by Anne Stone
“Not as much as you may think. We average around fifty inches of snow a year.”
“Huh, I thought you got feet of snow.”
He chuckled listening to Miles.
“Go on, go on,” Rowena prodded him.
“I’m from a relatively large family.”
“You are, huh?” Rowena added as she sipped her cocktail.
“I’m one of seven children.”
“Seven?”
“Yes, ma’am. I have four brothers and two sisters. Three of my brothers play in the NHL while my youngest brother plays for the University of Wisconsin. My two sisters are still in school, but they also play hockey.”
“Hockey sure runs in your family.”
“It does. My dad also played professional hockey for the Storm.”
“That’s interesting,” said Rowena.
“Yep, hockey runs in the family.” Jen must have sensed his nervousness because she reached for his hand. Clasping it tightly, she squeezed it and smiled up at him.
“Go on…did you attend college or were your drafted right out of high school?”
Her grandparents listened intently as Ryne shared with them his path to the NHL. “So you got a degree?”
“Grandmother, enough with the questions. Ryne is not on trial here.”
He patted her leg. “It’s okay, honey.” He looked at Rowena, “Ask away.”
He answered all of their questions, and after about an hour Rowena proclaimed it was time for dinner. They started to follow her grandparents from the room when Jen stopped him.
“What?” he asked as he swiped his hand across his face. “Stop fretting, they’re just concerned about you.”
“This is so much worse than I ever imagined.”
He reached down and brushed a soft but simple kiss across her lips. “Come on, they are waiting for us.” He slipped his arm around her shoulders and led her in the direction of what he assumed was the kitchen. “Rowena,” he called out. “Something sure smells good.”
Jen elbowed him in the ribs. “Hey, what was that for?”
“Enough with the brownie points.”
He let out a boisterous laugh as they entered the kitchen.
“What’s so funny?” Miles asked as he reached for a bottle of wine.
“Ah nothing, Grandfather.”
The rest of their meal went off without a hitch. They discussed their trip to visit his parents and the Black Gold party. His thoughts drifted to his parents and wondered how they would treat Jen upon their first meeting. He hadn’t heard Jen’s question until he felt her hand on his arm. “Hey, you didn’t tell me Ashley Regada was Ashley Hamilton and she was married to Morgan Cameron.”
“Why?”
“Well, she and her husband bought the mansion from my grandparents.”
He was confused. “I’m not quite following you.” He listened as Rowena told the story of Morgan buying their home for Ashley. How they’d kept it a secret until they were married.
“We lived in the home right up until they were married.” Rowena paused. “Such a shame— a life lost too soon.”
Ryne had heard about the death of Morgan Cameron. He’d been rushing back from New York after winning the last leg of the Grand Slam when he’d been killed in an accident. Adam had shared with him the heartfelt story of how Ashley and Tony Regada endured the grief of losing a husband and best friend on the way to finding their own happily ever after.
“Ashley’s been through so much in her life. She lost the baby the night of Morgan’s death and lived through such tragedy with the death of her father and the constant threats against her life. She’s such a strong woman, someone we should all look up to.”
He waited for Rowena to finish her thoughts when she abruptly jumped up.
“I thought we’d have after dinner drinks and dessert in the conservatory,” she said. “Give me a minute to clear the table.”
“Rowena, that meal was phenomenal. Let Jen and me take charge of clearing the table.”
Rowena approached him and laid her hand upon his arm. “You’re our guest this evening. Sit right there and I’ll be back.” He raised his brow at Jen and quirked a smile, not wanting to create a scene. Jen also jumped from her seat, grabbing their plates as she followed her grandmother to the kitchen.
“That was quite a meal, Miles.”
“Yes, my Ro loves to entertain.” He stood and motioned for Ryne to follow him. “Ro’ll know where to find us.” Miles led him through a set of French doors into the conservatory. He immediately fell in love with the glassed-in room. His eyes were drawn to the ceiling that was encased in glass. He could image sitting in the darkness, in the comfort of this room, looking out the roof. He was certain they’d be able to stargaze and watch the Perseid Meteor shower along with the Northern lights.
