Page 29 of Wild Card

I remain silent, waiting her out. It’s been like this the last forty-five minutes. Her going through the session robotically, keeping her focus and conversation to the basics. I gave her the play, showing I can respect her position.

Abe was forthcoming in his praise of Willow but made a point to mention her dedication. He described it as a quest for perfection. Little did he know, he was adding to my list of discoveries of the elusive Willow Richards.

After a full minute of no response, she lifts her eyes to mine. “Are you okay?”

“Great, just waiting for this session to end so we can drop the formalities.”

It’s almost invisible, but I catch the spark in her pupils.

“There are no formalities.”

“You’re cute when you lie.”

“I’m not lying, and I’m not cute!”

“You are.”

“Don’t make me regret taking on your file.”

“Regret is the last thing you ever need to feel when it comes to me.”

She lays her tablet to the side and motions to my shoulder. “Can I feel?”

I open my arms in welcome. “Anytime.”

She follows the same process as last week, prodding with different pressure points and assessing my comfort level. Her hand never deviates from the area, purposely staying away from my scars.

“What do you think?” I ask when she’s back to making notes.

“My official report will need approval from Abe. A few more weeks of sessions along with at-home exercises, you can resume normal activity. Barring any more sliding into home plate or occupational mishaps.”

“No ball games on my schedule for a while.”

“And the other?” she raises her eyebrows.

“The other is a non-issue.”

“Non-issue? Meaning what?” She presses her lips together, shaking her head. “Don’t answer that.”

“I’ll answer any of your questions. But before I do, tell me about your hang-up with my job.”

“Howdy!” The blonde pops over, vibrating with excitement and offering her hand. “Thought it was time we formally met. I’m Rebecca Yates. Everyone calls me Bex.”

“Talon Simms.” I shake her hand. “But you already know that.”

“Yep, and Lucas is finishing with a patient but wanted me to let you know everything is here.”

“Thanks.”

“No problem.”

“What are y’all talking about?”

“Go to lunch with me?” I ignore Willow’s question.

“No, thank you.” Her cheeks heat, glancing between Bex and me.

“Have you already eaten?”

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