Page 63 of Draft Pick
It amazes me how intelligent she is. Humble about it, too.
I do notice a small difference since starting a more restricted therapy. Adding more movement at home wouldn’t hurt.
“Protecting your UCL is what’s most important, especially since you’re in the thick of the season, when you’ll be using your arm much more than in the offseason. Obviously, anything you can do to avoid Tommy John surgery is for the best. You’ve got this, Crew. And I’m not sure if I’ve mentioned it before, but I’m here if you need anything at all. Happy to help.”
“Thanks, Doc. I appreciate that.”
Jack chuckles beside me. “Any chance I can interest you in a job, Dr. Wilde?”
“Oh, she’s Dr. Wilde now?” I gape. “What’s up with you trying to get everyone to work for you?”
He smirks, and I know it’s with devious intent. “Not everyone. Only the people important to my people.”
Before I can respond, Juniper replies, “Tempting offer, but I’ll stick with my snotty-nosed kiddos. I draw a hard line at adult odors.”
Jack holds back an audible grimace. “Can’t say I blame you,” I agree.
Realizing it’s getting late and we still have one last stop before I take Juniper home, I glance at my watch before connecting with her eyes, finding them already set on me. “It’s getting late. You about ready to head out?”
She nods kindly. “Sure. Thanks so much for allowing me to visit, Jack. I know it wasn’t expected, but I enjoyed it, nonetheless. You have a beautiful home.”
Jack shakes his head solemnly. “It’s just a home. And you’re welcome any time, Juniper. Within reason,” he adds, quirking a brow at me.
I hold my hands up. “You get a whole week in between my visits, so I don’t want to hear a single complaint.”
“After seeing you nearly every day at Makers,” he adds, making me laugh. I pull him in for a hug. “You take care of yourself, Coach. I know I say it all the time, but if you ever need me, I’m here. You’re not alone in this.”
I expected no response, but his steady blinking in acknowledgment is enough for me. Now that I can confirm Jack is in a good headspace for today, I can finally take Juniper to my favorite spot.
Well, one of them, that is.
19
CREW
“So,how often does Mrs. Vanna help out?”
“Whenever Hilary or I need her. She’s a fiery older woman who never had kids. Loves Addie like her own,” I say, guiding Juniper through a few minor obstacles before reaching my surprise. “Here, watch your step. There’s a box right in front of you.”
“And how am I supposed to know that with a blindfold over my eyes, hotshot?”
Oh, right.
Reaching for her hand, I carefully stand behind her before asking “Is it okay if I lift you? It’ll be just for a second. I need to get you over this crowded space.”
“Mhm.”
With one arm at the back of her knees and the other lifting under her arms, I carry Juniper over the storage boxes. Someone is going to get a mouthful first thing tomorrow for leaving this shit in the middle of the walkway. They’re lucky it’s me who found it.
However, I’m grateful for the minor inconvenience now because Juniper’s head falls to my shoulder like it’s second nature, finding comfort in my arms even if for only a moment.She’s becoming more relaxed around me. We both are with each other.
Once we’re a few feet away, I place Juniper on her feet and help her stand. “Here you go. Almost there,” I whisper, and I’m not sure why. It’s just us here for the night.
Pushing through the heavy metal door, a rush of cold air hits us, Juniper’s loud shiver echoing from behind me. “Okay, now I really have no idea where we are,” she says. “Crew? Where are you?”
Her arm reaches for me, and fuck, it feels good to be the only one who can help her. “Right here, Doc. Hold my hand.”
Delicate fingers link with mine, my chest tightening in the best way possible. Bringing her to stand against one of the metal tables, I shift her around before bringing my palms to the sides of her arms. “You ready?” I whisper, leaning into the side of her face. Right here, I get the incredible pleasure of watching Juniper’s silky skin flush with goosebumps.
