Teammates: Take Shots: Teammates, #2

By Alison Sommer

The Dart's first season was a success. But as they make preparations for their new season, complications are inevitable. Tessa's wrestling with her feelings for Fitz. Dawn and Michelle face their own parenting challenges. And Fitz forced her to decide what she is willing to endure in the name of saving her marriage. Can they run a successful hockey team while balancing their real-life problems, or will something have to give?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Alison Sommer
• Release date: Mar 17, 2021
• ISBN: 9781952057045

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Benton House Publishing

Benton House Publishing

bentonhousepublishing.com

Copyright © 2021 Alison Sommer

All rights reserved. This book may not be copied or transmitted without written permission from the author.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, business, events, and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Cover art by Predrag Markovic

Copy editing by Bethany Pennypacker

ISBN 978-1-952057-01-4 (Paperback)

ISBN 978-1-952057-04-5 (eBook)

For more information about the author and upcoming books, please visit the author’s blog at alioffthemark.com

Special thanks to Courtney Norgaard and Local Roots for being my friend, confidant, and teammate, and my home away from home.  Next round's on me.

Take Shots

Tessa

Friday, July 13th

Tessa rolled into the parking lot of Global Leaf, the same little restaurant where, just over a year ago, she and three of her teammates had met to plan the beginnings of their new hockey team—the Darts. That day felt like ages ago. The Darts had gone through so much in that first season, both on and off the ice. Michelle, Dawn, Fitz, and Tessa were more than just teammates now—the Darts more than just another old-lady, beer league hockey team.

Tessa let out a long, happy sigh as she threw the car into park and cut the engine. TGIF. Tessa was more than ready for the weekend, and thrilled to be starting it off here. Happy hour with her three best ‘hockey bitches’ wasn’t quite as good as actually playing hockey with them, but it was a very close second.

Tessa stepped out of her car and immediately spotted Fitz, watching her from the curb, a big, bright smile on her perfect face. Tessa smiled back. Fitz looked gorgeous in a casual, effortless way. Her strawberry-blonde hair was pulled back into a ponytail, and she wore a tank top and leggings that clung tightly to her athletic body. One look at Fitz and something inside of Tessa began to glow.

Tessa had only recently been able to truly admit to herself that she had fallen for Fitz. Thinking about Fitz made Tessa feel something she had never felt before: an uncomfortable combination of happiness and longing that made her heart flutter and her insides warm. It was at once fantastic and terrible, and she didn’t welcome it. But that didn’t make it go away. If anything, her feelings seemed to grow stronger the more she fought them.

Don’t think of her like that, Tessa chastised herself. She had promised herself never to let Fitz know how she felt. Fitz could never feel the same way—she had a husband and children—and if she ever were to find out, Tessa would die of shame. She’s just a teammate—a friend. Don’t act stupid. Tessa walked across the parking lot to where Fitz stood waiting for her.

It’s so good to see you! Fitz greeted Tessa with a big, warm hug.

Yeah, hey. Tessa felt her face grow hot as Fitz hugged her. She smells so good. Tessa closed her eyes for a brief moment before catching herself and pulling away. Snap out of it. How are you? Tessa asked.

Better now that I’m here. Fitz smiled sweetly. How about you?

Same. Tessa grinned back. Together, they walked through the restaurant and out onto the patio to where Dawn and Michelle were waiting. Michelle was sitting back in her chair, sunglasses on, looking relaxed and very tan. Summer agreed with Michelle. Dawn, on the other hand, looked tired and overheated in her navy scrubs, sweat beading her forehead.

Hey, bitches! Michelle said cheerfully as Fitz and Tessa joined them at the table. Team founders together again, huh?

"You know, we should really call ourselves the Dartsboard, Dawn said with a grin. It’s a little snappier than ‘Dart founders,’ don’tcha think?"

Oh my God, that’s so bad it’s good! Michelle let out a short laugh. "We are totally the Dartsboard."

I’ll toast to that. Fitz relaxed into her chair. "Oh, it’s so good to see y’all!"

"I know, right? I haven’t seen you bitches in, like, forever, said Michelle. I’ve missed you!"

We wouldn’t have to miss each other if you guys would just play summer hockey with me and Andy, said Tessa. Hockey was always more enjoyable with the Dartsboard around.