“I always thought conservatories were mainly found in botanical gardens.”
“You definitely see them there, but they are becoming popular in homes. Outside of the tennis court, this is my favorite room in the house. I love to relax in here, especially at night when I can stargaze and not have to worry about the cold weather.”
Miles took a seat on the rattan couch and motioned for Ryne to join him. He was taken aback when Miles leaned over and whispered, “Don’t mind Ro. She’s just looking out for our Jennifer. Someone needs to.”
He laughed at her grandfather. “That was definitely an inquisition I faced.”
“Yep, it was. She loves that girl something fierce and worries constantly about her. After her parents died, she tried to convince her to move in with us, but Jennifer was adamant about living in her home. I’ve got to hand it to my granddaughter. She’s got spunk and does her best to keep up a front for us, but I know that she still suffers from losing her mother and father.” Miles stopped and shook his head. “Her life changed forever that evening. With their loss and then the decision to not follow her father into the business… I often wonder if she made the wrong choice. When I think back on those days, I almost believe she should have taken some time out and not gone to school.”
“I would think going to school was good for her. It got her out.”
“You’re right, it did, but it also convinced her to give up on her dreams. My son was a world class photographer. He had an eye and Jennifer was just like him. I often wonder where she’d be if she followed her heart, took over the business, and did what she loved best. Don’t get me wrong, I know how well-loved she is as a teacher, but I just don’t get the feeling it’s where her heart is these days. It’s just a feeling this old man has, but I’ve seen the light wane in her eyes as she talks about Lakeview. Her passion isn’t what it once was.”
Ryne listened intently and realized how in tune he was to her. Maybe it was time for her to make the change and follow her heart. He made a mental note to take her to his special place on the ranch. There he hoped to have that conversation with her and convince her to take a chance and follow her dreams.
He was pulled from his thoughts when he heard Rowena calling out. “Who wants coffee? Or would you rather have something stronger?”
“I think that was meant for you, son. Would you care for an after-dinner liqueur? You just might need it.” He was referring to his wife and her incessant questioning.
“Coffee’s just fine.”
“Are you sure about that? She may not be through with her questions for the evening.” Miles snickered.
“Don’t worry about me. I’m up to the challenge.”
They enjoyed a luscious cheesecake that Rowena had made from scratch. “That was some cheesecake. Best I’ve ever had.”
“Thank you, Ryne. It was nothing. I love making them, and I always have one in the freezer for special occasions. Do you have plans for your stay with your parents?”
He caught Jen’s eye as her grandmother started back in with him. He knew she was just making idle conversation. “I think we’re just going to take it easy. I haven’t been home in some time, and all of my fa
mily will be there. I hope we don’t overwhelm Jen. My family can be a bit much at times.”
“I can imagine, with five boys,” Miles said. “I guess it’s all about hockey?”
“Miles, to answer your question, this time of year it’s all about the ranch. My parents own a cattle ranch, so when I’m home I’m usually on horseback, helping out with mending fences, taking care of the cattle, whatever’s necessary.”
“Huh. That sounds like a tough job.”
“It can be, but I really enjoy it. I miss riding through the hills. When I get on horseback, a sense of calm overcomes me. It’s just so peaceful out there. It’s quiet. I can’t explain it, but I love it. I feel like I leave all my troubles behind. We have a stream that runs through the ranch, and my dad’s worked with rangeland specialists to insure that we maintain the land. He’s planted various shrubs, grasses, wildflowers…When the flowers are in bloom it’s a sight to see. The hillsides are an array of color. Beautiful is all I can say.”
“Kind of like driving through South Dakota when the sunflowers are all in bloom. It’s a beautiful sight.”
