Page 125 of Tempting the Player
“No,” she protests. “But I can tell by that stubborn glint in your eye that you’re going to insist I lay down anyway.”
“You know me so well.”
Light laughter slips from her sweet lips as I scoop her up and carry her into the bedroom. She had a big day trying to assure everyone that she’s fine.
I set her feet on the ground. While I get her my favorite shirt, she strips out of her leggings and tank top.
“Thank you for taking such good care of me.” Her eyes are heavy as I pull the T-shirt down over her head.
“It’s the least I can do.”
She brushes her fingers under her hair to free it from inside the shirt, then steps forward and places a hand on my chest. “Stop trying to blame yourself.”
My jaw tightens. “I never should have left you alone. Not even for a second.”
“You can’t follow me around everywhere I go for the rest of my life.”
“The hell I can’t.”
Her smile grows. She thinks I’m kidding, but I’m not.
“No, you really can’t,” she says. “And I would never want that. This job was always supposed to be temporary.” Her voice lowers. “I heard Felix congratulate you, so I’m assuming the Rams wised up and decided to offer you a contract without trying out. Hendrick, that’s amazing. I’m so happy for you.”
I take a step closer and wrap my arms around her back. “I had a call with them. They understood the situation and offered to move the tryout a few days, but I told them no. I’m not going back.”
Her green eyes flame with surprise.
“And before you say anything, it’s not just about you.”
“Oh good. I wouldn’t want to get a big head.” She laughs. “You’re staying for your brothers. I understand why, but are you sure? It’s a lot to give up.”
“It’s not, though. That’s the thing. I love football and I enjoyed playing, but giving it up doesn’t feel like a sacrifice. It just feels...right. I want to be here with them and with you.”
“Admit it, you can’t bear the thought of not seeing my face every day.” She leans forward like she’s going to press her lips to mine but stops before they make contact. “Or kissing me a thousand times a day.”
“A thousand?”
“Rough estimate. I’ve never actually counted, but that sounds like a fun game.”
“It sounds like a fantastic game.” I close the distance. “One.”
She laughs lightly.
“I love you,” I tell her and then kiss her again. “Two.”
Her lips curve into a smile.
“I’m so in love with you.” My throat is thick with emotion. “I don’t know if I can ever forgive myself for not figuring it out sooner. Not getting there faster.”
“Stop. It wasn’t your fault. Letting him put that thought in your head is him winning. And fuck him.”
It isn’t as simple as letting myself off the hook, but I know her words are true.
“No more talking about Ted tonight.” She kisses me again. “Three. And also, I’m in love with you too. Like really, really in love. I’m basically living out my own romantic comedy. Or maybe it’s a drama. A romantic dramedy.” Smiling, she brings her lips to mine again and lets them linger.
“You forgot to count.” I cup the back of her head.
Her eyes lock on mine. “Infinity.”