Michelle shook her head, her perfect chestnut waves swooshing around her face. "No way, you know my stance on summer hockey. You’re lucky I did that fucking tournament again," Michelle said, alluding to the Kegstanley Cup they’d played in back in early June.

Oh, hush, Michelle. You know you loved it. Fitz swatted at Michelle. The tournament had been even more fun than last year. Without the complications of putting together a new team, they had been able to enjoy it stress-free. They didn’t do any better in the standings, coming in fifth again, but it had been a blast nonetheless.

"Whatever. I’m still never playing in a summer league, thank you very much." Michelle flipped her hair back. Maybe Michelle would never play summer league, Tessa conceded, but Fitz would love it; Tessa knew she would.

What about you, Fitz? Tessa looked questioningly at her friend and captain.

Oh, I really wish I could play with you, Tess, Fitz said wistfully, her bright blue eyes sparkling in the sunlight. But for now, I think I’ll have to be satisfied with shooting pucks with you now and then.

Tessa gave Fitz an I-had-to-try shrug. She’d been pestering her about summer league since the regular season ended in the spring, but to no avail. Shooting pucks together is fun too, Tessa consoled herself.

I wish I had time for summer league, Dawn said, rubbing her temples. Life has been heckin’ stressful lately. I could really go for some hockey.

You do look stressed the fuck out, girl, said Michelle. No offense.

Tessa looked Dawn over. The older woman did look harried. Worry lines creased her light brown skin, and her posture was slumped.

What’s going on? Michelle asked.

My daughter Mari has been having some troubles with her mental health lately. She’s been diagnosed with depression and anxiety, and it’s just really hard. Dawn sighed. We’ve tried different meds, but we haven’t found anything that’s really helped yet. It’s frustrating. Sharon and I have been so preoccupied... And poor James. He just doesn’t understand what’s going on with his twin—frustrates him. They’re usually so close, but now, not so much. And on top of all that, Annabelle’s been really pushing boundaries. I know that’s normal for a seventeen-year-old, but right now it’s just a lot. Thank the gods Ian is an easy kid... Dawn shook her head. Sorry, ladies, that was a big load of poodoo to dump on you guys right off the bat.

Oh my gosh, Dawn, don’t apologize. Fitz reached over and squeezed her hand. That all sounds really hard. Please tell us if there’s anything we can do to help.

Tessa nodded, although she didn’t know what they could possibly do to help. Tessa’s brother had had mental health problems as a teen too. She couldn’t think of anything anybody could have done that would have made a difference. But her family didn’t talk about that sort of thing with others.

What’s up with Annabelle? Michelle asked. "Teen rebellion was so my thing. Maybe I can give you some insights."

Maybe you could. Dawn smiled wryly. "She’s testing her boundaries and our patience in a lot of ways, but lately it’s mostly the whole boy thing."

"Ooh, boy things were my specialty!" Michelle winked.

Ha, yeah, I could have predicted that one, boo-boo. Dawn shook her head. You might do a better job talking with her about boys than her two old lesbian moms. Annabelle is convinced that we are overly paranoid and hate all men. But how could I not be at least a little paranoid? I work in labor and delivery, fer crying out loud! I see more teen moms than a reality show. I keep threatening to bring Annabelle into work to watch a live birth... Dawn chuckled. "There’s nothing quite like seeing what can come outta there to make you think twice about what you put in. Don’tcha think?"

Tessa shuddered at the unwanted visual, but Michelle cackled with laughter.

Dawn, you are the best, Michelle hooted.

Is she feeling pressured for sex? Fitz asked seriously, sidestepping Dawn’s ‘humor’ and looking quite concerned. Tessa knew Fitz had dealt with that sort of pressure all too recently from her own jerk of a husband.

No, if anything, it’s the other way around. Dawn shook her head and laughed. Annabelle is very... forward. She’s pretty open about her interest in sex.

Is she having sex? Michelle asked bluntly.

She has, Dawn confirmed, sounding resigned but not upset.

"Wait, you know your daughter’s had sex?" Fitz stared at her, mouth open, eyes wide. She sounded horrified. Tessa was somewhat horrified herself.

Why are you telling us? Why are we talking about this at all? Tessa grumbled inwardly. Her friend’s child’s sex life was pretty much the last thing Tessa wanted to hear about. She downed the last of her beer.

