Therapy is Good for the Soul

Bailey leaned into Tyler's side as he spoke to their family and friends after the wedding rehearsal. "Bailey and I just want to thank all of you for the love, encouragement, and support you have given us over this past year. Without you, I'm not sure we would be here, getting ready to start this wonderful new journey together. To show our appreciation, we have a real treat for you to enjoy. Instead of a regular rehearsal dinner, all of you are invited to a special sunset harbor cruise on the Liberty Clipper. It’s a 125-foot tall ship named after the ship John Hancock used for smuggling tea into Boston, before the American Revolution. One of Boston's finest restaurants has prepared an incredible feast for us to enjoy too. Make sure you get a copy of the directions from Emily or Christina, in the back before you leave."

"The ship sets sail at 6:15 so please don't dilly dally. I promise this isn't somethin y'all want to miss; the views are goin be stunnin and the food is to die for!"

Tyler gently tugged on Bailey's waist after she finished speaking to turn her towards him for a hug. She gladly leaned into his embrace and wrapped her other arm around him. They remained in their quiet closeness for a few minutes, before Bailey's mom interrupted them.

"Bailey sweetheart, I'm sorry to interrupt y'all, but I need to let you know your Daddy and I decided we're going to pass on dinner and just head back to the hotel."

"Oh no, Momma is everything ok?"

"Everything's fine, it's just the travel and this busy day has taken a lot out of us, especially your Daddy. We just want to make sure we are 100% for your special day tomorrow. Do you understand?"

"Yes mam. I understand, but what are y'all goin to do about dinner? Y'all need to eat!"

Tyler tightened his grasp around Bailey's waist, sensing her worry. "Bay, why don't we drive your parents back to the hotel. They can order anything they want from room service on us."

"Are you sure there's enough time before the harbor cruise? We don't want to impose; we can just take a cab."

"Nonsense! There's plenty of time for us to drop you off and get to the dock on time. Plus I know how much Baileyy appreciates spending time with you." Bailey smiled at Tyler's words and leaned into his side more.

"Well if you’re sure, we'd love a ride.”

“I insist, now lets get going so you can get some rest.”

Bailey walked beside her dad and helped him get into the front seat of Tyler's truck before folding his walker and putting it in the back. She sat in the back on the passenger’s side, while her mom sat behind Tyler. Tyler spoke to Bailey's dad about football, while periodically eavesdropping on Bailey's conversation with her mother about the wedding. He couldn't help but laugh when the discussion turned to them trying to guess where Tyler was taking Bailey on their honeymoon.

"What's so funny?" Mr. Thomas inquired.

"Nothing, I just realized the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Bailey must get her curiosity from her mom."

"Oh, yes, my girls say they hate surprises, but in reality they love them! They just hate not bein in the know all the time. Be careful because they can be quite cunnin when they want information.”

"Trust me sir, I've seen your daughter at her best, but she won't get this out of me."

"You may have Bailey figured out, but you better be on your toes if her mother's on the mission now. Gettin secrets out of people has become an art for her, so be careful. You won't even realize she's doin it until it's too late."

"Thanks for the info; I'll be on high guard. I definitely don't want to spill the beans accidentally!"

“Tyler, I’m so glad you met my daughter. You are so good for Bailey. Thank you for takin care of her!”

“It’s my pleasure sir and thank you for trusting me with her heart. I love Bailey more than anything in this world. Like I told you in Georgia, I will always protect her and take care of all her needs. I can assure you, that’s a promise I will never break!”

“That’s good to hear, son because I don’t have much time left here on Earth. It helps knowin my baby and now that new grandbaby of mine will be in good hands.”

Tyler’s eyes started to well up as the reality of Mr. Thomas’ words hit him. He knows how devastated Bailey will be when her dad passes away and he needs to be her rock. “I won’t let you down and I really hope there will be plenty of time for you to get to know your new grandchild.”

“Oh I will; it just may not be the way both of us would like. But rest assured, in the very least, your family is going to have one heck of a guardian angel!

“I appreciate that.”

“Oh and Tyler, just to be clear if you break your promise and break my baby girl’s heart, I’ll also be one Hell of an anoyin ghost that will haunt you until the day you die! Understand?”

“Yes sir!”

“Good, now that that’s settled, lets get back to somethin more lighthearted. Are you and Bailey plannin on buyin a house?”

“Not yet. My condo has plenty of room for the baby and us. Plus Bailey’s not too keen on having to get a car and driving into the city. If we move out of the city, she won’t have a choice.”

“She’s always been a nervous driver so I’m not surprised she doesn’t want to drive in such a busy city. Since you have to travel so much, it will be comfortin to her to be close to her friends in case she needs anything.”

“That makes me feel better too. I’m going to hate roadies even more now that she’s pregnant. I think I might see if Em or Christina can stay with Bailey during away games next season.”

“That’s a wonderful idea and I’ll think she’ll appreciate it too.”

