Sorry that my updates are taking so long. After this weekend I should be a little quicker.

Everyones reviews have been so great. They push me to continue the story (wink, wink!)

I woke up this morning and discovered....I still own very little.

Chapter 18: Dad

"So what brings you to my door so early this morning?"

"Does a girl need a reason to talk to her dad?"

"At 7 am?....Yes."

We both smile because we know how much I love sleeping in.

"Come in...What's up?"

"You know how you told me to stick close to Jack this week?"

"Yes....is there a problem?"

"No. I have been and well...."

"I am sorry I have not noticed....I know I have been a bit pre-occupied lately....but I do appreciate all the work you do."

"Thanks dad. I know you're busy. It doesn't bother me. The reason I brought it up is that Jack has been a little depressed lately....and you said you wanted to know if and when that happened....so...."

"Did he tell you he was depressed?"

Yeah right after we made love....I think I will skip that part.

"Ah-ha. He told me last night....but only because I told him that I have noticed a change in him lately."

"I have noticed a change in him too....but it was before the injury."

Oh god! He is the third person to tell me that. I just hope that he, unlike the others, doesn't know it is because of me.

"Really?"

"He seemed to carry less animosity....he seemed really happy. I never knew what caused it....but I am not complaining....it only helped his play. Anyway....what did he say to you?"

"He just feels useless. He wants to contribute....he wants to play."

"Well, I am meeting with Doc after practice today to see if he can play in tomorrow's game. I could really use him against the Soviets. Can you do me another favor?"

"Sure dad, what is it?"

"If you talk to OC....don't say anything about the game. I don't want him to get his hopes up."

"Sure thing dad. I wouldn't say anything anyway....there is not much to tell. Jack knows that you meet with Doc after every practice. Obviously some of the discussions are about him."

"Thanks....hey we have a few hours before practice....what do you say to breakfast with the old man?"

"I would love too....but I think I am going to try and fall back asleep. The next few days are going to be gruesome. Maybe some other time?"

"Sure thing. Go back to bed. I will see you at practice."

"Thanks dad. I love you."

"Love you too....and Tara....thanks for all you are doing with the boys...especially OC. I know there are better things you could be doing."

"Dad. I love this stuff....plus Jack and the guys are like family."

My dad smiles at me as I head out the door. For a split second he looks a little confused, but his face quickly returns to a smile. I pretend to head into my room and once I know the coast is clear I go back to Jack's and reassume my favorite position.