Page 105 of Saving Forever with the Hockey Captain

Over the past several weeks, she's quietly become part of the rhythm of my recovery.

Therapy. Coffee. Conversation. Homework. Repeat.

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

I shake my head once. Dangerous line of thinking. Not because she's my therapist. Because I've spent years teaching myself not to depend on anyone.

Depending on routines is one thing. Depending on people...that's another story entirely.

"Morning, Captain."

I look up. Elise walks toward me carrying a clipboard. "Morning."

She glances around theatrically. "Looking for someone?"

"No."

One eyebrow rises. "Really?"

"I'm looking for..."

I search for something believable.

"...the resistance bands."

"They're behind you."

I turn. Sure enough...they're exactly where they've always been.

When I look back, Elise is smiling.

"I'm having an off day."

"So, I see."

She checks the schedule. "Annette's finishing an evaluation in the sports performance gym."

I nod before I can stop myself. "Good."

Elise pretends to make another note on her clipboard.

"I'll be sure to document your obvious relief."

"I wasn't relieved."

"Mm-hmm."

"I wasn't."

"You hockey players are adorable."

"We're what?"

"Hopeless."

She laughs softly before changing the subject. "Let's see what that shoulder can do today."

***