“The doctor needs to clear me for training.Gavin told me the headaches would subside in time and that I shouldn’t try to play too early.I’ve had head knocks before, and Gavin is right.Recovery takes time.”
Worry seeped through Henry.She spoke casually, but rugby players made the news a lot these days.The lasting effect of head injuries—it wasn’t great.
“Do you wear a helmet?”
“Some players wear headgear, but that’s to prevent cauliflower ears.”
“Cauliflower ears?”
“Yeah, the ears become misshapen.It’s common in wrestlers.At least I can grow my hair long and cover any problems.”
Her cheerful unconcern had him shaking his head.
“This is The Octagon,” he said, indicating a left turn.“Its name comes from its distinctive shape.”He drove slowly so Maia could see everything.
“Oh, that’s the Robbie Burns statue.”
“It is.”Henry drove around again, enjoying Maia’s wide-eyed interest.“We’ll park at the railway station.There’s time for a quick look and a coffee before we head back for your appointment.”
An hour later, Henry paced the dingy waiting room.The young receptionist kept sneaking glances and averting her gaze.He should have taken a seat, but concern unsettled him.What the hell was taking so long?He paced another circuit and was preparing for a third when movement from behind had him whirling.Relief flooded him.
It took him seconds longer to realize Maia’s dejection.A scowl dug into her pale features.
“What’s wrong?”
“I need a minimum of two weeks off, and if my headaches have disappeared, they’ll manage my return to the team.I’ll mostly warm the bench.”
Henry tugged her to a halt.“You’re alive.Things could’ve turned out worse.”
Tears filled her eyes, and Henry yanked her closer, wrapping his arms around her trembling body.He breathed in her scent, and his wolf rumbled his satisfaction.This was their lady, theirs to protect, and Henry was determined to do everything possible to keep her safe.
Henry pulled back and used his fingers to wipe away her tears.
“Excuse me, Miss Jacobs.The doctor wants me to rebook you in two weeks.”
Maia stiffened, her shoulders slouching, and Henry sensed her frustration.He fished his keys out of his pocket and handed them to her.“Wait in my vehicle.I’ll get your appointment.”
“But you don’t know when I’m free.”
“Maia, don’t worry.We’ll sort it together.”He gave her a gentle nudge.“Go.I won’t be long.”
By the time Henry reached his vehicle, Maia was sound asleep.The vehicle remained unlocked, which wasn’t great security, but she looked peaceful.She’d be safe now because he wouldn’t countenance anything else.
Chapter 10
Themandatorytwo-weekstand-downupset Maia.She tried writing but couldn’t focus, her thoughts like a scattered flock of pigeons.So, instead of working, she unpacked her boxes and set about making her new bed, positioning her couch to her satisfaction, and organizing her office.
That was the first day of the enforced two-week break before Henry arrived.
“Henry?”She stared at the man darkening her doorway, her gaze fixing on his bag.“Why are you here?”
“You can’t stay by yourself.You turned down London’s invitation, so I’m here.”
“I’m not a child.”
“Not accepting help is a juvenile act.Besides, Gavin gave you the same instructions as the doctor.If you want a full recovery, play by the rules despite your frustration.”
“I know.”Maia glared at Henry.She didn’t want this man in her private sanctuary.“Where will you sleep?”