“That it is, Rowena. I hope some of the flowers are blooming when we’re there. Quite a few of the varieties bloom in June, so I know Jen would do them justice with her camera lens.”
“I’m not so sure about that,” Jen said.
“I am. You’ve got an eye, that’s for sure.” Turning towards Rowena, he said, “You should see some of the photos of the team she’s taken for the school’s fundraiser. There’s this one where she’s caught the spray of ice flying through the air.”
“Well,” Rowena said, “that doesn’t surprise me in the least. Her father was one hell of a photographer, and she certainly has his skills.”
“Grandmother.”
“It’s true, dear and I wish you hadn’t given up that dream.” He caught a sadness flash across her face, and that’s when he decided to call it a night. It was getting late and he knew they’d have an even later evening the following day. He waited a moment before he stifled a yawn.
“It’s getting late and I need to call for a car. I’m sure it’ll be at least an hour before one arrives.” He retreated from the room, leaving Jen and her grandparents alone. After Rowena’s comment, he knew he needed to get her out of there.
It had been an enlightening evening to say the least. He hadn’t been prepared for Rowena and her questions, but as he replayed the night, he believed she’d been interviewing him— much like Jen’s father would have been assessing him. He hoped he passed the test because Jen meant the world to him.
Before his thoughts could linger any further, he heard the reservationist asking for his location. Their car would be there shortly, so he hurried towards the conservatory, and that’s when he heard Rowena’s voice.
“My dear, I think you’ve got a winner there. He’s so polite even when I pushed him with all of my questions.”
“That he is.”
“And my dear, he is so in love with you. I can tell those things, you know.” He heard Miles chuckling at his wife’s words. “With the way he looks at you. It’s priceless, the emotion I see in him. I approve.”
“Ro, you mean we approve. You have our blessings, dear, for whatever may come of this relationship. I can tell he has your best interests at heart.”
“That he does, Grandfather. Ryne means the world to me, and thank you for approving of him. I can’t wait to meet his family. If they are anything like he is…”
“Then they’ll be keepers.”
He heard a pause in the conversation, and he called out before entering the room so they’d be sure and not say anything they wouldn’t want him to hear. “The car should be here in about ten minutes. A driver was in the area.”
“That fast, huh?”
“It’s better than waiting hours.”
“You’re right.” She reached for her grandmother’s hand. “Thank you for a lovely evening. I don’t think we’ll have a chance to come by again before we leave. Our plane takes off pretty early Sunday morning.”
“That’s fine, dear. Just stay in touch like you always do.”
“You don’t have to worry about that.”
Just as they stood, the doorbell rang, signifying their car had arrived. Rowena pulled Jen into her arms.
“I love you, Grandmother.”
“Not as much as I love you, dear. Thank you for coming this evening.”
While Jen and Rowena were saying their goodbyes, Miles approached Ryne with an outstretched hand. “It was good to meet you, Ryne. Take care of our granddaughter.”
“Don’t you worry, sir, I will,” he said shaking his hand.
Then Rowena approached him with outstretched arms. “Come here, you.” She wrapped her arms around him. “You’re good for my girl.” In a stage whisper she said into his ear, “I know you love her. I can see it in your eyes.” He nodded and out of the corner of his eye saw Jen depart the room. “Help her find her way. I think she’s been lost for a long time and I know you’re the one to point her in the right direction. Back to the life she once knew and walked away from.” Pulling away from him she added, “She loves you too, so what are you going to do about it?”
He pulled in his lips, preventing his smile and shook his head. Her grandmother was a piece of work who had her granddaughter’s best interests at heart. “I’m not quite sure yet, but you will definitely be one of the first to know.”
She slapped at his arm.
“We’d better be.” And with that the doorbell rang again.
“We’d better head on out of here before we lose our driver. It was definitely nice meeting both of you.”
