerly picked up her fork, ready to savor every flavorful bite of the comforting meal her dad had prepared.
As Tim and Josy sat at the table enjoying their lunch, the savory meal continued to bring warmth and comfort to the end of their busy morning.
Josy- This is good.
Tim- Thanks, Josy. I'm glad you like it.
They ate in companionable silence for a while, each lost in their thoughts. After a few moments, Tim looked up at his daughter.
Tim- So, what did you think about the game? Anything you think you could improve on?
Josy took a thoughtful bite, considering her performance.
Josy- I think my serves were pretty strong, but I could definitely work on my spikes. I feel like I hesitated a bit too much and I definitely need to work on my jumping power.
Tim- Well, from where I was sitting, you looked great out there. But it's good that you're always looking to improve. That's how you get better.
Josy nodded, appreciating her dad's encouragement.
They finished their meal, enjoying the comforting atmosphere of their home. After lunch, they worked together to clean up the kitchen, their teamwork making quick work of the task.
As they settled in the living room, Josy sprawled out on the couch with a contented sigh. Tim joined her, flipping through the channels on the TV until they found a movie they both wanted to watch. They spent the early afternoon relaxing, laughing at the funny scenes and discussing the plot.
As the movie played on, Josy started to feel the morning's exertion catching up with her. Her eyelids grew heavy, and she gradually drifted off to sleep. Tim noticed her head nodding forward and her breathing becoming deeper and more rhythmic. He smiled softly, watching her for a moment.
Without disturbing her, Tim quietly reached for his phone on the coffee table. This had been a tradition ever since Josy was a toddler, falling asleep in the most random places. He couldn't resist capturing these peaceful moments. Gently, he took a picture of Josy, her face serene and relaxed in sleep, curled up on the couch.
Tim (softly, to himself)- Just like when you were little.
He put his phone away and grabbed a cozy blanket from the nearby chair. Tim carefully draped it over Josy, making sure she was comfortable. He sat back and continued to watch the movie, occasionally glancing at his daughter. A couple of hours passed, and Tim decided to stretch his legs. He quietly got up from the couch, taking care not to wake Josy, and headed to the kitchen to make himself a cup of coffee. The familiar sound of the coffee machine was a comforting background noise.
While waiting for his coffee, Tim thought about the past few weeks and how proud he was of Josy's dedication to her sport and schoolwork. He knew the balance wasn't always easy, and he admired her commitment.
With his coffee in hand, Tim returned to the living room and sat back down on the couch. He looked at Josy, still peacefully asleep, and felt a wave of emotion. Being a single parent had its challenges, but moments like these made it all worthwhile.
As the movie ended and the credits rolled, Tim gently nudged Josy, not wanting her to sleep too long and mess up her nighttime rest.
Tim (softly)- Hey, sleepyhead, the movie's over.
Josy stirred, slowly waking up, her eyes blinking against the light. She groaned softly, turning over to face the back of the couch.
Josy- (grumbling) Why'd you wake me up? I was so comfortable.
Tim chuckled softly, understanding her moody response.
Tim- Sorry, Jo. I didn't want you to sleep too long and have trouble falling asleep tonight.
Josy sat up, rubbing her eyes and still looking half-asleep.
Josy- I was having such a nice dream.
Tim- I'm sorry, sweetie. But you'll thank me later when you're not lying wide awake in bed tonight.
Josy sighed, her irritation slowly fading as she woke up more fully.
Josy- It should be illegal to wake up people that are asleep.
Tim chuckled at Josy's half-joking complaint.
Tim- It probably should be, but we've got some plans. Remember, we're meeting Theo and Lucy at the tennis court. And I'm gonna kick his ass.
Josy- I think he'll kick your ass.
Tim raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise.
Tim- Is that so? Well, we'll see about that. I've got a few tricks up my sleeve.
Josy laughed, her mood brightening even more.
Josy- This I gotta see. Just don't embarrass yourself too much, okay?
Tim- No promises. Let's get ready and head out. We've got a game to play.
Josy nodded and got off the couch, feeling more awake now. She headed to her room to change into something more suitable for the tennis court.
Once Josy was ready, they grabbed their things and headed out the door. The drive to the tennis court was filled with playful banter and laughter, both of them looking forward to the friendly competition.
When they arrived at the tennis court, they saw Theo and Lucy waiting for them, Theo already warming up.
Tim- Wow, you're really taking this seriously, huh? Warm-ups and all?
Theo grinned, not missing a beat.
Theo- Hey, I'm just making sure I don't get hurt out here. You might want to do the same.
Tim chuckled and gave Theo a nod.
Tim- You're right.
