[Clearing the Ice 01.0] This Piece of My Heart

by Robyn M Ryan

  “Everything okay over here?” Andrew’s brother appeared at his shoulder.

  Andrew deliberately turned his back on Pearson. “Yep. Everything’s just fine, Tom.”

  Tom watched as Pearson quickly moved away. “What was that about? Who’s the guy you just castrated?”

  Andrew shrugged with a slight smile. “Putting someone on notice.” He saw his brother’s unspoken question. “He fucked around with Caryn a couple times.”

  Tom glanced at Pearson. “Looks like he got the message. Didn’t waste any time putting space between you two.”

  Andrew glanced over his shoulder, then shook his head with a cold laugh. “That type’s only a tough guy when he’s picking on women.”

  “So, where is she? You’ve been stood up?”

  “Hardly.” Andrew ordered drinks, handed Tom a beer, and nodded toward the courtyard. “We’re sitting outside.” He took his and Caryn’s drinks and led Tom through the crowded restaurant. He paused at the open doorway and nodded toward the table where Caryn waited.

  Tom nudged him with a grin. “Younger than I expected. Student?”

  “Yep, but not too young.”

  Andrew saw Caryn’s eyes light up when she saw them approach, directing a shy smile at Tom. Andrew set the drinks on the table and pulled his chair close to hers. He placed his arm around her shoulders as they sat down, making introductions.

  “I’m glad to meet you, Tom. Drew’s told me a lot about you.”

  “He’s done a bit of talking about you, too.”

  Andrew smiled as he watched Caryn’s cheeks flush. He pulled her toward him so he could press his lips against her temple,

  “So, you’re in medical school?” Caryn asked.

  “Just starting my internship rotations—pediatrics, at the moment.” Tom smiled as he sipped his beer.

  “Have you decided if you’ll specialize?”

  “I’m not sure yet," Tom said. “Maybe neurology, internal medicine…or even pediatrics.”

  “You like kids?”

  “I think so. We’ll see if I feel the same after this semester.”

  “I love kids,” Caryn said with a wistful smile. “I hated being an only child. I always wanted brothers and sisters.”

  Andrew squeezed her shoulder as he set his drink on the table. “No problem. I’ll share my brother with you,” he said as he pushed his chair back. “I’ll be back in a minute.”

  ***

  Tom watched his brother walk inside, and then looked at Caryn. “Not sure he thought that one through—if you’re my sister...”

  “Maybe honorary big brother?” Caryn suggested with a smile.

  Much younger than he’d expected, Caryn was definitely beautiful, but in a natural, unforced way. He noted her petite, yet alluring figure that was enhanced by the simple yellow shirt and jeans; the blonde hair that tumbled about her shoulders; the striking amber eyes that sparkled as she suggested the honorary big brother designation.

  “That works. You from Toronto?” Tom questioned.

  “No, Ottawa.”

  “Live on campus?”

  “I have a townhouse by campus. I can walk just about everywhere. How about you?”

  “Still at home. With my hours, it doesn’t make much sense to get an apartment. I sleep more at the hospital than at home, anyway. What are you hoping to do with your degree?”

  “Probably go to the States for an MBA, then work at my father’s company.” Caryn said, rolling her eyes. “He’s already mapped my career path.”

  “What business is he in?”

  “Acquisitions.” Caryn reached for her wine and sipped her almost-empty glass.

  “As in?”

  “He buys companies or groups of companies. He invests in improving the business structure, then either sells at a profit or adds it to his portfolio.” She shrugged. “That’s the short explanation.”

  “You looking forward to that career?”

  Tom watched as Caryn paused a long moment as she considered his question. “Not sure. Haven’t ever really thought about it. Guess I’ll find out whenever I’m through with this education.”

  “Did Andrew tell you he could have gone to Boston College, the University of Michigan or Minnesota on scholarship?”

  “No, but that doesn't surprise me.”

