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I put a hand up to stop her. CAR-T was a newer treatment where a patient’s own immune cells were genetically altered and reintroduced. “I know. She needs a marrow transplant.”
“That’s her best chance for survival. I know I’m not supposed to tell you, but you’re the closest thing to a mother she has. Just don’t tell anyone.”
“I won’t.”
“So? How was your weekend?” Marcia’s voice resonated with a new excitement that had been lacking only seconds before.
“Amazing. I mean, I missed Rory, and I was worried about her, but being with Dylan was magical. My mother also surprised me by joining us in Jamaica. You know my dad is one of the coaches, so he was there, too.”
“Are you kidding? My brother and father are huge soccer fans! I’d be disowned if I didn’t know who Ace Forrester is.”
Despite my caustic mood, I couldn’t help the small smile that her words coaxed from me. “Well, it was nice to see them, too. They all offered to help me take care of Rory if I can convince Mr. Atkins to let me foster her, and to help find her a donor.”
“Well,” Marcia leaned forward and covered my hand with hers. “It sounds like your family is fabulous. No wonder you have such a big heart.”
Dylan
I was on my way to St. Jude’s Hospital in the back of a cab. I knew that I’d find Remi in Rory’s room.
I was halfway through my season with USMNT but, waiting in line for my flight to board at the Jamaica airport, I realized that I could get by without a few days of practice. If the coaches wanted to bench me for a few games, so be it. The next few days and weeks would be rough on Remi, and I needed to be there for her. At the very least, maybe we could hire a private detective to find someone on Rory’s family tree. Chase and two of the other coaches were almost ready to board so I texted him.
I’m heading to Memphis. Remi needs me right now. I’m sorry if you think I’m bailing on the team. I hope I’ll just need a few days, but I can’t be sure.
It was only a couple of minutes before he texted back.
I knew this was coming. Try to condition while you’re there and
keep up with your fundamentals if you can.
I’ll let the rest of the team and coaching staff know. Keep me in the loop, pls.
I turned around immediately, wheeling my carry-on beside me as I headed back out beyond the security check point to find a ticket counter. The line length was marginal, and Kingston International only had one terminal and was easy to navigate. I only had one bag, so I was on a flight within ninety minutes, with one connection through Atlanta.
It was late; half past eleven on a Sunday night and I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to get into the hospital without Remi. I seem to remember Remi telling me that visiting hours at the hospital were limited to short segments throughout the day to allow patients to get the rest they needed. She had a pass because of her volunteer status that allowed her to get in through the employee entrance. I didn’t know what the rules were or whether she could bring me in like she had during daytime hours.
I sighed and ran a hand through my hair. As much as I wanted to surprise her at the hospital, I knew that if I texted her, she might feel obligated to leave Rory to go back to her apartment with me. I decided to get a hotel very close and then call her in the morning.
***
Did you get back to Kansas City safely? I’m sorry, I should have texted last night, but I fell asleep in the chair next to Rory’s bed.
Remi’s text came in mid Monday morning when I was already in the lobby of the hospital. I’d just asked security if I would be allowed to go upstairs but was told it was outside of a visiting hour, and I had to be on the list of approved visitors for patients. Not only wasn’t I on any list, but we also didn’t know her last name, so it was doubtful that Rory was even listed as a patient.
It’s okay, babe. I understand. I didn’t go back to KC.
What? Why not?
Because I think my place is here, with you and Rory. I’m in the lobby but they won’t let me upstairs.
I held my phone in my hand waiting for her response for several minutes, but it didn’t come. Instead, she came hurrying across the lobby after the ding of an elevator echoed through the space.
She raced into my arms, and I gathered her close, lifting her up in a tight hug. There were several people and children scattered around the lobby all wearing face masks, including Remi and myself.
“I’m sorry if you’re taken off guard. It was a spur of the moment decision.”
She shook her head, her arms sliding from around my shoulders down my arms. Her fingers gripped my forearms. “Don’t be! I’m so glad you’re here. I can’t believe it!” Happiness laced her tone.
“Remi, this is where I belong.”
