by Mary Smith
“Fit?” He mumbles.
“Teo, you know what I mean. You have a daughter whose life I’d like to be a part of.” She folds her hands. “Now, let’s talk.”
Teo glances at me and then his mother. “Fine. Because of you I almost lost Nova. I’m smart enough to understand why she lied and did what she did. But because of you and your lies I tossed her aside. I’ve never trusted women because you showed me how despicable one can be. Then you went off and showed Ellen the same conniving ways. You have always lied and been a horrible person. You only look out for yourself. You never cared about me. If you remember your career always came first. How many games did you come to? Did you make it to any of my school functions? Now you fly all the way over here to take our daughter away from us and suddenly you want to be part of my life. So I think my fit is justified.”
Dr. Elgin stares at Teo for a long time before she speaks. “Teo, I believe you’re being over sensitive.”
“Are you kidding me?” Teo raises his voice. “You treated me like shit and were the worst parent ever.”
“Did you starve as a child? Did you wear ratty clothes? Did you use old hockey equipment?”
“Right because that’s all that matters.” He throws his hands up and begins to pace. “I wanted a mother who loved me and wasn’t a liar. A mother who didn’t tell everyone he was the liar when he perfectly saw you fucking someone who wasn’t Father.”
Dr. Elgin hangs her head and takes a moment. “Teo, you are right about some things. I cheated on your father and lied. He’s aware of the affair, but it was a long time ago.” She stands and goes over to him. “I’m not a perfect mother. I raised you and Ellen to be successful, independent, career-minded individuals. Was I there enough? No. Should I’ve been? Maybe. However, look at you now. This is because of me. It’s why I wanted to take Klara back home. To be raised right.”
“Do you hear yourself?” Teo barks. “Raise her right? Klara is our daughter and we’ll raise her the way we want.”
Dr. Elgin smooths out her purple jacket. “Fine. Raise her the way you think is best but mark my words you’re going to raise a dumb American.”
Before I could think or even blink, I jump to my feet and yell, “Get out of my house.”
She faces me. “Excuse me?”
“You don’t have any right to come into my home and insult us. Teo’s right. You give women a bad name. Teo is an amazing man and an even better father. He shows Klara love and respect and it’s obvious it’s something he didn’t learn from you. Now, get out.”
Dr. Elgin looks appalled and steps back from me. “Fine. You both do whatever you want.” She storms out of the house.
I stand rooted in place as Teo comes over and puts his arm around me. I know he’s wanting to say ‘told you so’ but is refraining from it. Actually, I fully understand why Teo hated females. It’s all clear now.
“I’m going to get Klara a bottle.” I kiss his cheek and head into the kitchen.
I think Teo needs to have a few moments to himself. In fact, I need it too. I don’t remember my mother at all. Uncle Tad had given me the pictures he had and told me stories. I’m thankful she wasn’t like Clara. I also don’t want Teo to think all women are the same. Look how he treated me. Of course I lied to him. Suddenly an idea hits me. I quickly text my family and urge them all to come over as soon as possible for dinner. I give them a brief overview of Teo’s craziness and he needs to see how a real family is. I order a massive stock of Chinese food and put a rush on the delivery.
Within twenty minutes my family begins to arrive. At first, Teo just slumps around and isn’t sociable. Soon Hamilton, Uncle Oliver, and Uncle Tad begin to talk about hockey, bringing Teo into the conversation. Macy, Janan, and I play with Klara and fix up the buffet of food for everyone. There’s laughter, bad jokes, conversation, and family time. Macy talks about work. Janan comments about school and tutoring at the shelter. Uncle Oliver’s input is about his next business adventure. We all pick up and pass containers of food around, sharing and spending time together. Klara plays in her high chair beside me.
“Here.” Teo puts another egg roll on my plate. “Eat this.”
I frown. “Why are you force feeding me lately?” I take a bite of the egg roll.
He doesn’t say anything, simply shrugs.
