Page 61 of Rookie Season
Groans go up.
“What’re we going to do about the game?” Atlas grouches.
“LA will dance on our graves,” Jay moans.
“Not possible,” Ryan weighs in. “They can’t record a loss. Tell them to move it.”
“Yes, I’ll have the league move an entire game date with broadcast deals and ticket sales so we can have our dick-measuring match,” Chloe says evenly.
“It’s not so bad, you know,” Nova says when we’re side by side in front of the dishwasher.
“What’s not?”
“Dating a Kodiak.”
Last night, I figured there was some special magic up here. The Christmas spirit edged its way into my grinchy soul.
But the idea that Ryan and I could actually date won’t leave my head.
I keep thinking about it all morning: while we clean up breakfast, while I sneak a shower, while we enjoy the last of the cabin.
It’s crazy. I’m not looking for a relationship. My life revolves around the bar. Cozy date nights and spilling each other’s deepest fears are not on my bingo card.
Not to mention Ryan’s experiencing the biggest swoop upward in his young career while I’m wrestling with my own.
Case in point: My dad texted to remind me he had to stock up on beer and to say we can’t afford the new lighting fixtures I want to buy.
Which we could if he’d lean on Clay for a moment or let me pay for them.
There’s a knock on my door while I’m packing.
Ryan.
He leans a shoulder against the half-open doorway, his eyes full of so much I want him to say and never say all at once. “Chloe not here?”
I turn back to my duffel, setting my makeup bag on top and reaching for the zipper. “I think she’s outside on her phone.” I slide the zipper closed. “Hopefully you guys will get back in time for the game.”
“Don’t tell anyone, but I wouldn’t be mad if we didn’t,” he says.
Footsteps at my back have my awareness dialing up. God, I have it bad for this guy.
“I’m sure you could use another day off. You and me both.”
Ryan chuckles. “That’s not it.”
He’s close enough to touch me.
Finally, he does.
It’s a hand on my arm, but I glance back because I can’t resist.
“I’m having too much fun with you.”
“With me?” I echo.
“And everyone,” he adds as though he thinks I’ll slip under his arm and out the door if he comes on too strong.
Maybe I will.