What did you do when you found out? Fitz asked.

We made sure she had birth control, Dawn answered with a shrug. And gave her a good long lecture about being safe.

You’re acting so casual about it! Fitz wasn’t containing her shock one bit.

"So I take it you won’t be going out to buy condoms for McKayla in a couple of years? Michelle snickered. Fitz goggled at her, as if too flustered for words. Michelle shook her head. You should start getting used to the idea, Fitz. Like it or not, teens have sex. Better she gets birth control from you than be too embarrassed to get it at all. You don’t want grandkids yet, do you?"

I don’t think I... I can’t imagine..., Fitz stuttered, shaking her head. If Tom... Fitz clamped her mouth shut like she’d said a bad word.

"Yeah, you know Tom isn’t going to be helpful in the sex-ed department, said Michelle with a huff. There still seem to be some lessons he could stand to learn himself."

Fitz looked at her lap, clearly embarrassed.

Shut up about it already! Tessa snapped at Michelle, surprising both Michelle and herself.

"Look, Tessa, I get that sex isn’t your thing—"

Just leave Fitz alone, okay? Tessa grumbled.

Michelle narrowed her eyes. I may have been giving her a bit of a hard time, but I’m dead serious. Not to sound like a PSA or anything, but talking about these things is important. Good sex education reduces teen pregnancy and helps girls advocate for themselves. There’ve been studies. Look it up if you don’t believe me.

"Okay, fine, you made your point. Now can we please talk about something else?" Tessa begged. Fitz still looked uncomfortable, and Tessa’s own discomfort about the subject was starting to make her nauseous.

Sorry, boo-boo. Dawn clapped her hands together. Let’s talk about the tournament up north. Are we still thinking of doing that?

Yes, Tessa said, relieved. I think we are. Right?

"We totally are. It’s gonna be baller, said Michelle. I’ve already got a hotel picked out. It’s close to the rink and, more importantly, walking distance from a few restaurants and bars. It’s a decent price, and the rooms don’t look too disgusting."

Well, look at you, baby girl! Doing research for a tournament. Will wonders never cease? Dawn teased.

"Yeah, shut up. I’m doing research for a girls’ weekend. If there happens to be some hockey along the way, so be it." Michelle waved her hand dismissively.

That’s great. Thanks for looking into it, said Tessa. The extra help from Michelle was unexpected, but Tessa was glad for it. Fitz had been noticeably detached from the planning for this trip, leaving most of it to Tessa so far. I’ve talked to most of the team, she said. We might need to fill in a couple spots, but I think there’s enough interest to say it’s a go. We should register soon, though; I hear it fills up pretty fast.

On it! Michelle sang and pulled out her phone.

Wait, shouldn’t we be absolutely certain that we have enough skaters first? Fitz asked, chewing on her lip. "Have enough people already firmly committed?" She glanced awkwardly around the table.

Tessa wondered why she looked so unhappy. Fitz was usually the most eager about this sort of thing; her reluctance to jump in on the planning for the Duluth tournament didn’t sit right.

You’re still in, right? Tessa asked cautiously. Tom didn’t say you couldn’t go, did he?

He’d better fucking not have, growled Michelle.

No, no. I promise you, Tom did not say that I couldn’t go. Fitz shook her head. Sorry, I’m still on board. You’re right. We’ll find the skaters we need; we have time. Let’s register. Go ahead, Michelle.

Michelle

Friday, July 13th

Michelle squinted at Fitz. ‘Tom did not say that I couldn’t go,’ huh? Don’t think I didn’t notice what you did there. Michelle would have bet good money that Fitz had not so much as mentioned the trip to Tom. She wondered why but decided to let it go, for now. Michelle turned her eyes back to her phone and the tournament registration. Name, address, credit card... thank God for autofill.

Boom! That’s it, bitches. We’re going to Duluth! Michelle sat back.

Can I see the hotel you picked? Fitz asked. Reluctantly Michelle passed her phone over to Fitz. Wow, that’s more expensive than I would have expected for northern Minnesota. Fitz passed the phone over to Tessa, who whistled.

