Page 59 of Stay
Where had all that certainty disappeared to?
Why wasn’t she still playing?
After being on the ice with her, I could tell she was good.
Talented.
I keep telling myself to be patient. That if I give her enough time, she’ll open up. That hasn’t happened. I’m beginning to wonder if it ever will. I’m not ready to give up on her yet, but the girl has to throw me a bone.
In every team picture I’d found online, her dad had been standing proudly behind her. He’d obviously been one of her coaches growing up. He’d looked different as well. Younger. Happier. Lighter.
It had taken a moment for recognition to dawn.
Whatever happened last year had affected both of them.
“That’s a pensive look.”
When my mom strokes a hand over my cheek, I snap out of my thoughts and force a smile. No matter how hard I try, I can’t get that girl out of my mind.
“Everything okay?”
There’s no way I’m discussing the Cassidy situation with my mother. There are just too many unknowns at this point. Half the time, I have no idea where I stand with her.
“It’s nothing.”
Plus, she’ll want to talk it to death and I’m not in the mood for that.
She slips her arm through mine as we move into the kitchen.
“It smells good in here. What are you making this time?”
My mother loves to cook and is always trying out new recipes. Added bonus—she’s really good at it.
“Braised beef roast, au gratin potatoes, glazed green beans with a freshly-baked rosemary infused bread.” She flashes me a smile.
That’s all it takes for my belly to grumble.
A full week of eating at school will make you appreciate a homecooked meal.
“That sounds amazing. If there are any leftovers, can I take them back for the guys?”
Sadistic as it sounds, I enjoy watching them fight like jackals over the prepared dishes. It’s the small things in life that you need to enjoy.
“You can invite them over any time. You know I don’t mind.”
I shrug.
She’s right, I could have, but…
“I needed a break from the chaos.”
Five guys sharing a house and playing hockey together is sometimes a little too much togetherness. Getting away for a few hours every Sunday is usually enough of a break before I head back to school for the week.
“That’s understandable,” she agrees.
I’m an only child. And while most moms feel a bit of relief when their children fly the coop, mine didn’t. Hell, I’d still be living in my old room if she had her way. So, we compromised when I left for college. I stayed local, and live near campus instead of at home.
I swipe a chocolate chip cookie from a plate on the counter. “Where’s Thomas?”
