Covering Home (34 page)

“Scrambled eggs. Want some? We can’t have Denver’s new sportscaster passing out in the stands.”

“Do you think the new pitching coach would rescue me?” She smiled at the mental image of Caleb coming out of the dugout and into the stands to rescue her. That would make for an interesting start to the season.

“Of course I would. I’d do anything for you, babe.” Caleb ignited the flame under the burner and smeared butter in the skillet with a knife.

Her heart warmed at his proclamation. He’d spoiled her in the off-season, ever the devoted husband. Her morning sickness derailed their plans to visit Italy, but Caleb never complained. Instead, he’d suggested a week in Santa Cruz and Monterey. Although she’d felt awful that the relentless nausea ruined their dream vacation, a retreat to the California coast was exactly what they needed. The slower pace, a luxurious bed and breakfast with a breathtaking view of the ocean—it was the perfect way to relax and savor their time together before another baseball season started.

“I know you want to take care of me, but I don’t think I can keep eggs down yet.” Britt grimaced as Caleb added milk. She reached for her smoothie again.

He looked up, brow furrowed. “Are you sure? How can you work all day and not eat anything?”

She left her glass on the counter and joined him, sliding her arms around his waist. “I’m not working all day. I get to watch most of your game before I head to the station. Anchoring the sports segment on the news is much different than sideline reporting.”

“I’m still concerned,” he said gently. “I want you to be careful. Don’t overdo it.”

Britt rested her cheek against his shoulder, relieved that they were home together only hours before he’d be at the field for Opening Day. She wouldn’t trade her two seasons with the Epic Sports Network for anything, especially since it allowed her to meet Caleb and share his story with the world. Her success also afforded her a new role—one with more flexibility and time with her husband. Best of all, it provided a front row seat to his much-anticipated season as the Rockies’ new pitching coach.

“Did you hear me?” He glanced over his shoulder. “I want you to be careful.”

“I will. I know you’re concerned, but compared to
Covering Home
, the evening news is a more manageable job. Now sticking around for the eleven o’clock news when I’m exhausted, that’s a different ballgame.” She stepped back so he could finish fixing breakfast, already missing the warmth of his body against hers. “Are you ready for today? How’s your starting pitcher looking?”

He plated the scrambled eggs and selected a fork from the drawer under the counter. “Isn’t this a conflict of interest? The local sports anchor interviewing the staff before the game?”

Britt laughed and followed him to the table, sneaking a quick look at the scars on his right arm. He’d followed the rehab protocol to a T after his surgery last year. She’d heard the team physician and the athletic training staff talk about his attention to detail and commitment to his therapy. But it wasn’t meant to be. He’d lacked the ability he once possessed and decided to make the complete transition from player to coach. “I know how much you love media attention. What I’m really asking is how you feel about coaching and not taking the mound yourself today? Off the record, of course.”

He put down his fork, then reached for her hand. “I’m a little … wistful. It’s a big change. I couldn’t do this without you by my side, cheering me on. I’m grateful for the opportunity to coach, but what I’m most grateful for is you.”

She leaned closer and pressed her lips to his, then pulled back, searching his face. “I’m grateful for you, too. I couldn’t ask for a better life than the one we share together. When it’s all said and done, I’ll be right here … covering home.”

THE END

About the Author

HEIDI MCCAHAN is a Pacific Northwest girl at heart. She spent her formative years in Alaska, where her unique upbringing, coupled with Alaska’s breathtaking scenery, fueled her active imagination and loosely inspired her debut novel,
Unraveled
.

Heidi graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Medicine from Whitworth University and a Master’s Degree in Athletic Training from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. After a brief career as a Certified Athletic Trainer, Heidi married her husband, Steve. They currently live in North Carolina with their three boys.

When Heidi isn’t stepping on Legos, chauffeuring the boys around suburbia or watching one of their many sporting events, she loves to read and write heartwarming romance.

Connect with Heidi on her website:
www.HeidiMcCahan.com