“Because I sent those messages. I know it was under duress and I was doing it to protect you, but I still feel like shit about it.”
“Jo-Jo.” Taryn’s voice is soft as she looks at her bestie in the bed next to hers. “Andy left you no choice.”
Nash agrees. “I saw his texts to you. He threatened to kill Taryn if you didn’t do what he asked.”
“I know, but… I made your life hell.” Jodie hangs her head.
“You did. But you did it to protect me. I’m not mad at you, Jo-Jo. So please forgive yourself. I just can’t believe that you dated a psycho for years. If I think about it, I’m glad Andy didn’t hurt you.”
Jodie shudders. “Yeah, I know. And he said some horrible things about me. He never even cared about me. I know this will be messing with me in the future. I should probably find a therapist.”
“That’s a good idea. And if you ever need me to, I’ll go with you.”
“Really?” Jodie’s eyes well up with barely contained tears.
Taryn nods. “Ride or die, right?”
There’s a knock on the door. Liz Prescott, Tucker’s mom, comes into the room with a large brown bag in her hands. “Hey guys. You missed dinner while you were getting assessed. I took the liberty of going to Joe’s and got you something to eat.”
“Thanks, Mom.” Tucker beams at her.
“Thanks, ma’am. I mean, Liz,” Taryn smiles.
Liz gives the bag to her son and busies herself fluffing Taryn’s pillows. “Don’t mention it. I knew when we met that I’d see you again. My husband and I will be moving in the next couple of weeks. But once we’re settled, I hope you’ll consider coming to dinner with Tucker and Talia.”
“Of course. I’d be happy to.”
Tucker’s mom looks at all of us. “Now, eat dinner and let our patients rest.” She’s looking at me and Tucker. “Don’t make me regret allowing you to stay. Are we clear?”
“Crystal.” We say in unison.
CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE
MAKING THE TEAM
TARYN
One week later
When we got discharged from the hospital, we were informed that the final game was delayed by a week to give Jodie, Nash and I the chance to recover fully and be a part of it.
We all had to meet with the network press office, as there were concerns about the media frenzy that would follow Andy’s capture and confession of a murder that made national headlines.
None of us wanted to deal with the obsessive attention of the media. The network, however, offered us a perfect solution.
They provided stringent security within campgrounds in exchange for an exclusive interview with me, Nash, Jodie, Tucker, and Colsen that was broadcast on the night the final game of the pre-season tournament should have taken place.
That gets us off the hook with the press because wearen’t allowed to talk to anyone else about our ordeal. Of course, that doesn’t protect us from free speculation and comments not only from the media but also from the online community.
The best way to deal with it is to stay off social media for the time being.
Jodie and I have been given the all clear to return to rehearsal two days after we’re discharged.
Game night is upon us before we know it, and the Shooting Stars’ performance is spectacular, and everything goes smoothly.
I personally think that the thirty-four dancers who performed tonight are all deserving of being offered a spot on the team.
But we all know that the roster has only thirty-two spots, and the final team will be announced tonight after the game.