There’s not much up there between this and total fucking dives. Michelle snatched her phone back from Tessa. She’d looked at every hotel within a twenty-minute drive of the rink. This was the best they were going to get. The price isn’t that bad if you share a room with somebody. Michelle turned to Dawn, head raised, back straight. Dawn, my friend, would you do me the honor of sleeping with me? she asked haughtily.

Indeed, the honor would be mine. Dawn nodded, imitating Michelle’s posture and tone. Michelle grinned.

Across the table, Fitz looked at Tessa. How about you, Tessa? Wanna sleep with me? Fitz asked with a playful smile. Tessa stared at her, lips slightly parted like she wanted to say something but didn’t remember how to talk, as if her brain had stalled.

Fitz shifted in her seat. You don’t have to, she added uncertainly. If you’d rather be with Andy or somebody­—

No, yeah, no! Tessa’s brain seemed to sputter back to life. I do want to be with you, for the trip in Duluth, for sure, Tessa tripped over herself to say.

Oh, good! Fitz beamed. If Fitz noticed that Tessa had turned fire-engine red, she didn’t show it. Michelle regarded Tessa. For the most part, she looked like her normal, unremarkable self: dressed in khakis and a polo shirt, with her dyed-blonde hair and dark roots that never seemed fully tamed. Tessa looked like Tessa. And yet there was something just a little off.

So, what’s new with you, Tessa? Michelle asked. You seem like you have something on your mind today.

What? No. Tessa glanced furtively at Fitz. Nothing, really, I just... Work’s good—oh, wait! she exclaimed, sitting bolt upright. Michelle blinked at her.

I actually do have news. Tessa took a deep breath and grinned. I’ve been thinking of buying a house!

Oh, that is exciting! Fitz clapped her hands together.

Well, it’s about damn time, girl! Michelle sat back, gesturing with her drink. I never did get the whole living-at-home thing.

Tessa frowned at Michelle. I do it to help my parents, she said tersely. I’m not in a hurry to move out. The commute’s just getting a little tiring, is all.

Hey, whatever works for you. Michelle put up her hands. Damn, that girl is on edge today.

Have you started looking already? Fitz asked.

I’ve only looked online so far, but I’ve been kind of nerding out about it. Tessa described the apps and spreadsheets she was using for her house hunt. She wasn’t kidding; she really was being a giant nerd about the whole thing.

"Put down your spreadsheets and tell us: What’s your dream home look like? Michelle asked. She didn’t have a good sense of what Tessa would like, but she got the feeling that it might be close to the opposite of her own personal preferences. When Tessa had visited Michelle’s apartment last year, Michelle had gotten the distinct impression that she was not impressed. Which was ridiculous because her apartment was fucking amazing. Come on, bitch, paint us a picture of casa de Tessa."

I don’t know, exactly. Tessa shrugged. I know I don’t want to be totally surrounded by people; I want some open space. But I don’t really have time to deal with a big yard. So maybe like on a lake or something.

"Ooh, lakefront property? You must have bank saved." Michelle rubbed her fingers together, eyebrows raised.

You said ‘dream home,’ Tessa pointed out. I have been saving, but I don’t want to go overboard. It’s just me. I don’t need a five-bedroom McMansion or anything... which is what gets built on lakes these days, unfortunately. So maybe less ‘lakefront’ and more like wetland-front? Tessa shrugged again. I only just started looking. I haven’t seen anything in person yet. I don’t even have a real estate agent or anything.

Oh, I know a fantastic real estate agent! Fitz said. "I’ll hook you up. Then maybe I can come along to look at houses with you sometime. I love looking at houses."

Oh, yeah. That, I would do. Tessa fumbled her words again; she was such an awkward little woman. Michelle didn’t really get Tessa, but she did know that buying a house would be a big step for her. And that deserved to be celebrated.

Michelle raised her glass. Here’s to our new team project: getting our li’l Tess here a real grown-up home!

Huzzah! Dawn lifted her glass as well.

Yes, and we can help you move too! Oh, this will be fun. Fitz rubbed her hands together gleefully.

Looking at houses is one thing, Michelle said, throwing back her drink. But since when is moving fun?

When it’s somebody else moving. Dawn laughed.

"So true! I never want to move again, Fitz said, shaking her head, her blonde ponytail whipping around behind her. Last time we moved, it was incredibly stressful. I thought Tom was... Fitz shut her mouth and shivered. It wasn’t fun."

