Healthy Scratch

by Robyn M Ryan

  “No, as usual, you didn’t think.”

  Lauren closed her eyes against the criticism, feeling like a misbehaving child again. She debated raising the next issue, but maybe she could help…or add fuel to the fire. “Cassie talked about her ‘gap year’ idea. She says she won’t burn any bridges with her university acceptances. Maybe it would help to just let that subject go right now. Remember, I bounced back and forth before deciding to go to Toronto?”

  “How can I forget?” Amanda snapped. “Like I told you, she will not take a ‘gap year’ and expect either her father or me to finance her whims. Maybe she needs to experience working a job without a university degree?”

  “I told her I’d take her to Paris—or wherever—for her graduation present. Maybe that will satisfy her gap year urge?”

  “She doesn’t deserve a trip to Paris. Just like today, she comes and goes as she pleases. When she is home, she’s very disrespectful to her grandmother and me.”

  “That doesn’t sound like Cassie.” Lauren kept her voice soft. “You mentioned our mother. Is she around often?”

  “I invited her to move in a few weeks ago. I thought you knew.”

  Lauren heard the defensiveness in Amanda’s voice. “Maybe I did and blocked it out. You still taking her to the AA meetings?”

  Amanda didn’t answer the question directly. “She’s trying very hard to make up for all the years we missed. She wants to have a relationship with her daughters and granddaughter. That includes you, Lauren.”

  Not happening. “How’s that working for you, Amanda?”

  “She’s a huge help around the house—so nice to get home from work and find no housework, laundry, or cooking to worry about.” Amanda paused to take a drink. Of water? “We have so much fun shopping on the weekends, going out to lunch or dinner. It’s nice to have a mother who’s also a friend.”

  Lauren couldn’t sit any longer. She paced the side of the pool, steeling her nerve for the next question. “And she’s totally sober? No drinking at all?”

  “Other than a little wine with dinner or when we go out, she’s fine.”

  “Last time we talked, you said she’d been sober for what, a month or two?” Lauren turned the corner and continued to pace. “Is it wise to drink socially when you’re a recovering alcoholic? Does she still go to meetings?”

  “Every so often. Mom’s fine, Lauren. We went to the spa last week, and treated ourselves to new hairstyles, mani-pedis…you wouldn’t recognize her.” Amanda’s voice rose in her eagerness.

  “I wouldn’t know her if I passed her on the street. I haven't seen her since I was three. I’d prefer it stay that way.” Lauren blinked back tears of frustration. Does Amanda believe her own words? Delusional? “Let’s agree to disagree on our mother. Since you two are rebuilding a relationship, maybe it’s a chance for Cassie to stay with her father. Just until graduation.”

  “Do you hear yourself, Lauren? There’s no way Cassandra’s moving in with that douche. No telling what goes on in that home.”

  “Maybe a loving family?” Lauren snapped. “Cassie is miserable, Amanda. She wants to move out of the house,” she blurted before she thought. “If not Trevor, maybe one of her friends?”

  Amanda didn’t speak for a long moment. Lauren heard her drinking…more wine?

  “Not happening.”

  “Amanda, don’t be angry with Cassie. She’s confused. It might help to give her some space. Let her stay at a friend’s home for a while. It’s not that long until graduation.” Lauren realized she’d walked around the entire pool. She looked toward the house and saw Caryn with Jenna and Daniel. Hope that’s my future. Happy home…loving husband…family? Someday, maybe children?

  Amanda’s voice interrupted her thoughts. “Lauren, as usual, you mean well. But you do not know what I’m dealing with here. The last thing my daughter needs is more freedom. She’s not moving out. Period.” Amanda took a deep breath. “She takes advice about as well as you do, Lauren. Think about that instead of judging my decisions.”

  Well, that went well. Lauren sat by the pool and stared at the water. Had she assumed too much because of her “non-relationship” with her own mother? Maybe she’d been living in her fairy tale bubble and not thinking? Too consumed with her new relationship with Marty? She’s right, I should have called her this morning. I didn’t think—just like Amanda said.

  Lauren leaned back in the chair, chilled even though the sun shone brightly.