The conversation continues around the table until we finish almost all the food. Teo and Hamilton clean up everything as my uncles and Macy leave.
“You think Teo is better now?” Janan asks as she rocks Klara.
“I hope so.”
“You two are still okay?” The concern is clear in her tone.
“I believe we’re okay. I have a better understanding of his family dynamics. Clara is a real piece of work. Plus, I didn’t even know about his sister and also no one has really said anything about his father. Well, besides he’s a doctor.” I sigh. “All I know is I want to be there for Teo and for us to be together.”
“Aw, you’re cute when you’re in love.” Janan makes kissy faces at me.
“You’re weird.” I push on her shoulder playfully.
“Sweetheart.” Hamilton strolls into the room with Teo behind him. “Are you ready to go?”
“Sure.” She hands me Klara and kisses her cheek before mine. I watch as she goes over to Teo and hugs him. I hear her softly whispering in his ear but I can’t make out the words.
Teo walks them both to the door. When he’s done locking up he sits down next to me. “Thank you, N.”
“For what?”
“For bringing your family over here and taking my mind off my torturous family.” He kisses me softly.
“Teo, you’re my family. Klara is your daughter. You are connected to us forever.”
“I love you, N. I’m sorry my mother was a bitch.”
I lay my head on his shoulder and Klara reaches for him. Teo smiles taking our daughter into his arms.
“See this is what family is.” I grin looking up at him.
He beams back at me.
TEO IS SITTING next to me on the plane. He’s reading a book on his iPad about some architecture person. I flip through the contract in front of me. I can’t understand why Uncle Oliver wants me to read these. Well, I do understand sport contracts but this is one of his business contracts. I assume it’s because I’m his assistant and this is just part of my job.
“I hate leaving Klara.” Teo puts down his tablet.
“Me too, especially for a full week.” I groan. “Hopefully, it goes by quickly.”
“Agreed,” he says sadly. “But,” he slyly smirks, “this means we’ll be alone with no cute, tiny cock-blocker.” He waggles his eyebrows.
I giggle. “Really? You’re thinking about sex right now?”
“With you.” He smiles bigger. He grips my thigh and slides his hand slowly upward.
“Stop.” I hiss in a low tone. “We’re on a plane with absolutely no privacy,” I whisper.
“Just wait until we land.” He kisses my cheek.
Uncle Oliver calls me over to him and I change seats. For the next three hours, he and I discuss business. I’m really learning a lot. I enjoyed my business classes in college but this hands-on approach is much quicker.
As the seatbelt light comes on and we’re told to get back into our seats, Uncle Oliver leans over to me. “Are you happy?”
“Yes.”
“Is he treating you well?”
“Better.” I feel the heat rushing to my cheeks.
“I’m proud of you.”
I give him a hug. “Thank you for being the best godfather ever.”
“You’re an amazing goddaughter.”
Chapter Fourteen
Teo
AS ANOTHER PUCK speeds past me, I’m ready to tear someone’s eyes out. I’m beyond pissed at this point. My streak of on-the-road wins and shutouts ends tonight.
Alden skates over to me. “It’s one game. Don’t get discouraged.”
I give him one stiff nod. I
know he’s trying to be a friend, but I don’t want to listen right now. I’m trying to focus, but in the back of my mind, Mother keeps popping up.
She is an evil woman.
I take a couple cleansing breaths and get my head back where it belongs as the puck is dropped. No more goals are getting past me. I can’t let it happen. I know the Bears are counting on me since Nathan is still out. Plus, I sure as hell don’t want Kit Waters taking over. He’s a kid but a good player. I don’t want to lose my backup position. Actually, I don’t want to leave Nova and Klara. They’re my family.
They’re my family.
I get my head back where it needs to be and nothing else gets past me. I’m like a brick wall. Minute by minute ticks by and I stop each shot. Even though they keep coming at me, I’m resilient.
