by Robyn M Ryan
“Nothing. I’d just left the bathroom…never had one come on like this. Felt like a knife slicing through my forehead. I couldn’t even walk.”
“Let’s do a few tests and see how you’re doing neurologically.”
Andrew squeezed her hand before he stepped back, and then watched as Forster ran through a series of eerily familiar tests. He observed Dan’s body language as he made a few notations on the chart.
“Out of an overabundance of caution, I’m scheduling another MRI, Caryn. I just want to rule out any complications from the concussion.”
Andrew saw Caryn’s eyes dart to his, and he smiled reassuringly. “Ruling out…?”
“I don’t expect to find anything, Andrew. The first scan was normal. I was coming by to sign your discharge papers, Caryn. Let’s get this scan, then I will admit you for twenty-four hours or until this migraine’s under control.”
“Why…what do you suspect?” Caryn asked, her voice hoarse with apprehension.
“Nothing,” the physician said firmly. “I’ll order some pain meds that Dr. Turner approves, then we’ll get you right in for the MRI,” Forster said. “Andrew, this would be a good time to stop by admitting. You can’t go into the MRI, so take care of it—and get yourself some food.”
Andrew touched Caryn’s cheek. “Okay with you, babe?”
Her amber eyes smiled as she replied. “Fine. We’ll be here when you return.” She patted her abdomen with a smile.
Andrew mechanically provided the admission information requested, digging in his wallet for the insurance card, distracted by his desire to return to Caryn as quickly as possible. He signed the guarantor forms distractedly, nodded impatiently as the admitting clerk explained the billing procedures, and then returned the insurance card and ID to his wallet as he stood.
Kelly and Terri entered the hospital just as he crossed the lobby. He stopped and greeted them with a slight smile. “Lauren call you?”
Terri answered, “Actually, your brother. He’s frustrated he can’t leave the ER, so we volunteered to act as your backup.”
“You guys didn’t need to do this.”
“We wanted to,” Kelly said firmly. “We’ll be your gophers—tell us what you need and we’ll get it, so you don’t need to leave Caryn. We brought lunch and some drinks.”
“Thank you,” Andrew said as they walked to the elevators. “The only reason I’m down here is because Dan sent me to admissions while Caryn has an MRI.”
“Tom gave us the basics—mild concussion,” Terri began, but Andrew continued for her.
“She just had an ultrasound. The baby is just fine, no problems there. While we were waiting for the results, Caryn developed an incapacitating migraine. Dan just ordered a second MRI to confirm it isn’t related to the concussion. He’s admitting her as a precaution.”
“A migraine on top of everything else,” Kelly shook her head. “Do you need us to call anyone?”
“Nah. I think everyone who needs to know right now is in the loop,” Andrew replied. “I did speak with Lauren. There’s some issue about that contract…Caryn had a two o’clock meeting at McRainey. Lauren said she’d handle it. If you could just touch base with her, I can update Caryn if she asks.”
“Absolutely. We have her number,” Terri said as Andrew reached for his phone. They stepped off the elevator and Andrew showed them to the waiting area. “I’ll keep you posted as I can.”
Kelly pressed the small cooler into his hands. “Remember, we’re your gophers. Just text if you need anything. Give Caryn a gentle hug for us.”
“Will do. Thanks, guys.”
Forster was waiting for Andrew outside the treatment room. “She’s doing fine, Andrew. The MRI was fine. She experienced some vomiting while you were gone, but that is not unusual with head injuries, pregnancy, or migraines. A combination of the three can play havoc with her body.”
“Is the migraine any better?”
“We’re giving her pain and anti-nausea medication through the IV. Don’t be concerned if she’s sleepy or confused—normal side effects of the combination of the meds. But, neurologically, she’s fine. The baby’s fine. We’ll keep a close watch and see how she feels tomorrow.”
Andrew nodded, absorbing the information. “So, no danger of swelling or bleeding?”
“I don’t anticipate either. We’ll do more tests if we see any symptoms.” He clapped a hand on Andrew’s arm. “She’s in good hands, Chad.”
