Page 104 of No Rhyme or Roughing
We’d done plenty of more risqué things, but somehow, nothing felt as good as this.
Sydney’s legbounced rapidly as we sat on the couch across from Mr. Mac in his office.
Mr. Mac, seemingly oblivious to her nervousness, leaned back in his chair, crossing one leg over the other. “You know, I was a little taken aback by the dancing. I’ve known you a long time, Ryder, and I never would’ve imagined you’d come up with such a… creative way to save the team.”
I shrugged. “It was Sydney’s idea.”
“Oh, I know all about Miss Valentine’s involvement. And her new employment with the Sharks.” He smiled at her. “Congratulations.”
“Thanks,” she squeaked out. I reached over, placing a hand on her leg to still it.
Mr. Mac steepled his fingers, studying us.
“Are we in trouble?” Sydney practically screamed.
He raised a single gray brow. “Have you done something wrong?” His tone was calm, almost fatherly.
“Well, you caught us kissing on the ice. Not to mention the locker room incident. I really hope you guys clean the showers and?—”
I pulled her to my side. “Sydy, you might want to stop now.”
Her body shook with nervous energy.
Mr. Mac glanced at me, his expression a silent question. I shrugged, unwilling to elaborate.
After a moment that felt like an eternity, he put us out of our misery. “Ryder, what you’ve done is remarkable. We’re sold out for the rest of the season. Every local news outlet has applied for press credentials. Your jersey and Teddy’s are flying off the shelves.”
My face heated. “Just trying to help the team, sir.”
His smile started small but widened. “The team’s investors haven’t changed their minds.”
My chest hollowed.
Sydney leaned forward. “You look happy about that.”
“Oh, I am,” he said with a laugh. “With the numbers we’re seeing right now, I’ve been working the phones and visiting old friends and colleagues over the past two weeks.” He paused, clearly for dramatic effect. “I’ve secured enough investors to buy out the minority shareholders. We’re keeping the team in San Francisco.”
Breath flooded my lungs, and I had no words.
“We did it?” Sydney asked, her voice high with hope.
Mr. Mac nodded. “You did.”
She let out a screech—one she’d definitely be embarrassed about later—and lunged forward to hug a startled Mr. Mac. I joined them seconds later, wrapping them both in a tight squeeze.
This team—myteam—was staying right where it belonged.
“I can’t wait to tell Guardian,” Sydney cried.
Mr. Mac pushed us both back and straightened his suit with a huff. “Who the hell is Guardian?”
“Oh, Teddy didn’t tell you?” I flushed. “He’s the team’s new dog.”
Mr. Mac rolled his eyes. “Get out of my office, you two. Go have fun. You’ve earned it.”
He didn’t have to tell us twice. Sydney grabbed my hand and practically dragged me to the door. Once we were alone in the hallway, I pressed her up against the wall, capturing her lips in a bruising kiss before letting my mouth trail over her cheek.
“I love you,” I whispered, kissing the corner of hermouth. “I love you.” The other corner. “I fucking love you.”
