Page 109 of If You Love Me

CHAPTER 32

LEXI

Roman

Your ass in those pants is a revelation.

I’m fantasizing about bending you over your desk.

And my dining room table.

And the arm of my couch.

Only a handful of weeks before fantasy becomes a reality.

Unless you’re on board with Ryker handling the playoffs.

I can have my paperwork filed by the end of the day.

This has become a regular habit of Roman’s. He sends me texts about my outfit, his future plans for getting me out of it, and how it could happen sooner if he retires early, all while we’re standing right beside each other. It would be an appealing option if it wouldn’t break the entire team’s heart. I’m about to say something, but the elevator doors slide open.

I almost opt for the stairs because Donnie is leaning againstthe wall inside the elevator. But Roman steps inside and puts his hand over the sensor, so I have no choice but to join him. Donnie glances between us and says hello.

I smile and say hi, moving to stand on the opposite side of the elevator.

“How you doing, Donnie?” Roman asks, always the conversationalist.

“Good. Getting close to the end of the season. How are you feeling about that?” he asks.

Roman pockets his phone. “Good. Ryker has really stepped up, and he’ll be ready to take over come fall. Coach Forrester has been instrumental in making sure the defensive players are prepared for the shift.”

Donnie’s gaze slides my way. “I’m sure you’ve made that easier, seeing how involved you are.”

Roman narrows his eyes. “I’ve always worked closely with the enforcers. It’s a symbiotic relationship.”

“Yeah, of course. Gotta work together to keep the team strong.” Donnie seems to backtrack a little.

The elevator doors open, and all three of us step into the hall.

Donnie dips his chin. “Have a good day. You know where to find me if you need anything.”

“Sure do,” Roman replies.

Donnie disappears around the corner, and Roman turns to me, but before he can say anything, Hemi appears.

“Lexi! Hey, Roman.” Her smile widens.

“Hey, Hemi. See you on the ice later.” Roman touches my shoulder before heading down the hall to Vander Zee’s office.

“Sure thing.” I wave and focus on Hemi. “How’s it going?”

“Fine. Good. Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt you and Roman.”

I wave the comment away. “You didn’t. What’s up?”

“I was just talking to Hammer about lunch today. If you’re around, you should join us.”

“I’d love that. What time are you thinking?”