MILLER
Not you.
ME
I don’t. I know I don’t. I’m just in a place. It’s a weird place. Carry on. Happy Thursday.
MILLER
You’re going to be fine. We’ve got this.
ME
Sorry, Mills. You’re right.
MILLER
I know I am.
“Morning, Princess.” Chase crawls onto the couch, distracting me. He was still sound asleep when I crawled out of bed and I didn’t want to disturb him.
“Morning, baby.” I run my fingers through his hair when he lays his head in my lap.
“How did you sleep?”
“Good. Glad I took a few days off. You were right.”
Grant all but demanded it the other day, but I finally relented and agreed to take the week. I wouldn’t have been able to focus at work anyway and I’ve got the time piled up.
“Can you say that again so I can record it?” He pats his pocket like he’s looking for his phone.
“You’ve been hanging out with Miller too much.”
“Have you heard from the doctor yet?”
“Not yet. It’s only nine. I doubt they’ve been open long.” It’s been three days since the biopsy and knowing they could call today has me on edge already.
“I’m sure it’ll be soon.”
“What time are you leaving today?” There were still three more games left in the regular season, luckily all at home.
“I still have some time. Hate to say it, but I’m glad the season is almost over. I’m exhausted. My body hurts and I’m ready for a break.”
“You’ve had a busy two-and-a-half months outside of baseball too.”
“Yeah, whoever made my schedule was trying to kill me.” He pokes my side.
“You did that to yourself. No one told you to steal a horse and get community service. Plus your trips to the community center.” It’s admirable the way he’s stepped up to the challenge of managing it all. He hasn’t complained one bit, and now that the MLB officially declared his three-day suspension in July sufficient, his plea deal has been satisfied.
“Wouldn’t change it.”
“You wouldn’t?” I ask, surprised.
“Nope. It gave me you. I can’t regret that.” He leans up and gives me a kiss.
“Are you always this charming?”
“Only with you.” I lose myself in his touch, falling deeper in love with this man. He’s right. It’s hard to regret any of it now that we’re here together.