When they reached the hotel, Tyler pulled up to the curb and put his truck in park. Tyler opened the door for Mrs. Thomas and then Bailey’s door. Bailey grabbed her dad’s walker and set it up for him. Bailey’s parents told Tyler and Bailey to take a ton of pictures on the cruise and not to worry about them. Mr. Thomas assured his daughter nothing would keep him away from walking her down the aisle tomorrow before giving her a long hug and heading inside.

Bailey and Tyler watched her parents go inside the hotel. Once out of their view, sensing Bailey’s sadness, Tyler immediately pulled her into his body for a comforting embrace. “Bay, they just want to get some rest, so they can help us celebrate tomorrow.” He pulled her in closer to his chest and kissed the top of her head.

“It’s just hard knowin these are some of the last moments I’m probably goin to get with Daddy.”

“I know, but your dad is a fighter and loves to live life to the fullest. He doesn’t want whatever time he has left with us on Earth to be spent depressed and hovering over him. He’s told all of us he wants us to treat him normally and to enjoy the time we have. Our wedding is the perfect chance for our families to celebrate life.”

Bailey pulled back slightly from Tyler and stretched on her tippy toes to press her lips to his. “Thank you. I don’t know how you do it, but you always seem to know exactly what to say.”

Tyler took his thumb to gently wipe away a few tears that had fallen down Bailey’s cheeks. “That’s because you and your family inspire me. Now what do you say, we go meet the rest of our families and friends to start our celebration?”

“That sounds wonderful. I love you Tyler.”

“I love you too Bay.” The two shared a sweet kiss before getting back in Tyler’s truck and heading towards the pier

Bailey decided to change out of her heels and into her white converse that were fortunately in the back of Tyler’s truck. She also put on her white cardigan sweater knowing she’d get chilly on the boat. She then hooked her left arm through Tyler’s right and they walked towards the Liberty Clipper.
The couple greeted the rest of their guests as they arrived. Tyler, Brad, and Andrew helped lift Alexis and her powerchair onto the ship. Bailey and Tyler wanted her to have freedom to move about the top of the boat without having to rely on someone else to push her around. Bailey couldn’t help but smile as her niece; Sarah Kate became Alexis’s shadow. She was worried Sarah Kate would want to be attached to Tyler’s hip all night and not allow Tyler to socialize with their friends and family.

Everyone enjoyed helping hoist the sails as they sailed towards Fort Independence and the spectacular Boston Harbor Islands. After the sails were raised, Tyler and Bailey mingled with their guests while they enjoyed the incredible views and gourmet dinner. The food was amazing and thankfully, Bailey was able to try a few things without it upsetting her stomach. She didn’t eat much, not wanting to chance getting sick on the boat and stuck in the bathroom for the entire sail.

After Bailey felt she had at least briefly chatted with all the guests and while Tyler was engaged in a conversation with several of his teammates, she headed towards the bow of the ship to take a few moments to just take in the views and relax. She stood at a great vantage point to watch the sun go down behind the city and bathe it in the incredible colors as the lights of Boston’s skyline began to sparkle in the twilight. Just as she slightly shivered from the gentle breeze guiding them through the harbor, she felt a pair of familiar hands place a Bruins full zip up hoodie around her shoulders and wrapped his arms around her waist.

Bailey smiled and immediately snuggled into Tyler's chest after pushing her arms through the sleeves of the sweatshirt. "Thank you." She said as she placed her hands on top of his.

"Penny for your thoughts." Tyler bent down and whispered in Bailey's ear.

"These past few weeks have been a whirlwind between findin out I'm pregnant, you winnin the Cup, the trip to Vegas where you, Patrice, and Tuukka basically swept the awards."

"I still can't believe I won the Ted Lindsay & NHL Foundation Award. I knew about the Maurice Richard Trophy, but those others are so special. Players picked me over Bergy as the most outstanding player, that’s just crazy!"

"Patrice didn’t do too shabby either, with the three awards he won. But, you earned all the accolades you received with all the hard work you put in this season. I’m so proud of you!"

"My lucky charm played a big role in them too." He winked and kissed her cheek.

"Whatever, but please don't ever put me on the spot like you did again!"

"I wanted to share that with you. If it wasn't for you and the Marinos there would be no Seguin Stars and I wouldn't have even been in the running for the Foundation Award."

"I'm so proud of you Tyler, that program is pretty incredible. You're helpin so many families. Thank you for lettin me play a role in that."

"Bay I want you to be a part of everything I do, always!"

"I love you!" She leaned into him more, then rotated and craned her neck to give him a sweet little kiss. Before they could get completely lost in the moment, they were interrupted with a tug on their legs and little whimpers. "What's wrong Sarah Kate?" Bailey knelt down to be on her niece's level.

“That, the, th.., that mean man won't let Alexis have a turn to drive the boat!" She pointed in the direction of the man dressed in full 1700’s sailor garb at the helm of the ship. "He said no hamicats. I tell him she's a girl not a ham or a cat but he no wisten."