“Thanks, Dan.” Andrew slid the curtain aside to enter the treatment cubicle. He carefully sat on the side of the bed and leaned to kiss her forehead.
“About time you got back.”
A wave of relief washed through Andrew when he heard her speak. “Quick MRI.”
“Friends in high places,” she replied, a bit of a smile crossing her face.
“Feeling better, Cary? Dan said you were sick to your stomach.” Andrew rested his palm against her cheek.
“I’m blessed with the trifecta on vomiting right now.”
“He said you’re receiving medications for pain and nausea.” He brushed his hand against her forehead. “Go ahead and take a nap, Cary. I’m staying with you.”
Caryn’s eyes drifted shut. “So sleepy.” Andrew dropped his hand to her shoulder and gently ran his fingers against the edge of her gown until she slept. He saw the ultrasound pictures by her hand and he picked them up, looking at them in wonder. He still had trouble grasping the reality he held in his hand. I need to make everything right with Caryn so we can truly welcome this child into a family.
He felt a phone vibrate in his pocket and looked down when he grabbed it. Caryn’s. He swiped the screen and entered the code. Text messages. McRainey. McRainey. McRainey. They know she’s at the hospital and still keep sending texts? He swiped the most recent one. This Wesley guy…extremely dense. “Where can we meet to get the contract signed?” Fucking crazy. His finger hovered over the screen, his anger threatening to spill over into a reply. After a long moment, he touched the “Do not disturb” icon and tossed the phone aside. Andrew knew if Wesley showed up, he’d never get near the treatment area.
Instead, he grabbed his own phone and sent Tom a text, asking him to stop by when he had a break. A smile crossed his face when he anticipated Tom’s reaction to learning he’d soon be an uncle. Not for the first time, the thought of Tom staying in their guest suite raised his comfort level. Next, he sent a quick message to Lauren, asking her to please tell Wesley he would not gain access to the treatment area. God help him if I catch him anywhere near Caryn.
23
As Caryn continued to sleep, Andrew left her room to touch base with Kelly and Terri. They both stood when he entered the waiting area, concern in their expressions. He quickly updated them on Caryn’s condition. “I guess they’re working on a room right now.”
“Can we get you anything, Andrew?” Terri asked.
“Nah, I’m good. I have the meal you packed.”
“Do you need anything from your room?”
Andrew hesitated. Phone charger? Shower? Change of clothes? Something for Caryn other than that gown? “Would you mind sitting with her for ten-fifteen minutes? She’s not likely to wake up, but I don’t want her to be alone if she does.”
“Of course. Do we need permission?”
“I’ll take care of it.” He led them into the unit and introduced them to Caryn’s nurse. Once he confirmed Caryn still slept soundly, he headed to the elevator. Once on the main floor, he detoured past the ER hoping to catch Tom during a free moment. At that moment, Tom pushed the door open and raised his hand when he saw Andrew.
“Just on my way to see you. How’s Caryn?”
Andrew nodded. “Dan decided to admit her—a major migraine and some vomiting. Terri and Kelly are with her right now. You have time to go to my room?” Andrew turned the corner to head toward the passage tunnel between the hospital and the Rehab Center. Tom grabbed his arm.
“I’ll drive. The car’s just outsid
e.”
Once in the car, Andrew summarized Caryn’s condition and then dropped the surprise news. “And…you’re going to be an uncle in about five months.”
Tom pulled into the parking space and looked at him. “You’re kidding.”
Andrew climbed from the car, a smile on his face. “Not a chance. You didn’t know?”
“Not a clue.” They walked toward the entry. “Though, looking back, I guess I should have wondered if the nausea was due to something other than carsickness or stress.”
Andrew shrugged. “So long as you assure me you aced pediatrics, we’ll keep that between us.” A smirk crossed his face.
“Not a problem, brother. Congratulations!” Tom paused a moment. “And everything’s okay with the baby?”
“So far.” Andrew pushed the door open and walked to the elevator
Tom nudged Andrew as they stepped off the elevator. “Wait until Mom and Dad hear the news.”
