Page 17 of Heart of Ice

“It tastes the exact way I remember it from when I was a kid.” He took a bite of his own and we ate the rest of the ravioli in silence while sharing glances that spoke more than words could have.

Our plates were once again cleared away and soon after, the main course was served. “This looks so good, thank you,” I said to the server, and I wasn’t just saying it to be polite.

“Go ahead, give it a try,” Ruben said after they’d offered us fresh ground pepper, removed the shell from the lobster, and made sure we had everything we might need. I cut a bite of lobster and after dipping it in melted butter, I couldn’t help but groan.

“This is so good,” I said, making Ruben smile and take his own bite.

“I’m glad you like it,” he murmured.

“The company isn’t so bad either.” I wasn’t much for romance, or coming up with sweet words, but maybe I hadn’t met a person who made me want to be romantic because the more time I spent with Ruben, the more I wanted to show him how much I enjoyed that time.

“I agree. Tell me how you ended up playing for the Titans.” He took a bite of his prime rib as he waited for me to speak.

“Well, nothing too crazy. Like I said before, I’ve played for years and worked up to college, but there aren’t a lot of college hockey teams in California, so I ended up in Minnesota for a few years before I found out the Titans were looking for another goalie. I knew there wasn’t a chance I’d be playing in a game for a few years, so I’m shocked it’s all worked out how it did.”

“What was it like in Minnesota?” he asked.

“Cold, the winters were brutal, but perfect for hockey.”

“I’m glad you were able to move back here,” he said and covered my hand with his. I was realizing how much he liked touch. I liked touch when it led to sex but I wasn’t much on it until spending time with Ruben. I found I missed his hand in mine or at least touching mine.

“Me too, it’s nice to be back home.”And nice meeting you.

“Where’s the game next week?” Ruben asked.

“It’s at home again, and this team is good. Hopefully we can hold our own. It won’t be like today’s game, that’s for sure.” I still couldn’t believe that complete mess. “It was so bizarre.”

“I’ve never seen a team act the way they did. Do you think they’ll continue all season?”

“Hopefully not, or at least I hope we don’t have to play them again. Although another win is always good,” I said, making him laugh.

“And a game without injuries is also good.” He wiped his mouth and grinned. All through dinner we were either smiling or laughing and for a brief moment I thought of Joel, and how we’d never had a dinner like that.

“How do you feel about dessert?” I asked, changing the subject.

“A dinner without dessert is a crime against humanity,” he said with a completely serious face and tone. My brows shot upand his lip twitched before our conversation moved to what our favorite desserts were.

Sixteen

Ruben

Dinner was cleared andboth of us were quiet for a moment just enjoying the company. Max’s eyes found mine and this time his hand reached for mine on the table. “This has been really nice.” He brushed his thumb across the back of my hand as he spoke just as the server returned.

“Would you like to order dessert?” she asked while setting a tray on the table that held all of their offerings. The two of us leaned closer to look before deciding.

“I’ll take the chocolate cake,” Max said and looked at me.

“I think I’ll take the cheesecake, and I’ll also have the lemon cake.” She grinned as she lifted the tray.

“I’ll be right back with your order,” she said and turned to walk away.

“Two desserts?” Max asked.

“You’re splitting the lemon cake with me. And I wasn’t kidding about dessert.”

“I’ll make sure when I show up for dinner next time I arrive with dessert,” he said, making us both laugh.

“I’m holding you to that. I can’t remember the last time I’ve had such a good dinner,” I said, before drinking the last of my beer.

---