  “Not sure what he’s told you about our family. Our dad is…was an electrician. He had an accident about five years ago and hasn’t been able to work since. Andrew decided to sign with the Leafs instead of taking a scholarship because the bonus covered a lot of expenses and then I could go to medical school. Unfortunately, I have zero talent when it comes to sports, and there was no chance I’d get a scholarship.”

  “I didn’t know about your dad’s accident. That must have been devastating.”

  “Yeah, pretty much. Andrew felt he needed to take on the financial support for the family. I’m not sure if he’d have played college hockey or joined the Leafs had Dad not been disabled. His contract has relieved a lot of stress on our parents.”

  Caryn nodded as she processed Tom’s words. “Thank you for sharing that. I’m not sure Drew would tell me.”

  “How’d you two meet, anyway?”

  Caryn laughed lightly, her eyes suddenly sparkling. “He didn’t tell you?” Tom could only shake his head in bewilderment at her reaction. Caryn grinned. “I’ll just say that he swept me off my feet. You’ll have to get the rest of the story from him.”

  Caryn looked up as Andrew lightly brushed her hair as he stepped beside her.

  “Refill?”

  “I’m good.” She patted the chair beside hers. “Sit down.”

  “You still running every day?” Tom asked, as Andrew handed a menu to Caryn.

  “I’m doing five or ten in the morning before it gets too hot, then I’m either skating or working out with weights every afternoon. It’ll be time for camp before long.”

  “When does the team start training camp?” Caryn’s voice was soft.

  “Some of us will start full workouts early September. I like to get as much time on the ice as possible before the entire team reports.”

  Caryn looked at him. “How long does it last?”

  “Until the end of September, then we head to Germany for the exhibition games against the European Elite League. We also play the Kings and the Sabres in Europe. I think we get back around the middle of October for our home opener.”

  ***

  Andrew saw Caryn’s expression change for just an instant when he mentioned the trip to Europe. Is she upset about that trip? Probably should have mentioned it before now. But it’s over a month away. Hockey hasn’t been exactly at the front of my mind lately. Sure, I’m looking forward to the new season, but I want these summer days to pass slowly. He saw Caryn avert her gaze but not before glimpsing her quickly flick her fingers under her eyes.

  Andrew leaned toward her. “Hey, you’re not going to forget about me, are you?” His attempt to make her laugh fell flat when she shook her head, blinking back sudden tears.

  “Of course not.” Her voice was hoarse as she looked at him, the amber eyes reproachful. She grasped her glass of water, taking a long sip before she changed the subject back to Tom’s internship.

  Andrew watched as she continued her conversation with Tom, telling himself that it was foolish to have these strong feelings for someone he’d only known a few weeks. She was beautiful, and Andrew admitted that this was what had attracted him at first. He could see why some guys would expect her to reciprocate their attraction to her. She radiated self-confidence at first encounter, and it was only after being with her and talking with her that her vulnerability and youthful innocence were revealed. People like that jerk would never take the time to get past the initial attraction.

  But these qualities made Caryn so special to him. He saw the shyness, the lack of pretension, the open trust; he sensed how vulnerable she was, and more than anything else, Andrew wanted to protect her from those who’d destroy her
trust without even realizing it. He knew others had to recognize these qualities in Caryn—no way could he be the first. He thought back to that kiss and her reaction…and his realization that he didn’t want to rush the relationship.

  Surely she’d been with other guys. He’d been hesitant to initiate that discussion. He really didn’t want to admit to the dozens of casual nights spent with women he barely remembered. And he really had no desire to hear about any past guys in her life. Besides, they were just getting to know each other.

  He sensed her experience was limited—or was that wishful thinking on his part? She did make him feel as though he was the first guy she’d ever dated more than a few times. Maybe her parents controlled her social life as much as they did her academic path? Either way, he’d never known anyone like Caryn, and the emotions he felt for her were new, and surprisingly intense.

  SIX

  The phone’s persistent ringing dragged Caryn from a deep sleep the next morning. Andrew’s ring tone. She sat up, glancing at the clock as she reached for her phone, surprised it was so late.

