Page 18 of Blindsided By the Enforcer

“Is that why you chose to study agriculture science?” Lily asks.

“Yes, my dad worked for my grandad. That’s how he met my mom.”

“You seem very passionate. It’s nice to see that trait in a young person. I feel like most young people I meet don’t have their lives figured out,” she says.

“I love the farm and the animals. I get the confusion of not knowing what to do with the rest of your life,” I say to her. “Cade, do you plan on continuing with hockey after graduation?”

His mom’s brows hit her forehead, and she watches us with surprise.

“We are still new. I don’t know much about Cade,” I explain.

“Yes, Cade is continuing with hockey,” his father answers. “He’s going to be a famous enforcer, just like his old man.”

“What does that mean exactly?” I ask, looking between Cade and his dad.

Lily laughs for some reason. “I like her.”

Cade shakes his head and laughs. I feel like I’ve been left out of the joke.

“It means I’m the fighter or the tough guy, so to speak. The one who responds to and prevents violent or dirty plays from the opposing team,” Cade explains.

Hmm. I pinch my lips together.

Cade doesn’t seem like a fighter to me. He’s too sweet.

“Cade is one of the best enforcers in NCAA hockey,” his dad adds.

I smile. “Well, when the season starts up again, I’ll need to come watch a game.”

“You haven’t seen him play?” his dad asks, surprised.

“Okay, I’m missing something here,” I say, looking from Cade to his parents.

“Darling, you should eat your waffle. It’s going to get cold,” Lily urges me.

“What my father is trying to say is that he’s surprised you aren’t a puck bunny. It’s a girl who dates a player for status,” Cade explains.

My eyes bulge.

“Cade, that was unnecessary,” his dad says with a firm, angry voice.

“You set yourself up for that one, Dad. You don’t think a girl can like me for who I am,” Cade says to his father and my stomach flips. I wish I could run away because this must be so awkward for Cade. I feel sorry for him.

“The food is delicious. Why don’t you kids dig in? Forget about the nonsense,” Lily suggests.

I watch Cade’s jaw tick and his body grow tense.

“You know what? I’ve lost my appetite,” he says, and he moves his chair back and stands. “I’m sick and tired of this nonsense. I’m not going to Mexico. Annie invited me to stay with her family for the holidays. I’d rather spend the time there,” he continues, and he puts on his peacoat.

I stand too.

“I’m really sorry breakfast was a bust,” Lily says apologetically. She’s a nice lady. I just wish she would stop being so apologetic about her asshole husband.

Cade leans in and kisses his mom’s cheek. “We’ll be in touch. Have a good holiday,” he whispers .

“You take care and enjoy the farm,” she answers. “I like her,” she murmurs.

Oh dear. I feel bad for fooling her. She’s such a sweet woman. His father on the other hand sucks balls.

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