AS I STEP off the team bus, a few of the guys want to grab a drink since we’re not flying out until the morning. I try to find Nova first but don’t see her.
Me: Where are you at, beautiful?
N: In the hotel restaurant with Uncle Oliver.
I turn right and head over there, but I see it’s a business meeting slash dinner.
N: I’ll text when I’m done.
Me: I’m going to the bar with the guys. I won’t drink anything but soda.
I know how much she hates the smell of alcohol, especially vodka.
N: You’re fine to drink. I’m surrounded by the smells of scotch and whiskey right now.
Me: Love you.
N: Love you.
Alden slaps my back. “Let’s get me laid.”
I chuckle following them up to the bar. “You don’t need help in that particular department. Or are you losing your touch?”
Alden halts and looks accosted. “Excuse me? I’m a hot piece of ass and any woman should be bowing down on her knees to let me stick my cock in her.”
I roll my eyes and grab Kit, Dag, Bas, and Cabel as we pass them. I’m not going to be the third wheel when Alden finds whatever female stops long enough to have sex with him.
We find a table big enough for all of us and order drinks. I stick with a coke. I’d like to have sex with Nova tonight, and I know the smell of alcohol will turn her off.
The guys and I talk about our game and the game’s coming up. We’re still number one in the league and division. I want to be the goalie who keeps us there until Nathan gets back. I’m certain he won’t let us slip down the ranks.
“Hi.”
I turn to see four stunning blondes looking at us.
“Well hello, ladies.” Alden’s smooth French Canadian accent always makes the females swoon.
“Aren’t you guys on the Bears?” The first blonde bites down on her lip.
I’m certain these ladies already know who we are. It’s common for hockey groupies to follow us around. Some call them puck bunnies, hockey whores, and numerous other names. I’ve never slept with any, but it’s Alden’s favorite flavor.
“I’m heading up.” I excuse myself, but first I lean over to Kit. “Be careful. Some of these females can be super kinky and will try to trap you. Don’t use their condoms, use your own and don’t be late in the morning.” I pat his shoulder as I head toward the exit and to the elevators.
“Hey, handsome.”
I stop and my smile grows as I turn to see Nova’s jaw-dropping body and good looks. “Hello, beautiful.”
She checks her watch and takes a step closer to me. “We have one hour and fifteen minutes before curfew. Want to have sex?”
I laugh. I love how bold she’s gotten with me. “Yes I do.” I grab her hand and lead her all the way to her room. Kissing and touching her the entire time.
NOVA LAYS HER head on my chest as I play with her hair. “I miss your long hair.”
“Me too.”
“Why did you cut it?”
“Because I wanted something different.” She turns her face up to see me.
“Did you eat today?”
She’s frowning. “Why are you worried about my food intake? In fact,” she pulls the sheet tighter and sits up, “you’ve been shoving food in my face for the past couple weeks. What’s up?”
I sigh and sit up against the headboard. “I can’t tell you without you getting very angry at me.”
Her expression of confusion deepens. “Explain. I promise I won’t get upset.”
I groan. All females promise that but they’re lying. I get out of bed and slip into my boxer briefs. I walk to the other side of the room.
“Teo, please tell me. You’re worrying me.” Her voice cracks.
“You are too thin.” I blurt out. “When we met, you were a little...um…” Don’t say fat, Teo. “Thicker. Now, I can see your ribs and you need to eat because you’re breastfeeding and I read that it takes up a lot of nutrients from your body.” I shift from one foot to another.
“You’re feeding me to get fatter?”
“No.” I point at her. “Healthier. Seeing your ribs and bones isn’t healthy.”
“Teo, I am healthy, but you might be right. Even I noticed I’m underweight. Plus, I do need to keep up my strength. I’ll eat more. But it’ll be healthier food, not chips and junk.”
I smile. “I want you to be healthy.”
Before she can say anything my cell phone rings. When I pick it up I’m shocked to see it’s Father.
“Father,” I answer.
