Page 22 of Risky Move

Most of the team left the meeting in a positive mood, and many stopped to thank Tom for taking on the responsibility. Jim Pettit stood beside him, watching the last player leave. “We know the guys who’ll fight us every step of the way. But if we can get through to the young kids, it’s worth it. They feel the pressure to perform and worry their place on the team will evaporate if they’re hurt. Maybe when they see a clear path outlined for clearance to play, it will ease that worry. Ready for introductions to the visiting training staff and coaches?”

Tom shrugged. “Why not? Better now than in the third period with the game on the line.”

* * *

After the first few games passed with only minor questionable hits to the head, and no push-back or negative feedback from either team’s players or coaching staff, Tom relaxed a bit. He had yet to prevent a player from returning to the ice after a head hit. Coach Harper offered him a place behind the bench, but Tom preferred to monitor the games from the trainer’s office. Multiple feeds broadcast the entire ice, which enabled him to view the big picture of a game. Both teams’ trainers served as first responders when a player’s head hit the boards or the ice. Many went to the team’s concussion protocol room, where Tom performed a quick, but thorough evaluation. Mostly, the players expressed gratitude for the second evaluation.

Just wait until I have to tell someone to sit for the rest of the period, the game, or transport to the hospital for further tests. Hopefully, never an injury that requires transport…Memories of his brother’s long recovery from a Traumatic Brain Injury that resulted from unintentionally blocking a shot with his head stayed fresh in Tom’s mind. Playing a role in Andrew’s recovery led to an opportunity to complete his residency in neurology—at the same hospital where Tom had assisted with his brother’s treatment and recovery plan. When the Chief of Neurology, Dan Forster, offered Tom a position, it felt more like a gift, not work.

Except for the games and during emergencies, Tom’s schedule settled into a more structured format. For the first time since he’d begun medical school in Toronto, he had time for a social life. Andrew teased him about his hospital groupies, but after trying to maintain an exclusive relationship with Katie, he preferred not to get involved with anyone at the hospital. Different schedules and few opportunities to explore the mutual attraction left both unsatisfied. When Katie recently moved home to accept a job in Minnesota, they agreed to remain “friends.” Without benefits.

He didn’t plan to accept invitations to post-game celebrations—though his friends on the Suns assured him he’d be welcomed.Don’t want to cross that line between professionalism on the job by hanging out with them. The guys I’m already friends with—one thing. The new guys and the younger players could resent the intrusion into their private lives. Even Andrew understands that. Though he warned me about the puck bunnies who might trail me in the arena’s parking lot.

“You could meet your soulmate,” Andrew said with a straight face.

“Until she discovers I’m not a hockey player.”

“Doctors trump jocks every time, brother. Don’t overlook an opportunity because you think someone’s looking for an athlete.”

Tom laughed and clapped a hand on Andrew’s shoulder. “Thanks, but no. I’ve heard enough about puck bunnies to walk the other way.”

“That leaves it up to the wives. Word gets out we have a single doctor on the payroll, you’ll receive a shit ton of dinner invitations to meet sisters, friends, daughters. Just saying, Tom.”

“Well, I’m not on the Suns’ payroll, and Iknowyou guys don’t normally share information of that sort. I’m good. If my potential soulmate’s in Tampa, our paths will cross at the right time—you know, just like you and Caryn.”

13

Several knocks on the front door finally caught Lauren’s attention as she completed a recommended appearance schedule for a new client. “Coming!” she called, even though she could guess who she’d find on the other side of the door.

As soon as she turned the lock, Cassie practically danced through the doorway. “I have the best news—just couldn’t wait to tell you!”

Lauren barely restrained her smile as her niece bounded in. “Something to drink first?” She guided Cassie toward the kitchen counter.

“Maybe in a minute.” Cassie practically bounced from excitement on the counter-height bar chair. “Guess what?”

“The twins took their first steps today?”

Cassie stopped a second, imagining that moment. “No, but that will be a huge milestone.” She drank from the water bottle Lauren placed in front of her. “You know how Caryn keeps telling me I need to get out and take some time for myself?”

“I agree.” Lauren leaned against the counter and faced her niece. “That’s got you so excited?” A teasing smile played across her face.

“No, of course not. But I appreciate it. I talked to my dad last night.”

“How are they doing?”

“Great, if you don’t count Taylor’s going through the Terrible Three’s.” Cassie laughed, then continued. “Anyway, I asked Dad if he would co-sign a car loan for me. I need to get something I can drive without worrying about denting it or parallel parking.”

“And he agreed,” Lauren prompted.

“He did some research and asked me to choose among four cars.” Cassie’s smile widened. “I picked this cute little Honda Civic because I knew I could afford the payments. He said he’d call me back today. He did and guess what? He bought the car! It’s ready for me to pick up whenever. He’s taken care of the insurance, all those complicated taxes, and he won’t let me pay him back. Said it’s a graduation present to me from his family. Can you believe that, Lauren?”

Her aunt laughed when Cassie took a breath. “You know you have your dad wrapped around your finger. Trevor doesn’t surprise me at all. Congratulations, Cass! Tell me he’s not sending you a gas card, also?”

“Gas and maintenance come from my pocket, and maybe the insurance next year. He said he wants to see where I am first. Mom wasless than thrilledwhen I told her.” Cassie made a face. “Hopefully, I’ll make good decisions and don’t mess anything up.”

“When in doubt, ask. I know it’s hard stuck in the middle of divorced parents. Just focus onyourfuture—they’ll be proud no matter which road you choose.” Cassie saw a speculative look cross Lauren’s face. “So…you need a ride to pick up your car? Where’s the dealership?”

Cassie pulled her phone from her pocket and opened a window before handing it to Lauren. “Please tell me it’s not on the other side of Tampa.”

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