Michelle focused her gaze on Fitz. You thought Tom was what? It was the second time Fitz had brought him up, only to clam up midsentence. It almost seemed like she wanted them to ask about him. And Michelle was more than happy to oblige.

Speaking of, how are things with... Don’t say Douchey McAssface. Tom? Michelle asked. Fitz shifted uncomfortably in her seat. Not great, that’s clear enough.

I’m...

Don’t say ‘fine,’ I swear to God. Michelle looked sternly at Fitz.

Fitz sighed. I’m feeling a little stuck, she admitted. It could be worse. It’s not... it’s not as bad as it’s been. Fitz chewed on her bottom lip. But it’s not getting any better either. Her candor surprised Michelle; she thought it would take longer to get anything close to a real answer out of Fitz.

Considered kicking his ass out yet? Michelle asked. It was what Fitz really should do.

Kind of the opposite, Fitz said meekly, shrugging one shoulder. We recently renewed our marriage covenant.

Why the fuck did you do that? Michelle blurted out, but then she saw the look of shame and hopelessness on Fitz’s face. Don’t be snippy with her when it’s him you hate. Sorry, I mean— Michelle began.

I know what you mean. It sounds stupid. I didn’t like the idea at first either, Fitz admitted. It felt like... like putting up a painting to cover a crack in a wall rather than patching the wall.

Then why’d you do it? Dawn asked.

Because I love him, and I’m not ready to give up on that. Fitz chewed her lip again. But since we didn’t seem to be getting anywhere, I thought having a promise of faithfulness would at least help keep us going.

"Faithfulness? Are you worried about him cheating?" Michelle asked.

No, he’s not that kind of guy. Really, Fitz insisted. When I said ‘faithfulness,’ that’s not really what I meant. I meant it more like... like a promise to keep faith in our marriage. So that even if things never... Fitz was visibly struggling for her words. I just want to know that he’ll keep trying—that he won’t leave me.

"Him leave you? You have got to be kidding me. He doesn’t even deserve you. Michelle couldn’t believe what she was hearing. It sounds like he’s messing with your head, girl."

"Renewing our marriage covenant was the counselor’s idea, and I’m the one who told him we needed to go to counseling, so how is that him ‘messing with me’?" Fitz said, her voice raised in sudden defensiveness.

Michelle put up her hands. Okay, I’m sorry. I just don’t know what to say, Fitz. I worry about you. None of what Fitz was saying made Michelle feel even the slightest bit better about the situation between her and Tom. If anything, Michelle was more concerned.

I worry too, baby girl, Dawn added softly. Tessa nodded. She looked downright sick.

I don’t want to make y’all worry. Fitz sighed heavily. "It’s hard, but we’re trying. I really believe that he never meant to hurt me. I may feel stuck, but I don’t feel desperate. We’re still going to counseling. Who knows, maybe we’ll have a breakthrough next week. In the meantime, it’s... livable."

Michelle took a deep breath and swallowed a few of the more colorful comments that came to mind. If you push her too much, she won’t tell you shit. Okay, well, if you say so. I still think you deserve better than that dickhole and better than ‘livable,’ but I’ll shut my mouth. Just remember that we’re here for you, bitch, said Michelle. Dawn and Tessa nodded.

Thanks, y’all. Fitz smiled. So, uh, back to hockey... Tessa, while you’re confirming players for the tournament, can you check in with folks about the regular season too?

I have been, Tessa said, nodding. So far, so good. Other than Emily, I think everybody is going to come back. Although...

Although what? Fitz asked.

Have we decided about Christine? Are we going to have her play full-time now that Emily’s gone? Tessa asked.

Michelle threw her head back and groaned. Christine was one of the most obnoxious women Michelle had ever met.

"We know your opinion, Michelle, Fitz said, rolling her eyes. But she played so well in the Kegstanley. She scored or assisted half our goals! I think we can put up with a little chattiness for that."

You say ‘chattiness’; I say ‘uncontrollable verbal diarrhea.’

Could you not, though? Tessa wrinkled her nose.

Whatever, Michelle scoffed. Just so long as I don’t have to play on her line, I guess I’ll survive... Tell you what, captain. Promise to keep me with Dawn or Nikki, and I won’t say another unprovoked thing about Christine and her putrid stream of unwelcome word vomit.

