Page 176 of Offside Rules

"I think we can make that happen. I know he loves you, and I love you too. We’ll figure it out for you," I tell her, because that’s true. I’d do anything for her.

Her hand moves to my cheek, her fingers careful near the bruise.

"I’m still mad at him," she admits. "But I believe he’s sorry."

"We’re going to figure this out, I promise. One big happy family. You’ll see."

"Really. You think we can?"

I grin down at her, her eyes wide and hopeful. "It’s not going to be an overnight thing, but if we can all move past the last six years and build something new, then I believe so. Do you?"

She studies my face for a moment, then leans up and kisses me.

I slide my hand around the back of her neck and keep her there. She’s careful with me, and I appreciate it, but I’ve spent too much time wanting this to settle for a quick kiss in my dad’s parking lot.

When she starts to pull away, I follow.

She smiles against my mouth.

"There he is."

"I’ve had a rough week."

"I noticed."

"Could probably use another one."

She gives me one, her hand resting against my chest. When she pulls back this time, I let her, although I keep my arm around her waist.

"How long can you stay?"

"Until Monday. Ellie has my orders covered."

"I’d offer to show you around, but my current schedule is mostly appointments and trying to get comfortable."

"I didn’t come for a tour."

"No?"

"I came because I love you, and you weren’t answering your fucking phone."

I laugh, then kiss her forehead.

"I love you too."

She closes her eyes for a second and leans into me.

There’s nothing I want more than to get on her flight Monday. Go back to our bed, make her coffee, listen to her tell me everything she needs to do before the shop opens.

But I have another follow-up here. Physical therapy. A surgeon who was very clear this morning about what he expects from me.

"I can’t come back with you yet," I tell her.

"I know. Your dad told me."

"I’ll talk to the surgeon about when I can finish rehab in Seattle."

"Okay."