  22

  AS SOON AS he chose a seat on the flight to New York, Dave slipped his headphones over his ears. He wanted to think through Lauren’s conversation about her niece. He remembered how dramatic his younger sister acted at times—surely this was not Cassie’s first meltdown. Kimberlee averaged at least one a month when their parents did not approve some plans she’d made before asking. Did she ever threaten to leave? Don’t think so, but I spent most of my time at the arena. Many nights I’d get in, and Mom would ask me to talk with Kimberlee. Like the time she wanted to join an unchaperoned group of teens on a spring break trip to Cancun. Still don’t know why my sister thought that idea would fly, even though she’d turned eighteen. A smile crossed his face as he remembered the horror she’d projected when their parents said she could go—if she traveled with them on a semi-family vacation. Not what she wanted to hear. Shortly after that, the Blues had added him to their roster for the rest of the season, so he avoided future theatrics.

  But, Lauren’s reaction? If I didn’t know her better, I’d say over-reaction. That’s not my girl’s style—keeps a tight lid on her emotions. What made her react so strongly? What’s the back story? Lauren never spoke about her parents, and any references she made to her childhood only included the years living at her sister’s home. Don’t know her age when she moved in with Amanda and her husband—too young to remember? Any interaction with her parents now?

  He knew these questions would remain unanswered until Lauren confided in him. He couldn’t probe, no matter how much he wanted to help her. Non-starter. Especially with our exclusive relationship still new. Still half expect her to bail at any time. He longed to help her, support her through this family turmoil. Just only on Lauren’s terms. Only if she asked for his help…even though he felt a compelling urge to just solve the problem, no matter what. He smiled, imagining her reaction if he presumed to take over. Probably call me a caveman…or worse. My Energizer Bunny takes control and handles life on her terms. Probably say she doesn’t need a GUY to solve a problem. You heard her declaration that “no man would ever control her.” Yep, heard you loud and clear, Ms. Gentry.

  #

  Lauren tried to keep her concentration on her task at hand—helping Caryn check in with each of their clients, perusing their social media accounts, and sometimes suggesting that the athlete allow them to monitor comments before posting. Cliff Camden’s agent finally listened to Caryn as she pointed out the rookie’s blunders that could affect his future in the NHL. Pending Cliff’s approval, another extremely challenging client would come on board…probably kicking and screaming that he doesn’t need any help. Lauren shook her head as she glanced at his Instagram account. No concept of public image. Facebook, Snapchat…Disasters waiting to surface. Wonder if I can get him to understand he’s screwing around with his future? He doesn’t check what’s posted to his accounts. Priority number one after this road trip.

  Her thoughts continued to drift back to her conversation with Amanda. She’d never heard her sister that bitter. Hope Cassie comes home after school. Wish that girl would answer my calls or texts. Did something happen since Cassie and I last talked? Or is she trying to escalate the drama until she gets what she wants? Lauren analyzed her own behavior at Cassie’s age. She remembered how adamantly she wanted to leave Vancouver in her rear-view mirror. The teenaged Lauren was weary of fearing she’d see her mother or father unexpectedly, tired of living with the consequences of her misguided actions during secondary school—and the worst possible scenario, fo
rced to return to her mother’s home. She never genuinely relaxed until she moved on campus in Toronto. Thousands of miles’ separation allowed Lauren to breathe, determine her own identity. Could Cassie have similar issues? No way to know until she surfaces and shares her thoughts.

  On a hunch, Lauren switched to her niece’s Instagram account. A couple of photos posted earlier in the day, but she could have taken the photos before leaving the house. Her other accounts yielded less information. She knew Cassie had a secret private group on Facebook, but she’d never granted Lauren access. Come on, Cas, just call your mom.

  She looked up as Caryn entered their office. “My Godchildren sleeping like angels?”

  “Finally. Didn’t mean to abandon you.”

  “No problem. I’ve made good progress on our list—and I see what you meant about Cam’s accounts. Hopefully, he’ll allow us to monitor and approve posts. Saw many things I’m itching to delete.”