“Yeah, I thought about that. We haven’t had a chance to discuss when we want to start making those calls.”
“No shit. You’ve known how long? And dealing with a concussion, MRIs, and now a migraine?” Tom bit back a laugh. “I’d say that’s a topic for another day.”
Tom accompanied his brother back to Caryn’s treatment area. Dan Forster met them just outside the unit.
“She’s good, Andrew,” the physician spoke quickly. “She had another bout of vomiting, but as we discussed before, it could be a combination of factors. Neurologically, she’s fine.”
“Is she awake?”
“Off and on. A little confusion—remember that’s normal with the medication she’s receiving. Sleep is the best medicine for her right now.” Forster looked at Tom. “Don’t tell me you’re requesting a transfer to pediatrics?”
Tom laughed briefly. “Hardly.” He clapped a hand on Andrew’s shoulder. “Give Caryn a hug—and let me know if you need anything.”
Andrew nodded. “Thanks, Tom.”
“I’ll be around, Andrew,” Forster added. “I’ll check in with you and Caryn after she’s assigned a room, unless the situation changes.”
Andrew pushed aside the curtain and entered the room. Terri and Kelly immediately stood and walked toward him.
“She’s sleeping right now,” Kelly said quietly.
“I wouldn’t have left if I’d thought she’d wake up. Thanks for being here.”
Terri hugged him briefly. “We’ll be around if you need us.”
“It’s getting late. Why don’t you head home?”
“No reason to go home,” Kelly said. “John and Steve are at camp. We’re fine. Remember, we’re your gophers.”
He smiled as Kelly hugged him also. “Thank you.”
He stepped to Caryn’s side, carefully perching on the side of the bed. Her amber eyes flickered open a bit, managing a hint of a smile when she saw him. He leaned to kiss her forehead as her hand grasped his arm.
“Feeling better, angel? Dan said you were sick again.”
“It’s okay, Drew. It comes and goes.” He saw the fatigue in her features as well as the pain that creased her forehead.
“Headache easing?”
Caryn lifted her arm slightly and waved her hand back and forth. “Depends on the definition of better.”
“I told Tom…Surprised, but excited. Said to give you a gentle hug.”
“Rain check?” Caryn asked. “Uncle Tommy. Suits him.”
Andrew laughed quietly. “He’ll brush up on his pediatrics, I bet.”
He handed her the denim shirt he’d grabbed from his closet. “Thought you might like a little more coverage than those drafty gowns.”
Caryn held it to her face and inhaled the scent. “They’re supposed to bring me a fresh one.” She indicated the stains on the front of the gown she wore. “Your shirt is much more comfortable.” Her eyes sparkled. “Bonus, I can smell your aftershave.”
“Smells don’t make you nauseous?”
“Not this. Makes me feel like you’re right next to me.”
Andrew smiled as he brushed his lips against hers. “Not planning to go anywhere, Cary.”
Caryn rested her hand on his arm. “Did you get something to eat or drink while you were out?”
Andrew nodded toward the small cooler on the other chair. “Courtesy of Terri and Kelly.”
“Have you eaten?” Andrew saw her eyes challenge him.
“I don’t want to eat in front of you.”
“Why not? I’m getting pumped full of nutrients. Don’t want you falling out on me.” She indicated the cooler. “What did they fix for you?”
Andrew shrugged, but opened the container. “A couple of sandwiches…look like turkey or chicken…cookies…couple of drinks. Want a cookie?”
“I wish. I’m ‘nothing by mouth’ except occasional ice chips.” She made a face. “Go ahead and eat. I can enjoy it vicariously.”
Caryn struggled to keep her eyes open as she watched Andrew quickly eat one of the sandwiches. The entire day felt like a dream. Not exactly what I planned this morning. She hated that Andrew found out about the baby this way. If only she hadn’t waited so long.
Andrew looked at her, the concern reflected by his eyes. “What’s wrong, Caryn?”
“Nothing. I was just thinking.”
“About…”
Caryn shrugged. “I should have told you sooner. I’m sorry. I could have given you your present earlier. Just you and me. Not in this…” She waved her hand.
