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Holden
It’ll be a week tomorrow since Kayleigh fell sick, and to say I’m worried would be a massive understatement. I know the doctor said it was a simple stomach bug, but I’ve never known a bug to last this long. I’ve barely been able to focus at practice, wondering what could be wrong with her.
“Rivers.” My name is called as I’m changing in the locker room.
I sling my bag over my shoulder and walk over to the source. “Yeah, coach?”
“What’s been up with you? You’ve had something on your mind every day this week.”
“I know. I’m sorry.” I sigh. “My fiancé is sick. I’m just concerned.”
“Has she been to the doctor?”
I nod. “Something about it, though – I don’t know. It feels off. Doc said it was viral, but it’s been a week now and there is no sign of it letting up.”
He takes out his phone and opens the calendar app. “Alright. How about you take the weekend off? Go home, take care of your girl, and come back Monday with a clear head.”
Relief washes over me. “Thank you, sir.”
“Thank me by being the record breaking all-star that you are when you get back.”
As soon as he walks away, I take out my phone and book a plane ticket to Maine. Seeing the next one is only an hour from now, I don’t have time to go back to my room. Luckily, I don’t really need to. I have enough stuff at home to get me through the weekend.
Jumping into the first taxi I can find, I direct him to the airport and take out my phone. I could always take an Uber when I get there. Kayleigh is in no condition to come pick me up. Just then, an idea comes to mind and I open my messages.
Me: Hey man. I’m coming home.
Don’t tell K. I want to surprise her.
Think you could get me from the airport?
It doesn’t take long for his response to come through. I assume he’s bored at work.
Dawson: Sure, no problem. What time do you land?
Me: 9:30
Dawson: Sounds good. See you then.
Right after I thank him, the cab pulls up to the airport. I pay the driver and climb out, entering the building and checking in for my flight. Despite it being so soon, I still manage to make it to the terminal with thirty minutes to spare. I decide to check on my fiancé.
Me: Hey babe. How are you feeling?
While I wait for her to answer, I occupy myself with a game on my phone. Ten minutes later, my phone dings.
Kayleigh: I’d lie and say better, but you
wouldn’t believe me. How was practice?
I think of a quick excuse for why I won’t be able to answer for approximately two hours.
Me: Going late. Just got a break and figured
I would check on you. I love you.
Kayleigh: I love you, too. Have a good practice, bigshot.
The flight attendant announces boarding so I shut my phone off and slip it into my bag – thinking of how I can’t wait to get my girl back in my arms.