  “Did I wake you?” His voice teased her gently.

  “This is better than the alarm.” Caryn lay back against the pillow. “I must have overdone it last night. I don’t usually sleep until nine. I suppose you’ve already gotten ten kilometers in.”

  “Hardly. I was up as late as you were. Tom’s the one you should feel sorry for. He had to be at the hospital at seven.”

  “I enjoyed last night, Drew. Tom’s a really good person.”

  “You have any plans today?”

  “Not really. I need to work on that marketing paper, but I don’t want to. Why?”

  “Can you be ready for me to pick you up in ten minutes?”

  “I could, but you won’t like what you see,” Caryn said. “How about thirty minutes? Where are we going?”

  “It’s a surprise.”

  Caryn shoved the sheets aside and stood, walking toward the bathroom and frowning at her reflection in the mirror. “Let’s make that forty-five minutes. What should I wear?”

  “Whatever you want. Maybe jeans. I’ll bring breakfast, so don’t fix anything. You sure about forty-five minutes?” She heard the teasing tone in his voice.

  “I’ll be ready.”

  Intrigued by the unusual invitation, Caryn quickly showered and dressed in a pair of faded denim jeans and a blue gingham checked shirt. She applied a little makeup, dabbed some perfume on her wrists, and then brushed her hair before deciding to pull it away from her face in a French braid. She grabbed a pair of socks before heading down the stairs in search of her shoes.

  She heard his car stop out front and opened the door as he came up the walk.

  “Ready?”

  “Almost. Just need to get my shoes.”

  “Still out on the patio where you left them the last time we played tennis?”

  “Probably.”

  Andrew playfully lifted the braided hair off her neck. “I’ll get them.”

  Caryn sat and pulled on her socks, shaking her head with a laugh when he returned holding the shoes. “Good thing it hasn’t rained.” She slipped into the shoes and reached for his hand as he pulled her to her feet.

  “You look terrific,” he said, leaning to kiss her gently. “I like your hair.”

  “Thanks.” She grinned up at him, the complement making her feel warm all over. “What are we going to do?”

  “You’ll know soon.”

  “Do I need anything?”

  “Nah, I’ll hold on to your keys for you.” She locked the door and Andrew shoved the keys into his pocket as they walked toward the car. He opened the door, reached in and handed a paper bag and a Diet Coke to her as she sat down. “Breakfast.”

  Caryn laughed as she opened the bag, selecting a warm bagel. “Want one?” she asked as he slid in the seat beside her.

  “Blueberry’s good.”

  “What? No chocolate chip muffins?”

  “In training, remember?” he said, taking a bite before starting the car.

  “Is this yours?” Caryn nodded toward the other bottle in the cup holder. “Shall I open it for you?”

  “Thanks.” He glanced at her. “So how do you like my culinary skills?”

  “Impressive.”

  He took a drink of his Coke when they stopped at an intersection near the university. He set the bottle back in the drink holder and brushed his hand against her temple, lightly fingering a few golden strands that fell against her forehead. He leaned to kiss her briefly, chuckling when the honking of the cars behind them signaled that the light had changed.

  “All right, all right.” He turned into the entrance to the park that was near the university. He pulled into a parking space near the bike path, turning off the car, and looked at Caryn. “Ready to help me train?”

  “I don’t think I can keep up with you running. I don’t mind waiting here. I can sit over there.” She nodded toward a nearby picnic table.

  “I’m not running. Come on, I’ll show you.” They got out of the car and Caryn watched him open the trunk, her eyes widening in surprise when he handed a pair of inline skates to her.

  “I’ve never…”

  “You can ice skate. It’s basically the same; I’ll help you. You won’t go with me to the training facility.”

  “I’m not going to embarrass myself in front of your teammates.”

  “You wouldn’t. As I was saying, since you won’t ice skate with me, I thought we’d try it on pavement.”

  “I’ll kill myself.”

