Page 17 of Unraveling Rain
“I’m sorry about that. My sister is amazing, but she can be a little too much sometimes,” Ruin says apologetically.
I simply wave her off, still unable to form words.
“We have an indoor pool,” she says, pointing to an annex building about fifty feet from the farmhouse, “and a multi-event space where we host seasonal activities”.
The building to the right looks like a classic red barn from the outside, with white-trimmed windows, but once we step inside, it’s a fully modern space. There’s a squash court, a dance studio, a movie theater, and even a yoga studio.
“Ruin, this place is amazing. I’m looking forward to my time here,” I tell her honestly.
She visibly relaxes. “I’m glad you think so. We’ve come up with a plan to help you heal, not just physically, but alsomentally. We know how important it is for athletes to be at the top of their game.”
She hands me a piece of paper.
“So this is your schedule for this first week. We figured we’d make changes as we go and see what areas need more attention. The goal is to get you back on the ice in time for the preseason.”
A morsel of the excitement sparks in my chest, the kind I usually only feel when I’m on the ice.
This is good. Really good.
Glancing at the paper, I have meetings with her every day at different times, physical therapy with Dylan, and tomorrow I’m meeting Dr. Gutierrez. I’m sure he’ll want to run some baseline tests.
“Ruin, is there a schedule with the extra activities or things to do in town? I’m assuming I’m allowed to leave the facility anytime, correct?” I ask as we head back toward the farmhouse.
“Yes, of course. The extra activities are on the last page. Our town is small, but it’s full of fun and cute places to visit. If you feel like hiking, there are some beautiful trails that I’ll be more than happy to point out, or as I said earlier—in a very unprofessional way— Vanessa can give you some tips.”
I chuckle, remembering Vanessa’s eyes nearly popping out of her skull. Ruin turns a light shade of pink.
“Oh! I almost forgot. The kitchen is fully stocked, and you’re free to use it if you’d like. But if you want someoneto cook for you, there’s a menu on your nightstand. We’ll deliver it to your room.”
I think about the options for dinner. By the time I’m done working out, I’ll be starving.
When we make it back to the front door, Vanessa is gone, and the house is eerily quiet. I guess everyone is gone for the day.
“One last question,” I say before Ruin slips out.
She pauses, turning back.
“The woman we met in the kitchen—Rain…”
I say her name, tasting it on my lips. She’s more like a storm.
“My sister?” Ruin asks, waiting for me to elaborate.
“Yes. Your sister,” I say, scratching the back of my neck. “Does she work here too?”
Ruin gives me a knowing look. Now it’s my turn to blush. I can feel the heat creeping up my neck.
“Yes. She started giving cooking lessons to our patients today. I haven’t spoken to her yet, and judging by the state of the kitchen when we walked in, I’m not sure if it was a success or a failure. I hope she can continue, though. Why?”
She throws a mischievous grin my way.
Damn. I haven’t even been here a full day, and I’ve already been caught ogling the owner’s sister. So much for not looking for anything—or anyone.
But Rain MacAllister isn’t justanyone.
That woman is a force to be reckoned with.
“I simply wanted to apologize for not speaking to her. I’m glad to know I’ll get a chance in her class next time.”