  “I hear you.” Caryn laughed as she sat at her desk. “Unlike Andrew, who didn’t see any value in his accounts and turned everything over to his agent, Cam’s hands on. He may balk at giving us access.”

  Lauren shrugged. “That shouldn’t be a problem. I’m certain someone from the team or front office will take care of that if needed.”

  “Any news from Vancouver?”

  “Nada. I’ve sent a few texts to Cassie—no response. She posted a couple of photos on Instagram…” Lauren glanced at her watch. “Guess we’ll know something this evening if she surfaces after school.”

  “Want to hang out and watch the game?”

  “You need to ask? I’ll take care of dinner. Are Terri and Kelly joining us?”

  “I haven’t spoken to them today. With everything going on with Amanda and Cassie, thought you might enjoy some quiet company.” Lauren saw the smile and question in Caryn’s eyes. “Tom might be here, too. He has his off days beginning this evening—pending no emergencies.”

  “Oh, I hope it’s quiet at the hospital. Make a list of Tom’s favorite foods—we can surprise him with dinner and the game.” Lauren’s phone pinged and she quickly looked at the screen and swallowed her disappointment. Just a confirmation of an auto-payment. Where are you, Cassie?

  #

  After a turbulent flight delayed by storms, the team headed straight to the arena rather than check in first at the hotel. Short skate, catered lunch, then to the hotel for a couple hours before returning. Dave sent Lauren a quick text, assuring her he’d call later. Her return text—typical Lauren:

  Lauren: Don’t call until after the game. Not a good day in the Gentry family. Good luck—score a goal for me?

  Her text ended with a series of emojis to decipher. He replied with his own set of symbols, then added an attempt to lighten her mood:

  Dave: Hat trick for a smile?

  Lauren: More than just a smile for a hat trick, Mr. Martin.

  He paused a second, crafting a response.

  Dave: Show me tonight on FaceTime?

  Lauren: You score the hat trick, and we’ll see…

  Lauren ended the message with multi-color hearts and a question mark. Dave chuckled as he set his phone on the bedside table and plugged into the charger. He tossed his sweats into a laundry bag tagged with his name, and then glanced at the closet. A freshly pressed suit, shirt, and tie hung in the closet, and his shoes appeared newly shined. He enjoyed the extra services the Suns’ staff provided—just like a personal valet. First class organization. After setting the alarm, he flopped on the bed for a quick catnap. He pushed Lauren’s cryptic text to the back of his head. Instead, he wished his feisty girl with auburn hair snuggled beside him. You’ve got it bad, Martin…. Don’t scare her off by letting her know it.

  #

  Lauren’s stomach churned as the day turned to evening with no communication from either Cassie or Amanda. She continued to contact her niece, with no success, and Lauren finally accepted that Cassie had either turned off her phone or its battery had run down. Call Amanda? Surely, she’d let me know if she’d heard from Cassie or if she’d returned home. After that last conversation, she hesitated to contact her sister. She’d wait until six o’clock in Vancouver and then make the call and hope that Cassie had returned by then.

  Caryn joined her in the kitchen after Jenna and Daniel settled down for a nap. “Something smells delicious.”

  “Hope Tom likes tacos?” She showed Caryn the platter filled with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, peppers, cheese, guacamole, and salsa. “Choice of soft or regular tacos. What have I missed?”

  “Maybe a pitcher of frozen margaritas?” Caryn laughed. “Though not a good idea considering the twins’ schedule.”

  “And I can’t call my sister if I get buzzed.” Lauren rolled her eyes. “It’s hard enough when she’s had one drink too many.”

  Caryn hugged Lauren. “I hope Cassie’s back home soon. Try not to worry.” They heard the garage door open. “Well, Dr. Tom must be home. I’ll take care of the table. Everything looks scrumptious, Lauren.”

  Lauren stirred the meat simmering on the stove, wishing Marty didn’t have a road trip just then. Not that I’ll ever admit it.

  23

  DAVE CALLED LAUREN as he boarded the team bus to the Garden. “Sorry I didn’t call earlier…Hectic day. Straight to the morning skate from the airport.”

  “You got your nap in?” Lauren teased him.