Ryne met up with Jen. Reaching for her hand, he laced their fingers and walked out the door. All in all, it had been a good evening. Questions were asked and answered and a future with her had been approved. When the time came for him to ask her the all-important question, he had no doubts that he’d receive the approval from both sets of grandparents.
Chapter Nineteen
Ryne woke the next morning thinking about the night before. He made his way to the kitchenette where he made himself a horrid cup of coffee. He needed half-way decent coffee, so he phoned room service where he ordered two pots and an array of breakfast rolls.
Room service was quick and his first sip was a jolt to his system, and he instantly felt better. He sat down to read the complimentary paper, but he pushed it aside. He couldn’t concentrate on the latest box office scores as his mind traveled back to dinner. Even though Rowena asked a boat load of questions, he truly loved Jen’s grandparents and left their home feeling accepted.
He recognized their concern over Jen’s career and would address it when he spoke with her. In his mind, he could picture the pond where he planned to hold their conversation. It was somewhat removed from the house. In fact, when he thought about it, he couldn’t remember how they cleared the snow when they’d played pick-up hockey. That’s when he remembered the old tractor his father had retrofitted with a snow blade. How could I forget that? Memories of those good times flashed before him, and he didn’t realize she’d entered the room until he felt her hair brush his neck as she leaned over his back, placing a kiss along his neck.
“Good morning,” she murmured. “Did you sleep well?”
Sleep. How could I sleep when a million and one things were running through my head? “Slept like a log. What about you?”
“I think I had a little too much wine last night.”
“Headache?” he asked, turning to pull her onto his lap. She nodded. “Sit tight. I’ll get you something for it.” He set her in his seat then rushed to his room to retrieve the pain reliever. He returned with a glass of cold water. “Here you go,” he said as he dropped two pills into her hand. “I think we should take it easy today. I expect another late night.”
Nodding her head, she said. “I would assume so.” She reached for his cup of coffee and took a sip. “This is so good.”
“It is, esp
ecially since you’re drinking mine.” She raised her brow at his comment. “Don’t worry, I have plenty.” He pointed to the two huge carafes. “I needed it myself this morning. I guess your grandparents got to me a little more than I thought. I woke up feeling like I’d been run over by a train.”
“They can do that to you, especially Grandma Rowena. See, I told you it wasn’t going to be easy.”
“It definitely wasn’t a walk in the park, but I understand why they asked so many questions. They were vetting me, and in the end, I think I passed the test, at least I hope I did.”
“You more than passed. I think my grandmother’s in love with you.”
“I wouldn’t go that far, but I think I’m on the right side of the tracks.”
She pulled him close and nuzzled his chest.
“Comfortable?” he asked.
“Um hmm. I could sit like this the remainder of the day. Wrapped in your arms I feel so protected.” She raised her head, kissing his chin. “So loved.”
Before he could say another word, his phone rang. Reaching for it, he saw Philippe’s name pop up on the screen. “I’ve got to get this, okay?”
“Yeah,” she climbed off his lap as he answered the call and returned to her room to give him privacy for his conversation.
“Philippe, what’s up?” It wasn’t unusual for him to call, but Ryne was surprised especially with his pending arrival the next day. He shook his head as he listened. His brother was out of sorts, rambling on and on about nothing in particular. After ten minutes without getting a word in edgewise, Ryne told him he needed to run. “Jen and I arrive on an early morning flight. We’re flying out of Newark and should get there around noon. Can we talk then?” He heard his brother grumble a goodbye and the line went dead.
He was concerned about Philippe. Even though he’d had a record season for the Storm, he continued to carry his grief with him. Ryne didn’t know how he handled the memories day in and day out. It had been five long years, and he knew his brother still hadn’t gotten over the death of his wife. He and Annabelle had been returning from their honeymoon when a wrong way driver hit them head on, killing her instantly. Philippe had sustained lacerations and broken ribs. but for the most part he came out unscathed. He hadn’t been the same since that fateful day. Ryne knew he was the shoulder his brother leaned on when the memories became too much.