Page 122 of Slew Foot
“You don’t, but by the end of the day you will.”
He laughed. “Good to know.”
“So, tell me all about Rafe. How did you two get together?”
Mickey relaxed into the comfortable leather seat and proceeded to tell her all about how he and Rafe had gotten where they were.
Well, minus a few of the dirtier details.
He was laughing as they pulled up in front of the testing center. As he got out of the SUV and she handed her keys over to the valet person there, he had to admit, this wasdefinitelybetter than having an impersonal driver.
Especially when he’d only taken a few steps before his head spun dizzyingly. She tucked her arm into his and patted his hand.
“Don’t worry, we’ve got this,” she said, smiling brightly as she led him through the revolving door and into the building.
Just looking at the door made the world lurch sickeningly around him. But with Catherine there to steady him, he thought maybe he could do this.
Maybe this situation wasn’t so impossible to deal with.
Rafe was sprawled on the couch, knitting furiously as he waited for an update on how Mickey’s testing had gone, when the apartment door opened.
He scrambled to his feet, surprised when he heard Mickey’s voice and that of a woman. He met a tired-looking Mickey in the hall, supported by Catherine O’Shea.
“Mrs. O!” he said. “What are you doing here?”
She smiled. “I was Mickey’s driver today.”
“How’d testing go?” Rafe asked.
Mickey blinked at him, his smile weak as he shook his head, shrugging helplessly.
“The ringing is particularly bad right now,” Catherine said. “I’m not sure he can hear you.”
“Ahh shit,” Rafe said. He reached out, taking Mickey’s arm and pressing a kiss to the side of Mickey’s head. “Well, thanks for looking out for him today. He’s very stubborn about accepting help.”
“I’ve noticed,” she said drily. “Thankfully, I’ve had lots of practice dealing with stubborn hockey players. Now, is there anything you two need before I go?”
“I don’t think so.”
“I’ll bring by some meals in a couple of days. You shouldn’t have to worry about food while you’re dealing with this.”
“Oh thanks,” Rafe said, relieved. “That would be amazing.”
Mickey swayed a little on his feet and Rafe frowned. He probably needed to get some rest. Or at least get horizontal.
Catherine nodded like she knew exactly what Rafe was thinking. He had a feeling she might. She seemed like a very smart lady. “I’ll let myself out. And I’ll text you before I drop by with food.”
“Thanks,” Rafe said.
“I’m happy to help.” She stepped closer, rising to her toes to press a motherly kiss to Mickey’s cheek.
He looked surprised but when she pulled back, he grasped her hand. “Thank you,” he whispered. “I don’t know what I would have done?—”
“Take care of yourself,” she said, not allowing him to finish. “And let me know if you need anything.”
Mickey stared intently at her face for a moment before he nodded, wincing a little. “I will.”
When Catherine was gone, Rafe led Mickey to the bedroom. He protested a little, but when he was stretched out on his back, he let out a big sigh, like it felt good.