  “Short one. I wanted to FaceTime with you. Maybe after the game, if it’s not too late?”

  “It’s never too late! I’m expecting to see goals flying into the net. Besides, Tom, Caryn, the twins, and I are watching the game together. I think the excitement will keep the adrenaline flowing—especially when you do score.”

  Dave pictured Lauren’s inviting smile. Damn, wish she traveled with the team. “Any news about Cassie?”

  He heard Lauren’s groan. “It’s a freaking mess, Dave. She skipped classes today, isn’t answering her phone, and none of her friends know where she is. Amanda is panicked and beyond angry. She told me to butt out of things.”

  “You’re still trying to reach Cassie, though?” Dave slid into a seat near the front of the bus.

  “Leaving texts, voicemails and hoping she’ll respond soon. She’s probably hanging out with a friend Amanda doesn’t know. Maybe a new boyfriend. And no, I don’t know his name or even if she has one.”

  “You’re doing all you can right now. You do know that?” Dave nodded when he saw Andrew stop by his row and indicate the seat beside him.

  “I guess,” Lauren said. “I keep going over our conversation. Did I say something to encourage her? Just don’t know, Marty.”

  Dave detected the doubt and the guilt in her voice. “You didn’t, so don’t even go there. You are not responsible for your niece’s decisions.”

  “I hope not…sometimes, I do say things without thinking.”

  “You would never encourage her to disappear. I know you that well, Ms. Gentry.”

  Her laugh was soft. “I should have called Amanda. It’s on me for not keeping Cassie’s mother in the loop.”

  “That’s what you meant in the text about it not being a good day in your family?” Dave waited as Lauren took a deep breath.

  “Amanda went off on me. She said she could have prevented Cassie from taking off if I’d called her.”

  Dave glanced at Manhattan’s crowded sidewalks as he processed her words. He didn’t like that Amanda was blaming Lauren. He understood the instinct, but this absolutely wasn’t Lauren’s fault. “You don’t believe that?”

  “Amanda does, so that’s what matters.” She changed the subject, mentioning their new client.

  Dave pretended not to notice. “Good luck, kiddo. Talk about no filters? That’s one person who shouldn’t even touch Instagram or SnapChat.”

  Dave glanced at Andrew as he murmured. “Another client they may regret signing.”

  “Chad says ‘good luck.’”

  Lauren’s giggle in response eas
ed Dave’s concerns. A laugh accompanied “Good luck to you in the game. Don’t forget that hat trick.”

  “If it happens, it’s all for you, babe. Talk later.” Dave dropped the phone into his jacket pocket, and then glanced at Andrew. “Any update from your medical team about playing?”

  “They keep saying ‘soon.’ I don’t know how they define ‘soon,’ but I’m not skating as well as I’d like—and until I can practice with the team, I have no way to measure progress.”

  “And we all know your definition of patience, Chad.” Dave chuckled at the scowl Andrew aimed at him. “So, who needs to sign off on the next step?”

  “Every freaking member of my rehab team. I see Dan Forster next week. Going to do my best to get something concrete from him.” Andrew shrugged. “A date, a milestone he wants to see, some assessment I haven’t passed already. Feeling like a permanent healthy scratch.”

  “No chance of that. We need you on the ice, not taking a nap up in the press box.”

  #

  Dave tried to shove his concerns about Lauren and Cassie to the back of his mind when he stepped into the locker room. Focus never presented an issue until a certain girl with bewitching green eyes struggled with a problem he couldn’t solve. Moral support? Lauren worships Amanda. If she told Lauren to “butt out,” that had to cut deeply. Too early to suggest a PI? Would Lauren want to go in that direction? Would Amanda agree?

  He joined the group playing two-touch outside the locker room. It didn’t take long before the soccer ball bounced off his face, generating smirks and trash talk from his teammates.

  “At least you kept it in the air,” Steve Rogers said.

  “Whatever it takes.” Dave blinked, then swiped a finger across his eyes to clear the dust particles. “Back in a minute.” He turned and spotted the assistant trainer entering the locker room. He caught him as he’d begun setting up the training room. “Got eyedrops, Kyle?”