Page 99 of Hockey Wife

His expression was one of “why the fuck not”?

“I decided to postpone Skye’s visit. It’s not a big deal. I’m sorry I wasn’t more honest. But if I was, you would’ve made one of your sisters stick with me and it’s their vacation. They have tickets to Wicked!”

“I assume that’s a big deal.”

“It is.”

Still scowling, he made her tea and a cup for himself. She took the mug he offered, letting it warm her hands while she waited for it to steep. That’s when she noticed a basket on the back counter, its clear plastic showcasing shortbread cookies, Lady Earl Grey tea, and several oranges.

“Where did that come from?”

“Harper Chase, the Rebels’ CEO. It’s called the don’t-sue-us package.”

“You are so cynical.” She read the card: Hope you’re feeling better! Welcome to the Rebels family! xoxo Harper Chase-DuPre.

The Rebels family. Wasn’t that lovely? Feeling a touch emotional, she turned away to reread it, then set it down on the counter.

“They seem like a nice bunch of people.” Tara, Mia, Ashley, and even Dex had all reached out to check on her.

“They’re alright.”

“Must be strange to have to start over with a new team. Just up sticks and re-jig your life.”

“It is. But it’s what we sign up for. And this will be my last team.”

“How’s your shoulder?”

“I was just about to ice it.” On the counter was a pack, sitting on a dishtowel.

“Is that what Dr. Morgan advised?”

“Pretty much.” He sipped his tea, looked kind of cagey.

“You still haven’t told them, have you?”

“I know how to handle it.”

He was exasperating. “So you’re a medical professional now?”

After a brief pause, he responded. “About three years ago, I suffered a similar injury. Back then, the docs recommended I get surgery, but it would have put me out for six months, maybe longer. Instead, I rehabbed it and figured out a way, but it’s left it weaker, more prone to re-injury.”

“And now time is running out.” While she was here, sucking up all his focus.

“I was brought onto this team for one reason: to qualify them for the playoffs and make a serious Cup run. I just need to hold on for six more weeks.”

“Then what are you doing drinking tea you don’t like and petting a cat you’re allergic to?” She stood and grabbed the ice pack. “Come on, let’s take care of this.”

Peeling off his shirt hurt but seeing Georgia kneeling beside him, the ice pack in her hand, sent a rush of dopamine to his brain. A sexy nurse rush? No … more like a-woman-taking-care-of-her-man rush. The boost wasn’t enough to dull the pain completely, but he wouldn’t want that. He needed a reminder that this wasn’t a dream.

“So, like this?” She placed the pack over his shoulder and held it there.

“Yeah, like that. Now you scoot that sweet peach of an ass down and lie beside me.”

Sure, just put it out there.

“You don’t want to be alone?”

“We finally have the house to ourselves. I’m not wasting another minute.”

---