“We need to talk. It needs to be face-to-face. Where are you?”
“Currently, Portland. Tomorrow I’ll be in Vegas. Why?”
“I just told you we need to talk. I’m in Boston now. I’ll be in Vegas in the morning.” He ends the call.
“Teo, are you okay?” Nova rushes over to me.
“I’m not sure.” I stare at the cell phone screen. Something didn’t feel right.
FATHER: I’M IN the lobby.
I rub my temples and step off the elevator. My father is different than Mother and Ellen. He’s stern and the only thing he truly taught me was to be a hard worker. However, he’s a royal asshole.
He’s easy to spot in the lobby. He’s tall with striking blond hair. His eyes are blue but not as pale as mine and Mothers. He commands the room. Always has.
“Father.”
He turns. It’s been over five years since I’ve seen him. He has aged around his eyes but still looks the same.
“We’re having lunch.” He brushes past me and goes to the door.
I have no choice but to follow and get in the cab with him. He orders the cab to take us to the most expensive restaurant in Vegas.
Of course.
We remain in utter silence during the cab ride, as we walk into the restaurant and when we’re seated. We both ordered water, medium steaks, asparagus, and broccoli. I fold my hands on the table and wait for whatever he wants to talk about.
“Do you have a picture of my granddaughter?”
I glance at him for a second to ensure he isn’t joking. Who am I kidding? This man never jokes. I reach for my cell phone and open up the photos, handing it to him and I watch as he swipes the screen several times.
“Is this the mother?”
I only have pictures of Nova and Klara on my phone. “It is.”
“They’re both lovely.” He hands the phone back to me, and we go back to silence.
Once our food arrives I can’t take it anymore. “Father, what do you want?”
“To make you forgive your mother?”
I scoff. “Truly?”
He nods.
“Then I’m sorry to say it’s a wasted trip.”
“No, because you will do it.”
“I’m not a child.” I remind him. “I told all of you long ago I don’t have a family. I was nice enough to let Mother meet Klara and Nova. Do you know what she did? She went to Nova’s job, bullied her into going to lunch, and then demanded to take Klara from us. Not to mention she insulted Nova for being an American. After all that, you think I’m going to forgive her?”
“She cried.”
I chuckled. “She must have had something in her eye.”
“She’s dying.” He blurts out.
I freeze. “What?”
He shifts uncomfortably. “Your mother’s intentions were good, but she went about it incorrectly. About three months ago she found out she has a brain tumor. They gave her a year. It’s why we had such a large anniversary party. She was heartbroken when you didn’t come.”
It all makes sense now. “That’s why she called me.”
“Yes. When you told her about your daughter she made arrangements to come, against all her doctor’s orders.”
I push the food away. It’s no longer appetizing.
“You know Clara is overbearing. She just wanted Little Klara to know the Swedish traditions, our education, our love. Teo, you left thinking we all hate you. I could never understand why, but I’m here now begging my son to forgive his mother. I want her to die in peace.”
My heart twists and hurts. I rub my forehead.
“Tell me what I need to do to make this happen.”
I stare at my father for a long time. I can see the pain in his face.
“Teo, I know some things about where your anger comes from? I love Clara with all my heart. She and I just aren’t as expressive to each other as we should be.”
“She cheated on you.” I blurt out. “I saw her and she lied saying I had an overactive imagination.”
“I cheated on her as well.”
My eyes widen.
“We had a...I don’t know how to say it...an open marriage.”
My stomach drops.
“But I’m not getting into that with you. Our sexual activities and life are private and between us. Yes, she said you lied, but she hoped it would be something you’d forget. But apparently, it’s the foundation of your hatred for us. Then put your blame on me. I have a strong back and can handle the burden. However, I will make sure Clara dies with her family by her side. Her loving family.”
I jump up from my seat and run as fast as my legs can take me back to the hotel and to Nova. I need Nova. She’ll make this pain go away. Or help me understand what’s happening?