"Could you just never say those particular words again?" Tessa muttered.

Alright, Michelle. Buy the next round and you’ve got yourself a deal. Fitz grinned.

Works for me. Cheers, bitches.

Dawn

Friday, July 13th

How was happy hour? Sharon asked when Dawn arrived home. Sharon was curled up on the sofa, sketching and watching TV. She looked cozy and cute all cuddled in her blankets and pillows. Dawn flopped down beside her wife. She nuzzled Sharon’s shoulder until Sharon put down the notepad and put her arms around Dawn instead. Dawn needed cuddles. She felt drained; the energy she’d expected to gain from an evening with friends was conspicuously absent. Sharon rubbed her back. What’s up, sweetie? Was happy hour not fun?

No, it was fun; it was just a little... I don’t know. Dawn couldn’t quite pinpoint what about ‘happy hour’ had left her feeling less than happy. Maybe it was just all that time sitting in the sun, but I feel worn out.

Tell me about it, Sharon said.

Well, we talked about going up north. You know, I don’t think I get enough credit for coming up with that idea.

Is that what’s gotcha down? Sharon asked.

Naw. Dawn shook her head. It was fun to see Michelle and Tessa all excited planning for it.

And what about Fitz? Sharon asked.

What about Fitz? Dawn sighed heavily. That’s it, isn’t it? I don’t know, sweetness. There’s something not right there.

You’re worried about her, Sharon said. It wasn’t a question. What’s going on?

Michelle asked her about Tom. She didn’t really say much, but she did say she feels ‘stuck,’ although ‘trapped’ might be a better descriptor. Hearing her talk about her marriage... Dawn took Sharon’s hand in hers and lightly stroked her wedding band. Just think, Fitz was barely older than Annabelle when she met the boy that became her husband. She was so young, and now she’s chained to this seemingly manipulative man. It makes me worry about Annabelle. She’s so intent on finding the guy for her, her own personal OTP... I think hearing about Fitz’s husband so soon after talking about Annabelle having sex was—

Wait, what? You told them Annabelle’s having sex? Sharon sat back.

Oops? Dawn shrugged deep into her shoulders. I only started to say she was being a little rebellious, and, well, it ended up coming out. It’s not like I started the conversation with ‘Oh, hey, guess what Annabelle’s doing?’ Dawn hadn’t thought anything of it at the time, but now she was feeling a little guilty under Sharon’s gaze.

Hmm... Sharon let out a slow breath and drew Dawn back into her arms. So, what about the combination of Annabelle’s personal business and Fitz’s... Oh, I see where you’re going with this: You’re worried that Annabelle’s going to end up like Fitz?

It was more of a general feeling than a concrete thought. Dawn rubbed her belly where the disquiet tickled at her insides. Annabelle wading into the world of adult relationships makes me uneasy sometimes. Putting words to the feeling was helping ease the discomfort.

Baby, she’s not wading in. She’s taking a running start for a cannonball into the deep end. Sharon snorted. It makes me beyond uneasy, but that’s what mothers are for, right? We’re the lifeguards telling her to slow down. Stop running. Be safe.

And we’ll be the ones to jump in to save her if she starts to drown, Dawn added.

Exactly. Sharon kissed Dawn’s forehead.

This metaphor has me picturing giant inflated condoms as lifeguard buoys, you know. Dawn gave Sharon a lopsided grin.

You’re a giant dork, you know. Sharon kissed her.

That’s right, and you married me. Dawn smiled. She settled back into Sharon’s arms and looked up at the picture on the bookshelf of Annabelle. She looked so much like Sharon at that age, with her cherubic features, long hair, and soft curves. She was such a pretty girl; there would be no shortage of boys wanting to ‘swim’ with her. Dawn sighed. I hope we taught her to ‘swim’ well enough to avoid sharks like Tom.

"If not, we’ll just have to use the... ‘shark-repellent bat spray’!" Sharon said dramatically.

Now who’s the giant dork? Dawn laughed, poking Sharon in the side. I’m glad I have you here ‘lifeguarding’ with me, Shar. I’m feeling a lot better than I did when I first came home. Thanks, sweetness.

"That’s what I’m