As Theo finished his warm-up routine, Tim started his own, going through a series of stretches and light jogging to get his muscles ready. Josy and Lucy chatted on the sidelines, occasionally cheering them on.
Lucy- Looks like they're both ready to go.
Josy- This is going to be interesting. Dad's pretty competitive, but Theo got skills.
Once Tim felt adequately warmed up, he joined Theo on the court.
Theo- You get to choose sides, and I'll get the first serve.
Tim- Sounds good to me.
They took their positions, with Tim choosing the side that seemed to have the least sun glare. Theo bounced the ball a few times, then served it with a smooth, practiced motion.
The game began, and it quickly became evident that Theo was holding back, letting Tim win the first couple of points. Tim started to get a bit more confident, thinking he might have a chance.
Tim- Not bad for an old man, huh?
Theo smiled, a hint of mischief in his eyes.
Theo- Not bad at all. Let's see how you handle this.
Theo decided it was time to turn things up a notch. His serves became faster and more precise, each hit resonating with a practiced ease. His returns were swift, forcing Tim to scramble across the court to keep up.
Tim- (breathless) Alright, Theo, showing your true colors now?
Theo just laughed, keeping the pace up. He wasn't playing at his full potential. The change was immediate. Points that Tim had easily won earlier were now fiercely contested. Theo's shots were strategic, aiming for corners and making Tim work for every return.
The shift in momentum was clear. Tim found himself struggling to return Theo's serves, the ball often flying past him before he could react. Despite his best efforts, Tim watched as Theo racked up points, steadily closing the gap, pulling ahead and winning the match.
Tim- (grinning, slightly out of breath) Well, that was quick.
Theo walked over, offering a friendly handshake.
Theo- Good game. You did great out there.
Tim- Thanks, Theo. You too.
They both walked over to the benches where the girls were waiting. They shared some quick words of congratulations before packing up their gear. As they all started walking towards their cars, Josy and Theo walked ahead, chatting. Lucy and Tim walked behind them.
Lucy- (patting Tim's back) You did okay out there, Tim.
Tim- He kicked my ass, Luce. I was hoping I'd have at least a chance to score some more points.
Lucy- Yeah, about that, you know he was holding back, right?
Tim- (surprised) Holding back? You mean, he wasn't playing at full strength after the shift?
Lucy- (smiling) Nope.
Tim- You're lying.
Lucy- I'm not.
Tim- I don't believe you.
Lucy- Well, let's find out. Theo!
Theo turned around, curious.
Theo- Yeah?
Lucy- I have a question for you, but you have to promise to tell the truth.
Theo hesitated, sensing something was up.
Theo- What's the question?
Lucy- You have to promise to tell the truth first.
Theo- I don't know, I'd rather not.
Tim- Come on. I promise it's nothing personal or something like that.
Theo glanced at Lucy, then back at Tim, and finally sighed.
Theo- Alright, fine. I promise to tell the truth, if I decide to answer the question.
Lucy- Were you holding back during the match with Tim?
Theo hesitated, then looked Tim in the eyes.
Theo- Well, yeah, I had to. I couldn't just destroy you like that, so I took the opportunity and played with my left hand only.
Tim- (laughing) Seriously? I thought I had a chance there for a moment!
Lucy- See, I told you.
Tim- Alright, you got me.
Theo- So, Mom, where do you want to eat? It's on the loser, and Tim lost.
Lucy- (smiling) Oh, I think I'm in the mood for some Italian. How about that little place downtown?
Tim- Sounds good to me. Let's go celebrate my defeat in style.
Josy- (laughing) You mean drown your loss in pasta?
Tim- Exactly.
They all piled into their cars, the friendly banter continuing as they made their way home first to freshen up a little before meeting at the Italian restaurant. Despite the outcome of the match, everyone was in high spirits, ready to enjoy a delicious meal together.
That evening, the restaurant buzzed with laughter and conversation. Tim and Theo recounted their match in exaggerated detail, each adding humorous embellishments that had everyone at the table laughing. Josy and Lucy joined in with their own playful jabs, making the atmosphere even more lively.
As the night went on, the group enjoyed their meal, savoring the rich flavors of the Italian cuisine. The restaurant's cozy ambiance added to the warmth of their gathering, making it a perfect end to a busy day.
When the plates were finally empty and the dessert was just a sweet memory, they decided to call it a night. Outside the restaurant, the summer evening air was cool and refreshing.
Tim- Thanks for the company. Today was a lot of fun.
Lucy- It really was. We should do this more often.
Josy- Definitely. But next time, maybe we can do something where Dad has a better chance of winning.
Tim- (laughing) Come on, I wasn't that bad.
Theo- We'll you could have been worse.
With final goodbyes and promises to meet again soon, they all headed to their cars.