  “You won’t. I’ll help you.” He grabbed his skates plus an assortment of pads and nodded toward the nearby bench.

  Caryn was skeptical as she pulled on her skates, gratefully accepting the kneepads and wrist guards he offered. “How’d you know my size?”

  “I cheated and looked at your shoes last week.” He took the wrist guard from her and showed her how to put it on.

  “Don’t you wear any pads?”

  “Just don’t knock me down. I’d have a hard time explaining it if I broke my arm.” He finished putting on his skates, then stood, taking their shoes in his hands. “I’ll put these in the trunk.”

  “I’m not moving.” She watched as he walked to the car, tossing the shoes in the trunk, and sliding the keys into his pocket before returning to her side.

  “This is a great time to skate. There’s no one on the path.”

  “I’m going to break my neck,” Caryn warned him.

  “No, I’ll get you going. Give me your hand.” He grasped her right hand tightly, pulling her to her feet and slipping his left hand around her waist. “Just walk over to the bike path. Small steps.”

  She grasped his waist when they reached the smooth pavement, hooking her fingers in his belt loops, feeling her feet sliding out from under her.

  Andrew’s arm held her securely. “Get your balance. Just stand still for a couple minutes. I’ve got you.” He waited patiently until he felt her fingers relax, then gradually lessened his grip on her waist. “See? You’re not falling.”

  “Not moving either.”

  Andrew laughed quietly. “Just remember it’s like ice skating. Hold my arm.”

  Caryn marveled at his patience as he helped her get acclimated to the skates, surprising herself when she reluctantly released her death-grip on his arm to skate a few steps by herself. “How do I stop?”

  “Just glide, Cary. You’re not headed downhill. You’ll stop.”

  His words proved true, and Caryn turned her head slightly to look at him. A smile crossed her face. “This isn’t so bad.”

  He stepped beside her and took her hand. “I’ll skate with you. You’re doing great.”

  Gradually she relaxed and began to find a rhythm in the movements, yet she was unwilling to release Andrew’s hand. “You’re going to be skating circles around me in no time,” he said when they stopped to rest. “Just like tennis, you’ll humiliate me.”

  “You make it look so
easy. I can’t wait to see you in a hockey game.”

  “Won’t be too long.” Andrew glanced down the bike path to see if anyone was coming, and then grasped her hands, pulling her toward him as he skated backwards. “Okay, I’m turning you loose.”

  Caryn didn’t protest this time, feeling more confident, peering past him to see what might be on the path. “Shouldn’t you turn around?”

  Andrew glanced over his shoulder briefly, and then looked at her again. “I’d rather watch you.”

  “Well, don’t blame me if you break your neck.”

  Gradually, without Caryn even realizing it, he increased their speed, staying a stride or two in front of her, finally acquiescing to her protests and turning around. He took her hand and moved beside her.

  “You sure you’ve never skated before?”

  “Just on ice.” Caryn turned her head to glance up at him. At that moment, her left skate struck a stone, causing her to stumble and lose her balance. Andrew grabbed her arms as she started to fall, but her skates tangled with his, and both stumbled. Andrew pulled her toward him as he fell on his back on the grass beside the bike path, causing her to land on him rather than on the concrete.

  “Drew, I’m sorry,” Caryn said as she tried to untangle their feet, glancing at him, as he didn’t appear to be helping the process. “Are you okay?”

  He opened an eye and looked at her. “Are you going to be the one to tell the coach you broke my leg because you didn’t look where you were going?”

  “Andrew, it’s not broken, is it? I’m… let me get…” She broke off as the laughter erupted from his mouth, his chest contracting with laughter. She punched him playfully. “That wasn’t funny! I thought you were hurt.”

  “I’m fine.” He sat up, gently moving her to the ground beside him, and then reached to untangle their skates. “Are you okay, Cary?”

  “Yes, I will be as soon as my heart stops pounding. I really thought your leg was broken.”

  “Sorry, I couldn’t resist.” He rubbed the base of his spine. “Just going to be a little sore later.”