Page 104 of Saving Forever with the Hockey Captain

I look toward Jamie again. For years, the world has called Jamie Walker extraordinary because he plays hockey. Standing beside a neighborhood rink with lukewarm hot chocolate in my hands, I begin to understand how little hockey has to do with it.

Chapter thirteen

Jamie

Beyond the Jersey

For the first time since the injury, therapy doesn't hurt before it starts. I notice the difference while walking from the parking lot, not because my shoulder suddenly feels normal. It doesn't. There's still stiffness every morning. Still that familiar pull whenever I reach too far. Still the occasional reminder from my ribs that healing has its own schedule.

But today...today my body doesn't feel like it's bracing for a fight.

That's new.

Colby notices before we even reach the front doors. "You look different."

"I showered."

"That's not what I meant."

"I know."

He studies me for another second. "You aren't limping." I glance down. Sure enough...my stride feels almost even. "I hadn't noticed."

He smiles. "That's usually how progress works."

I laugh quietly. "Are you getting inspirational in your old age?"

"I'm twenty-nine."

"Ancient, according to Liam."

We step inside the rehabilitation center. The familiar warmth wraps around us, carrying the scent of fresh coffee and disinfectants. A month ago, walking through these doors felt like admitting defeat. Today, it feels like showing up for work. Different work. Still work.

Colby claps my good shoulder. "I'll be back in an hour. No heroics."

"I've heard that somewhere."

He heads back toward the parking lot. I watch him go for a second before turning toward the therapy gym.

Almost automatically my eyes begin searching.

Treatment tables.

Exercise bikes.

Parallel bars.

The cable station.

No Annette.

I frown slightly. Why am I looking for— The thought stops halfway through.

I know exactly why. I was hoping she'd be here.

Somewhere along the way, seeing Annette stopped feeling like part of the appointment. It started feeling like part of the day.

That's new.