Andrew set the cooler aside and sat on the side of the bed. He grasped her hand. “I love what you’d planned. No what-ifs, Caryn.” He lightly brushed the hair that fell against her cheek, his fingers lingering on her skin.
“When I found out I was pregnant, I wanted to tell you.”
“I understand why you didn’t.”
Caryn shook her head. “I knew you’d want to be with me, but…” Her voice trailed off.
“But what?”
“I was afraid you’d come home just because of the baby. I didn’t want you to feel sorry for me…or feel obligated.”
A slight smile curved the corners of his mouth. “Feeling sorry or obligated never would have occurred to me, Cary. When I told you in Toronto, I wanted to work things out with you, I didn’t know about the baby.”
Her eyes sought his for understanding. “I wanted to work everything out between us before I complicated things by telling you I was pregnant. I still don’t know if you believe me when I say I want you to make it back to the NHL, that I don’t want you to pursue other careers. But, I knew when I made the appointment last week it wasn’t fair to keep this from you. It might take us more time than this baby needs to sort things through—and I don’t want to deny you the chance to…be pregnant along with me.” She managed a small smile.
Andrew nodded, silent for a long before he spoke. “Cary, I know deep down you always believed in me, that you want me to make it back to playing hockey. If I hadn’t been so wrapped up in my own problems, I would have realized I’d pushed aside what’s most important to me—you and our marriage. When I saw you in Toronto, it hit me. The way I’d shut you out…I don’t blame you for not telling me.”
An image of Andrew kissing Kristen flashed through her mind, but Caryn shoved it aside resolutely. I can’t deal with this now. She shut her eyes tightly against the hot tears that threatened, and Andrew touched her chin lightly, coaxing her eyes towards his. He brushed aside the tears that escaped and then pressed his lips against her forehead.
“Cary, I love you. Can we just focus on that now? Let’s get you home, and then I’ll spend the next hundred years or so earning your forgiveness.”
A smile darted across her face. “Going for counseling should shorten that timeline immensely.”
“Then we’ll go every day,” Andrew replied softly as he leaned to kiss her.
Caryn ran one hand through his hair as she pulled him closer, relishing the sweetness of his kiss. “I love you so much, Drew. Please b
e patient with me. We need to be together, in every sense of the word. We can’t take the easy way and sweep everything under a rug. It’s so tempting…but the past year can’t be erased from our memories. I just hope you’re willing to walk beside me as we uncover every landmine—no matter how long it takes.” Her hand slipped to his cheek as he pulled back, the darkness of his blue eyes telling her everything she needed just then.
24
Caryn awoke the next morning, confused and disoriented as she looked at the unfamiliar ceiling, then the IV attached to her hand. She saw the bags of fluids hanging beside her, and then gradually remembered the previous day’s events, crowding her memory in disjointed snatches. She reached her right hand to massage her throbbing temple, and then her gaze fell on Andrew. A smile crossed her lips as he slept…head buried in his arms and leaning against the side of her bed.
Without thinking, she gently touched the brown hair on top of his head. It’s not a dream…Drew’s here. He moved a little, and Caryn quickly pulled her hand back. Don’t want to wake him. She saw his head rise and the smile that crossed his face when his blue eyes met hers removed all anxiety.
“Morning, sunshine,” he said as he grasped her hand and pressed his lips against her palm.
“I didn’t mean to disturb you.”
Andrew glanced at his wrist. “It’s late for me, Cary. Can’t believe I slept that long,” he told her with a wry smile. “Don't they check your vitals every few hours?”
“If they did, I never knew it.”
Andrew ran his hand through his hair, sitting back in the chair, his eyes never leaving her face. “Migraine any better?”
“Some. Hard putting things together…did I fall yesterday?”
Andrew carefully lowered the bed rail, then sat on the edge of the mattress and gently brushed the hair away from her face. “Yes, you fainted in my room and smacked your head against the coffee table. Hard enough to put you in here with a mild concussion.” He gently ran his hand over the swollen and bruised area near her hairline. “Pain?”