Page 22 of Heart of a Fighter

“And with me,” I add, squeezing Lauren’s hand. My heart swells with love and gratitude. She believed in me when no one else did.

“The league contacted me this morning. They are dropping their internal investigation. The Predators are being sanctioned with a hefty fine, and the process for Mark’s expulsion from the league is underway.” Dad shuffles papers on his desk. “If that’s everything, you can all see yourselves out.”

I chuckle to myself. The old man may have apologized, but he’s still the same old geezer he’s always been–business all the way.

As we leave his office, the air feels lighter, the future brighter. I’ve got the girl, my job, and the respect of my best friend. Things couldn’t be any better than that.

“Hey, Granger,” Zach calls over his shoulder as he reaches his car. “Dinner at Mom’s tomorrow night. Bring a date.”

He grins and chuckles. I hold Lauren a little closer, thankful for the family and friends I’ve chosen and who’ve chosen me. They’re the ones I’ll fight for and the ones who will fight with all their heart for us.

EPILOGUE

A FIGHTER’S HEART

***

Lauren

The hospital corridor is a flurry of excitement, a stark contrast to the usual hushed tones and clinical atmosphere. Today’s special, and everyone can feel it. Emily, my brave little patient, is finally ready to go home. She isn’t out of the woods, but as of yesterday morning, the doctors announced she’s cancer-free. Though I’ll miss her smiling face, today’s a day for celebrating.

“Are you ready for your big send-off?” I ask, crouched beside Emily’s wheelchair.

Emily’s eyes are bright with excitement as she nods enthusiastically. I glance at her teary-eyed parents, their tired faces filled with relief. They wheel her out of the white, sterile hospital room into the hallway where they’re greeted with smiles, well-wishes and spontaneous clapping from the medical staff. But an even bigger surprise awaits my brave little patient.

We walk down the hallway, and the doors open to a corridor lined with the Saints hockey team. Emily squeals and giggles.

“Can I please get out of the wheelchair? Please?” she asks, her eyes pleading.

Her parents glance at me, and I nod, waiving hospital protocol. “She’s earned it.”

Emily stands, a little wobbly at first, but quickly steadies herself. She giggles as she greets each player, exchanging high-fives and cheers.

“Way to go, champ.” Zach high-fives her and winks.

Graves ruffles Emily’s wispy, short hair. “I’m proud of you,” he says, placing a Saints cap on her head. Emily looks back at her parents with a big smile that nearly breaks my heart.

As Emily reaches the end of the line, she stops in front of Granger, her eyes shining with admiration. He kneels to her level, and she wraps her tiny arms around him in a spontaneous hug.

“I saw your press conference. I told Lauren no one should mess with you.” She glances back at me. I catch the glimmer in Granger’s eye, and my heart’s ready to bust. “You have the heart of a fighter,” Emily says, her voice full of sincerity. “Just like Lauren and just like me.”

Tears prick at my eyes as I watch the exchange. Her words hit me deeply, reminding me of my mother’s battle with cancer, the strength she showed, and the relief and gratitude I felt when she beat it. It’s because of her that I get to help patients like Emily fight the same battle. My heart is full knowing Emily and her family have a bright future ahead.

Granger’s eyes soften. “Thank you, Emily. You’re the real fighter here. You know what that makes you?”

“What?” she asks, enthralled with Granger.

“It makes you my hero.” He gestures from his heart to hers. “Keep being strong and brave.”

Emily nods, her smile never wavering. “I will,” she promises. “You, too.”

Granger nods, clearly touched by Emily’s bravery.

We continue to the exit, with the team falling in line behind us. We watch Emily step into the sunshine, surrounded by her family, with the Saints cheering her on. It’s such a heartwarming moment that I’m moved to happy tears.

Granger slips his hand into mine, giving it a gentle squeeze. He nuzzles his nose into my hair and murmurs close to my ear, “You’re amazing, you know that?”

“So are you.” I smile at him, my heart full. “I hear you have the heart of a fighter.”

“I’m a lover, not a fighter, babe.” Granger kisses my temple, no longer worried about the watchful eyes of others.

***

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