Page 23 of Penalty Zone

“Now imagine Drake has the puck, skating full speed at you,” he whispers so only I can hear. “Check your face in the mirror. Notice your concentration. Don’t change your face when you check your cards.”

He’s close enough that his breath tickles my ear, and his leg presses up against mine. I tug at the collar of my shirt, happy my reflection doesn’t give away my desire to be closer to him.

I peek and have an ace and a king. Leo clears his throat, and I see my expression in the mirror. I’m smiling from ear to ear. Zero poker face. I groan.

“It was your first try. Keep practicing.” Leo folds with a flick of his wrist.

I’ll do anything to keep his attention focused on me. Even if it’s torture.

Chapter 11

Leo

Caleb’s a quick study, eager to please. There’s no excuse for how close I’m sitting and inhaling his sweet scent like a warm, lazy summer day. I don’t remember the last time I spent a day basking in the summer sun, but he makes it seem possible.

Winning at poker requires strategy and risk in addition to the cards dealt. Caleb has good instincts, and on the few hands he’s able to master his face, he wins all of Lucky’s chips.

“Not so lucky now, huh.” Caleb gloats, and Lucky shrugs, unconcerned he’s the first out.

A zing of excitement zips through me because of Caleb’s contagious enthusiasm. I’ve forgotten my own cards and drink in his success.

The images filter through my mind of all the times he’s obeyed my commands without question. He has dropped to the ice every time I asked. I adjust my cock under the table from the inappropriate memories.

“Keep this up, and we won’t be able to call you Baby Benz anymore. You’ll earn a seat at the big boy table.” Ace rocks back in his chair.

“Don’t you know the kids’ table is always more fun?” Caleb retorts, not missing a beat. “I already earned my spot, fork you very much.”

Gray laughs. “Fork you. Classic.”

“Agreed. The nickname is out.” Ace waves his hand as if it’s a decree.

My pride swells from his ability to stand up for himself without offending his captain.

Drake plays with precision and ruthlessness. He’s a worthy opponent but doesn’t play with the caliber of players I do. That’s the advantage of semi-retirement; I play in charity tournaments and competitively.

“Next time, Drake. Watch out.” Caleb chuckles when he loses and pushes back from the table.

Inexplicably, I widen my legs so my knee stays in contact with his thigh. He’s comforting, something I’m not used to, and it’s hard to remember why it’s wrong.

We play until only Drake and I are left. I’ve got a flush and show Caleb my cards. He does not disappoint me as his face lights up brighter than the gigantic holiday tree in Manhattan.

Drake isn’t amused by my obvious show but offers me congratulations after the hand.

Caleb stands up to stretch, showing a very light, thin line of hair from his stomach to his waistband. I turn away, licking my lips and cursing myself.

“I’m not sure I should thank you for playing or punch you for winning,” Lucky jokes and claps my shoulder. Drake wraps him in his arms so his hand falls away.

“That’s our cue to get out before their restraint breaks.” Ace holds open the door as I wheel out my overnight bag.

“I’m passing on the kissy face.” Caleb turns pink when his eye catches mine. His flushed skin shouldn’t make my stomach swoop.

My room is on the left, but Caleb walks to the right and my feet follow him. Nothing good will come of pursuing him, so I stop and check my room number.

Ace and Gray have disappeared into their respective rooms, and Caleb pauses, glancing at me nervously.

“What’s going on, eh?” His nerves bring out my accent.

He shifts his weight, staring at the floor, which only increases my curiosity. He’s an open book shutting his cover. I’m half terrified he’ll ask me into his room. Being alone with him is a recipe for disaster.

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