“It’s going to be miserable having to sit here and watch everyone from the sidelines.”
Mel knelt down to help Gemma remove her skates. “You know, you don’t have to stay with DOI if you’re not skating. Why not visit Frankie? I’m sure she’d love to have you drop in on her. You were so happy after your last visit there.”
“Maybe I will.”
“Good. Now that that’s decided, let’s have you lie on your back. We’ll heat and massage the flexors and extensors.
As Gemma relaxed, letting the heat seep into her ailing hip, knots churned in her stomach. What if the injurywasmore serious than either she or Mel thought? What if the time off did nothing and she wasn’t able to skate any longer? What did that mean for her future?
I’ve started to wonder if the timing was right to say goodbye to the world of show skating. Is this the sign I’ve been waiting for? I never thought that I wouldn’t have a choice in the matter. I wanted to be the one who made the decision when the time was right, not have it made for me.
* * *
Later that day, Gemma texted Frankie and Charlie.
Gemma: So is that open invitation to come and stay with you guys still good?
Frankie: Of course!
Charlie: For a nominal fee.
Frankie:Charlie?.?.?. *face-palm emoji*
Charlie: I’m not asking much.
Gemma: What’s the price?
Charlie: Help with figuring out what to get Leslie for her birthday.
Gemma: Done.
Frankie: I thought we decided to just get her a gift card to Hobby Land.
Charlie:That’s the easy way out. We need a gag gift too.
Frankie: Count me out on this one.
Gemma: I’ll still help.
Charlie: You’re a real gem, Gem.
Gemma:*Grinning emoji*
Frankie:When’s your flight?
Gemma: I haven’t booked anything yet, but I’m probably going to try to get into Fresno sometime early on Saturday. Could I trouble you two for a ride too?
Charlie: We’re a full-service place. All transportation is included.
Gemma: *Wide smiling emoji*
Charlie:Mind if I ask why you’re coming back so soon?
Gemma: I missed your winning personality?
Charlie: Sure you did. What’s therealstory?
Gemma: Injured hip.
