Page 115 of Risky Move

“Okay.”Still don’t know the benefit of this in real life—Dave’s told me the order repeatedly.Cassie took a sheet of paper and began listing the steps to solve equations. She’d barely started when Dave returned to the room. “Andrew wants to speak with you.”

“About what?” Cassie felt her heart pound.

Dave offered his hand as she stood. “Relax, Cassie. It’s nothing to worry about.”

“How do you know?” Cassie looked at him and saw the smug expression on his face.

“Because he knows I’ll beat his ass if he upsets you.”

Cassie’s laugh sounded only a little forced. “Thanks…I think.”

Cassie fought to control her emotions before she met Andrew’s eyes.

“Can I get either of you something to drink?” Dave offered. Both shook their heads, and he nodded toward the porch. “Why don’t you guys talk out there? Give you some privacy.”

“Thanks for seeing me, Cassie,” Andrew said. Cassie studied his expression.No anger, and he almost appears nervous…?

“No problem. How are Danny and Jenna? And Caryn?”

“All well.” After they both sat, he continued, “We’ve had absolutely no issues with Daniel. No cough, no fever, and guess who wanted to jump in the pool in St. John’s? No fear.”

Cassie nodded as Andrew looked at her. “I want to apologize, Cassie.” His blue eyes locked with hers. “I’m sorry I blamed you for Daniel’s accident.”

“He was my responsibility.”

“Yes, but accidents happen despite people’s best intentions or efforts. It’s not your fault Daniel fell into the pool. I should have thanked you for saving his life—for knowing what to do and not panicking. Instead, I accused you, told you it was your fault, and probably more that I don’t care to remember.” Andrew paused and Cassie watched as he took a deep breath, his eyes reflecting his emotions. “I’m sorry for putting you through that, Cassie. I know you love the twins and would never act carelessly with them. They ask for you every day—you’ve had such an impact on their lives. I’m not expecting you to accept my apology, but I do want you to know that no one blames you. You’re welcome in our home any time, any day. I sincerely hope you’ll visit the twins soon—and Caryn, who’s miserable without you.”

Cassie nodded as she tried to contain her emotions. She pinched the bridge of her nose to stop the tears that threatened. “There’s nothing to forgive, Andrew. You had every right to be furious with me. I don’t blame you for anything you said.” She paused for a deep breath. “Thank you for telling me you realize it was an accident and no longer blame me. I do appreciate that, but I’ll never forget Danny almost drowned on my watch. That’s the truth; I can’t forget that or forgive myself.” She swiped her hand across her face.

Andrew reached to grasp her hand. “Please, Cassie, accidents happen. If I can admit that, so should you. If you think you can’t forgive yourself, please remember no one—not even me and my inexcusable temper—believes it’s your fault. We’re incredibly grateful you knew what to do…that you took those courses on your own time just in case a situation occurred. We didn’t ask you to give up your free time to take them. Like Caryn said, if you or Tom hadn’t been there, we would have had to wait for the paramedics.”

“So…are you signed up for the courses?”

“Caryn has registered. I’ll take mine after the season ends.” He squeezed her hand. “I meant what I said about everyone missing their ‘Ca Ca.’ Please, consider visiting us soon.”

Cassie laughed even as she choked on her tears. “Thank you, that means a lot.”

He stood and shook his head when she started to follow him. “I’ll let myself out. Before I go, know also that we could not be happier that you and Tom found each other. No pressure, but Caryn really hopes to have a sister in the family soon.”

* * *

When Cassie had the chance to relay her conversation with Andrew via phone, Tom didn’t express surprise.

“I told him ‘it’s about time’ when he said he needed to apologize to you. I know he’s sincere,” Tom said. “Both he and Caryn worry you’ll avoid them and not visit the twins.”

“It’s just hard, Tom. I’m not comfortable walking into their house. I miss Daniel and Jenna terribly, but I’m not sure I can look at the pool without it haunting me.”

Tom paused for a long moment. “Just a head’s up—Caryn’s going to invite you, Lauren, and Dave for dinner. Small get together, just the six of us. Maybe that can ease some of your anxiety. But don’t tell her I said anything. You’re my date, just don’t leave me hanging.”

“I won’t. Maybe with that group—and if I don’t look at the pool—I can relax. Maybe help break the ice?”

“Yes, I hope so. I miss you in my apartment. I want you to come and go whenever you want. Use my office to study. Surprise me when I come home. Wake up with you next to me. I told Andrew he’s not off the hook until that happens.”

“Is this an invitation?”

“Whenever you’re ready, baby. You have the key.”

* * *

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