Page 50 of Risky Move

“You don’t think they will—why not leave Vancouver and warm up in this beautiful Florida sunshine? I sure would.” Cassie watched as the rain continued to pound the roof. Melancholy descended with the rain, though she could not think of a reason.

“Why don’t I ask my sweet husband about inviting Amanda and Allyson? I can tell them it’s too far for any of us to travel for just one full day in town. Then, if they decline, you’re off the hook.” Lauren reached for her hand and squeezed it. “Would that help?”

“Honestly, I don’t know. I just hate being in the middle. It never stops.” Cassie tried to read the expression in her aunt’s eyes. “Please don’t do this just for me. It’s time to take myself out of the middle and not visit either. I’d rather celebrate Christmas with you and Dave.”

“Stop worrying, Cass. I’ll talk to him—if he hasanyreservations, we won’t invite them. Either way, you can’t please both your parents, so don’t fret. It’s not your fault they created this situation.”

* * *

Terri and Steve Rogers hosted a traditional American Thanksgiving Meal. They invited any of the Suns who were not celebrating locally to join them for the day. Cassie had forgotten Canada’s Thanksgiving Day until her father called to share holiday wishes. Now she eagerly anticipated experiencing her first American Thanksgiving. She asked so many questions that Terri invited her over when she met with a caterer to plan the meal.

“Are you planning to hit the malls for the Black Friday sales?” Caryn grinned when she caught Cassie looking at advertised sales on her iPad.

“Heck, no! There’s no way I’d stand in that crowd to shop in the middle of the night—everything’s probably on sale online, anyway.”

“Well, if you want the authentic American Thanksgiving experience, Black Friday shopping is a must.” Caryn smiled with a wink to show Cassie she was teasing.

“I’ll stick with the meal, thanks.” Cassie turned her iPad off and changed the subject. “Did you and Andrew decide when to celebrate the twins' first birthday?”

“We’re looking at the first Sunday in December when the team’s in town for ten days. We don’t want their birthday to become part of Christmas celebrations. The party may be two weeks early, but I don’t think Jen or Danny will mind.”

“Can I help you with the party? Address invitations, get decorations, really anything,” Cassie said with a chuckle. “I missed out on that with little Taylor—it wasn’t my weekend with my dad, and Mom said I could celebrate when I saw them the following week.”

Cassie felt the warmth from Caryn’s smile. “I’m counting on your help! Promise you’ll stop me from getting OCD about making everything perfect.”

Cassie crossed her fingers and held them up. “Promise.”

* * *

Thanksgiving morning, Cassie enjoyed bonding time with Jenna and Daniel. Andrew had morning skate, and Caryn joined Kelly in helping Terri remain calm as the tent, chairs, tables, and a zillion other things descended on the house. She hoped Tom didn’t have to work. He’d mentioned that he wasn’t scheduled for Thanksgiving but would work the following two days. As always, he remained on call.

Haven’t run into Cam since that party. Just hope he doesn’t speak to me…awkward. Every time I think about how close I came to adding my name to his hockey stick…She shivered in disgust and focused her thoughts on the twins. As quickly as they scooted around holding on to the furniture, she saw first steps in the near future.By their birthday? Please let Caryn and Andrew observe their first steps, not me. I’d feel so guilty—that’s amilestone parents should witness. Ditto for first words.

She looked up when she saw Danny squeal in delight and hold out his arms. Tom greeted her and then scooped Daniel into his arms.

“Happy Thanksgiving, Cassie.” His cinnamon-brown eyes met hers, and Cassie felt that little flip in her heart. She noticed he wore a dress shirt and tie.

“Are you on your way to the hospital?”

“Just to check on a few patients.” He tossed Danny slightly in the air, and Cassie laughed at the baby’s delighted giggle. “With luck, I’ll be back for the feast and football.”

“I hope so. You won’t believe Terri’s menu! I’m glad I have these two to help me burn the calories I plan to consume.”

“Save a plate for me if I don’t make it, okay?”

“Don’t even put that thought out for the universe, Tom! I’m sure there’s more than enough food.” She paused and smiled. “I can deliver if you have to stay.”

He winked as he set Daniel on the floor. “That would definitely take the sting out of working. See you soon, I hope.”

27

“Cassie, remember you’re officially off the clock,” Caryn said as the family crossed the street for Terri’s Thanksgiving celebration.

“But what about my munchkins?” Cassie glanced at Andrew, who held the thrashing Daniel. “How do we keep them happy and not on a seek-and-destroy mission? Look, Danny can’t wait to begin.”

Andrew met her eyes with a grin. “I’ll take this squirming bundle of energy. You have a strong son, Cary.”

Caryn winked at Cassie.“Myson. With all the people, I think they may crash earlier than usual. Sensory overload, then the constant attention—either it will make them hyper or exhaust them. Remember, Andrew set up the portable cribs this morning in one of the guest rooms.”

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