Page 28 of Risky Move

“They’re running his name through the medical information database. Something may pop up,” Tom added.

Blakely returned to the group. “Pettit’s already on it. I’ll hang around here for a while just in case Chance wants company.”

Peterson laughed quietly. “Not likely, but we can stay, too.”

Tom shook his head. “No need. He’s out for the night. Any changes, I’ll get the call.”

“Thanks, Tom,” John said. “We’ll stay with Lucas until he hears from Pettit. Let us know if there’s anything we need to do.”

“You know the routine as well as I do.” Tom referred to the days of uncertainty while Andrew fought to survive his TBI. The Petersons and Steve and Terri Rogers had encircled Caryn–and him—with support. His family owed a huge debt of gratitude for the many ways they’d supported Andrew on the long recovery. He said a silent prayer of thanks that Gagné’s injury did not appear serious.

* * *

Cassie set the GPS for the Chadwick’s and struggled to concentrate on driving while her mind wanted to scream in frustration.So much for my new friend—if I wanted to chauffeur people, I’d work for Lyft or Uber. I will not screw up this opportunity. Why not just go out and enjoy dinner and dancing—forget about the drinking? Thought we’d do that tonight. Different agendas?

The warning sound and vibrating steering wheel jerked Cassie’s thoughts to the road. She hadn’t even realized she’d drifted toward the adjacent lane.Concentrate, Cassie. You can think about Amelie later.

She arrived home before Andrew had returned from the game. Caryn dozed on the sofa and sat up reluctantly when Cassie walked in.

“Not a good evening for Jenna and Daniel?”

Caryn shook her head with a wan smile. “Teething again, I think. Just got them asleep.”

“I’m sorry—I should have stayed home and helped you.”

Caryn brushed the hair away from her face. “No, you need to get out. Have a good time with Amelie?”

Cassie shrugged. “It was okay, different.” She laughed softly when she saw Caryn’s perplexed expression. “She needs a designated driver and someone to make sure no one slips anything into her drinks…I think she’s a lot like Cam, if I understand his reputation.”

“Possibly. Theyaretwins. You didn’t drink?”

“Nothing but water. I promised myself I’ll never drink, then drive. When I wouldn’t let Amie stay and call Uber or Lyft for a ride later, Amelie got slightly peeved. She definitely had at least one too many drinks.”

Caryn hugged her sympathetically. “I’m sorry. That’s not exactly the type evening you had in mind.”

“We’ll see if she calls tomorrow—or even remembers tonight. Have you heard anything about Chance?”

“Drew said he’s good. They’re keeping him at the hospital tonight for observation.” Caryn stifled a yawn. “Drew said he’ll run by the hospital—no need to wait up for him.”

“Why not get some sleep?” Cassie picked up the monitor. “I’ll check on the munchkins and listen out. I’m kind of wired, so I won’t be sleeping soon.”

“I’m not arguing with you on this one. I’m exhausted.” Caryn squeezed Cassie’s hand. “Thank you. I’m proud that you played the responsible party tonight. I know that couldn’t have been much fun.”

“Honestly, I wish I’d stayed home or gone to the game. But, all’s good, Caryn. Get some rest while you can.”

* * *

About an hour later, Andrew and Tom entered the house together.

“My peanuts cranky this evening?” Andrew smiled when he saw Cassie.

“They fussed a bit…well, let’s say they were cranky earlier. Caryn thinks they’re teething again.” Cassie bit back a smile. “She didn’t argue when I suggested she get some sleep.”

“Thanks, Cassie.” Andrew opened the refrigerator and set two bottles of beer on the counter.

“How’s Chance? That looked scary.”

“He’s okay,” Tom said. “We’re keeping him overnight as a precaution. Definitely has a concussion.”

---