Page 29 of Off The Rush
Okay, deal.
“Whoa, what’s going on?” Tessa asks, noticing my sudden change in demeanor.
“I’m going to watch Alec’s practice tonight and then we’re having dinner,” I explain, shifting my weight nervously. “It’s just… I don’t know what to wear.”
Tessa grins, her eyes lighting up as she jumps to her feet. “Well, lucky for you, I am an expert in dressing for any occasion. Come on, let’s raid your closet.”
As we rummage through my wardrobe, I can’t help but overthink the situation as usual. What kind of impression do I want to make? I don’t want to look like I’m trying too hard, but I don’t want to appear disinterested either. And what if something happens between Alec and me? I’ve been attracted to him since we first met, but I’m trying to keep those feelings in check. Then, to make things even more complicated I like his two roommates too.
“Emma, focus,” Tessa says, snapping me out of my thoughts. “How about this cute top?”
I sigh, feeling the pressure mounting. “Sure, I guess that works.”
“Alright, now let’s pick out some jeans and shoes to complete the outfit,” Tessa instructs, her enthusiasm never wavering.
I follow her lead, trying my best to push my worries aside. After all, it’s just practice and dinner with Alec.
An hour later I step into the chilly hockey rink, I pull my coat tighter around me and scan the bleachers. The air is thick with the scent of sweat and ice, a strangely comforting combination. I spot my friend Audrey, whose brother is on the team, and make my way over to her, feeling the cold seep into my bones as I walk.
“Hey, Emma!” She greets me enthusiastically, making room for me to sit next to her. “You’re back! What brings you here today?”
“Uh, well,” I stammer, trying to sound casual. “Alec asked me to come. We’re kind of… dating?”
“Really?” Audrey raises an eyebrow but seems genuinely happy for me. “That’s great! He’s a good guy.”
As practice starts, I find myself mesmerized by the guys running drills on the ice. Their movements are swift and powerful, each player focuses on their task. My eyes drift towards JD in the net, and I’m impressed by his agility and skill.
I was shocked to find out that JD is Alec’s roommate. A part of me was a little disappointed because that means JD knows I’m “dating” Alec, which probably means he won’t keep hitting on me. Not that I’m sure what I want to happen with Alec anyway. It’s all so confusing.
As I watch the players, I can’t help but admit to myself that I’m attracted to all of them, which feels wrong. They’re all so different, yet each one has qualities that draw me in. But I need to focus on this fake dating thing with Alec; it’s not like I can have feelings for three guys at once.
“Emma, are you okay?” Audrey asks, snapping me back to reality. “You seem a little lost in thought.”
“Sorry,” I reply, forcing a smile. “Just getting caught up in the game.”
“It’s okay if you’re bored,” she laughs, and we continue to watch the practice together and chat about the music program.
Audrey is easy to get along with.
The sound of the final whistle pierces the air, signaling the end of practice. As the players begin to gather their gear and leave the ice, Alec waves me over, a bright smile on his face. I can’t help but return the grin, my heart pounding in anticipation. Luka and JD hang back on the ice, but they’re watching us. I raise my hand in a small wave as I approach.
“Hey,” I say breathlessly as I reach Alec. His arms wrap around me in a warm embrace, causing butterflies to erupt in my stomach.
“Hey yourself,” he replies, his voice low and smooth. “Can I kiss you? You know, just to make it look real for my coach?”
His lips brush against my ear as he whispers the question, sending shivers down my spine.
“Okay,” I nod hesitantly, giving him permission.
Alec’s strong hands gently cradle my face, tilting it up to meet his gaze. His blue eyes are intense and filled with a warmth that makes my heart race even faster. Slowly, he leans in, closing the gap between us. Our lips touch tentatively at first, a soft, sweet connection that sends tingles through my entire body.
The kiss deepens, becoming more passionate and electrifying. Our mouths move together in perfect harmony as if we’ve done this a thousand times before. Alec’s lips are soft and warm, tasting faintly of the mint gum he must have been chewing during practice. The sensation of his tongue teasing mine sends a jolt of desire coursing through me, and I find myself clinging to him, unwilling to break the connection.
The world around us fades away as we continue to kiss, leaving only the two of us and the undeniable chemistry that crackles between us. For a brief moment, I forget about our fake relationship, my complicated feelings for JD and Luka, and everything else. All that matters is the taste of Alec’s lips, the feeling of his strong arms around me, and the sparks that ignite with every touch.
The lingering taste of Alec on my lips sends a shiver down my spine as we break apart, both wide-eyed and breathless. For a moment, all I can do is stare into his vibrant blue eyes and wonder if he’s feeling the same inexplicable pull that I am. Even though I know this kiss was just part of our fake dating game, it feels terrifyingly real.
“Ahem,” JD clears his throat, successfully yanking us out of our reverie. My cheeks flush with embarrassment as I glance over at him, noticing Luka behind him. It seems they’ve both witnessed our little performance.