Bailey and Tyler were both furious that anyone would treat one of their guests so disrespectfully. The fact it was Alexis only made it worse. "Thank you for telling us Sarah Kate. Your uncle and I will take care of this."

"It's ok Miss Bailey. I tried to tell Sarah Kate it wasn't a big deal and she could take a turn and I'd just watch." Bailey and Tyler both knew just by looking at Alexis that she was embarrassed and hurt.

"Alexis it's not ok! He had not right to say those words to you and treat you so disrespectfully. Do you want a turn?"

"I promise it's not a big deal."

"That's not what I asked. Do you want a turn?"

"Kind of, yea.”

"Then you're goin to get that turn! Tyler, will you please go.. " Bailey smiled as she realized Tyler was already having words with that crew member. “Come on girls, let's go steer this ship back on track!" She grabbed Sarah Kate's hands and Alexis followed closely beside them. Once they reached the helm, Tyler and the captain of the ship came down to greet them.

"Alexis, Sarah Kate this is Captain John."

"Hello pretty ladies, Tyler tells me you two would like to join my crew. Is that true?" Both girls giggled and shook their heads yes. "Well it's good to have you sailors on board! Now let's get to work and make sure this ship doesn't sink!"

The captain then took Sarah Kate's hand. Tyler undid Alexis' chest harness and seatbelt, picked her up, and carried her to the ship’s steering wheel at the helm. The girls each took turns pushing the different levers and steering the Liberty Clipper with the help of the Captain and Tyler.

Bailey placed her hand on her stomach while she watched Tyler in awe of how good he was with the girls. He was definitely a natural with kids. The fact he didn't hesitate to stand up for Alexis was even more endearing. "Little one, we're so lucky! You have the sweetest Daddy in the world!" She couldn't resist taking a several pictures and posted one with Tyler wearing the captain's cap and holding one girl in each arm in front of the ship’s wheel on Instagram. All three of them were clearly laughing at something Tyler said. She captioned it "the Captain and his best mates". After several minutes, Tyler and the Captain brought both girls down. Once Alexis was safely in her chair, the girls quickly took off to tell their parents about the special experience. After they were gone, the Captain profusely apologized to Tyler and Bailey for the crewmember that was rude to Alexis. He made it clear he would address the matter with him. Bailey and Tyler thanked the captain for his understanding and for allowing them to indulge the girls for a little bit. When the captain went back to work, Bailey wrapped her arms around Tyler's waist and he followed suit. "You have the most generous, lovin heart! Thank you for lovin me!"

"Always!" He bent down to brush his lips across hers. It didn't take long for the sweet and gentle kiss to turn into a heated one. If it weren’t for a few coughs and the ribbing from several of his teammates, they wouldn't have remembered they weren't alone. Bailey's cheeks were of course a light Crimson when they pulled apart. Tyler just laughed and brushed it off; he'd never be embarrassed to let everyone know exactly how much he loves Bailey. The two were inseparable the rest of the cruise while they celebrated with their family and friends.

After they said goodnight to their guests, Tyler drove Bailey back to the hotel. Not wanting to say goodnight just yet, he escorted her inside. They sat on a couch in the lobby talking about how perfect the evening had gone and what they were looking forward to most tomorrow. Being superstitious and knowing they could lose track of time and talk for hours, Bailey decided to set an alarm to make sure Tyler didn’t see her after midnight. When she pulled her phone out of her purse, she noticed she had several recent text messages and missed calls from her sister. Given their history, she and Tyler both agreed it was best for her to return Rebecca’s call so they didn’t make her angry.

“Hey Becca, sorry I didn’t call sooner, but my ringer was off and I didn’t have my phone out.” Tyler became concerned as Bailey’s body language shifted from happy and relaxed to tense as she stood up and started pacing. “Becca you have to slow down so I can understand you.” She walked back over to Tyler, took his hand and pulled him off the couch and towards the elevators while she continued to listen to her sister. “We’re on our way up now. Go find his license and insurance card so we can leave as soon as we get up there. Ok, the elevator’s here, so I’m goin to hang up.” Knowing something was clearly wrong, Tyler enveloped Bailey in a hug after she hung up. “It’s Daddy. Becca said his bag keeps fillin with blood. We have to get him to the hospital! Bailey cried into Tyler’s chest.

Tyler couldn’t believe his ears and that this was happening on the eve before what’s suppose to be the happiest day in their lives. He could understand if this was the universe’s way to say he’s not good enough for Bailey, but he knew Bailey and her family didn’t deserve this. His heart started breaking for them. Not knowing what to say, he just kissed the top of Bailey’s head and tightened his embrace in his best attempt to provide some comfort.

Notes

If I have any readers left please don't hate me for this chapter!!! I know I have been absolutely awful about posting updates, so I wouldn't be surprised if I lost all my readers. I started grad school and had no idea how different grad school is from undergrad. I didn't really think things through when I decided to take 4 classes while holding down a full time job. I learned the hard way that grad school is no joke! Anyways, that's why I haven't been writing or doing much of anything for that matter. I hope I can post at least a few more chapters before next semester starts.