Page 214 of Saving Forever with the Hockey Captain

I read the notification twice before slipping the phone back into my pocket. Seven more sessions. For the first time in months, I find myself wondering whether she's looking forward to Thursday...

or simply counting how many Tuesdays and Thursdays remain.

Chapter twenty-seven

Jamie and Annette

Everything Changes

Jamie

By Thursday morning, I’ve rehearsed the conversation so many times that none of the versions sound real anymore.

In one, I ask Annette directly whether I have done something wrong.

In another, I keep it casual and give her room to tell me whatever she is avoiding.

In a third, I say nothing at all and trust that the distance between us will disappear on its own.

That last version is the easiest.

It is also the one I know will not work.

I arrive at rehab ten minutes early and sit in my truck with both hands resting on the steering wheel. The parking lot looks exactly as it always does. Maintenance Frank is pushing a cart toward the side entrance. Mrs. Alvarez’s car is parked beneath the maple tree across from reception. Through the front windows, I can see patients moving past the lobby in a steady rhythm.

Nothing outside has changed.

Inside me, everything feels slightly off balance.

My phone buzzes with a message from Coach asking whether I can attend the afternoon practice. I answer yes automatically, then stare at the word on the screen.

A week ago, Annette would have been proud that I paused before accepting another commitment. Today I’m not sure she would even ask.

I slip the phone into my pocket and head inside. Mrs. Alvarez greets me warmly, though her eyes linger on my face for a second longer than usual.

“Good morning, Jamie.”

“Morning.”

She glances toward the therapy wing. “Annette’s finishing with another patient.”

“Thanks.”

I start down the hallway, then stop. “Mrs. Alvarez?”

“Yes?”

“Has she seemed all right this week?”

The question feels too personal as soon as I ask it. Mrs. Alvarez’s expression turns thoughtful. “Busy, maybe. A little distracted.”

“Nothing else?”

“Not that she’s said.”

I nod. “Probably just a long week.”

“Probably.”