Pass Interference: An Enemies to Lovers Second Chance Romance (The Denver Mountain Lions Book 2) Emily Silver
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FLAGONTHEPLAY
PassInterference:
Definition: Ajudgmentcall madebyanofficial whoseesadefensiveplayer makecontactwiththe intendedreceiver beforetheball arrives,thusrestrictinghisopportunitytocatchtheforwardpass.
Acknowledgments
Aboutthe Author
AlsobyEmilySilver
CONTENTS
antablow job?”
I swirl my drink as the lights strobe around me. The blonde sitting next to me had my number the minute I walked into this club tonight. I can’t say that I mind the attention. Being in my position,itcomeseasily.
“Sure.”
The dark corner of the club hides us as she slides my zipper down and takes my dick into her warm,wetmouth.Alcohol swirlsthroughmyveinsasIlosemyselfinthiswoman.Shit,whatwasher nameagain?Ican’tevenremember.NotlikeI’ll remember itafter tonightanyway.
Thefeel ofher lips wrappedaroundmebrings mecloser totheedge.Shesucks andlicks her way downmydick.It’seasytogetlostinher.Toturnoffthenoiseinmyhead.
Atinyvoice inthe backofmyhead tells me Ishouldn’t be doingthis. But as the mysterywoman
Carli maybe? swirlsher tonguearoundtheheadofmydick,I’mexplodingdownher throat.
“Fuck.” Iclose myeyes, restingmyhead onthe backofthe seat. Iwill myselfto feel better about thisthanIactuallydo.
This has beenmyscene for as longas I’ve beeninthe league.Butrightnow,Ican’tmuster upany energytocarefor thepersonbesideme.Itmakesmetheworstkindofdick,butIcouldn’tcareless.
The blonde in question tucks my now limp cock back into my pants, wiping her mouth as she straddlesme.
“Care to go back to my place?” Her lips are wet and her eyes hazy. Aswitch flips, and the last thingIwanttodoisheadbacktoher place.
Istand,settingher onthepaddedseatofthebooth.
“Sorry,babe,gottago.”
“What, that’s it?” Her voice is high and shrieky. It tells me I’m making the right choice here. Jersey chasers are all the same wanting to get in the sack with a football player. They don’t care who,justaslongastheygetone.
Idropakissonher cheek.“Practiceinthemorning.Don’tworry,I’ll cover your tab.”
Shesneersatme.“You’readick.”
“Never saidIwasn’t.”
I leave mytab openfor her at the bar and head out into the humid Denver night. It’s pushingone a.m.Tomorrow isgoingtobeabitch.
It’soneofthefirstoptional off-seasontrainingdaysbeforecampstartsintwoweeks.
The teamsays it’s optional, butitlooks bad ifyouaren’tthere. And withthe madness offootball
seasonstartingsoon,Iknew Ineededtoblow offsomesteamtonight.
Iknow I’madick,butjerseychasersareperfectfor aquickrelease.
No emotion, no attachment. It’s how I’ve been living since joining the Denver Mountain Lions. Mightnotbe the mostmeaningful ofexistences, butit’s easyand works for me. Because itallows my solefocustobeonfootball.
And not anything else that I’mmissing in life. Or the who I’ve been missing in my life all these years.
THE BLARING ring of my phone pulls me from sleep. I know that ringtone. I set it specifically so I could ignore it. Sunlightbeams inthroughthe opencurtains inmyroom. The buzzfromlastnighthas wornoff.
Blessedly,theringingstops.Butthebuzzingdoesn’t.Igroan,rollingover tograbmyphoneoffthe nightstand.Hundredsofnotificationslightupmyscreen. Fuck.
Thistime,whenmydadcallsagain,Ianswer.
“Whattheactual fuck,Colin?”
Iwince,pullingthephoneawayfrommyear.“Whatisgoingon?”
Hisscornisfeltthroughthephoneevenfromhundredsofmilesaway.“Haveyounotlookedatthe newstoday?”
“Christ.”Iscrubahanddownmyface,notwantingtoactuallydoit.
“It’salmosteight.Getoutofbedandcall mewhenyoudo.”
Heends thecall.ThelastthingI’ll bedoingis callinghimback.WhenInoticeamissedcall from myagent,Iknow shit’shitthefan.
Icall himbackwithoutbotheringtoopenanynotificationsonmyphone.
“Colin. Seems you’ve really stepped in it this time.” Earl doesn’t beat around the bush, getting straighttothepoint.It’soneofthereasonshe’smyagent.
“What’sgoingon?”
“Looks like the womanyouwere withlast night did not appreciate how youtreated her. There’s an article circulating about what a ‘pompous, egotistical man-whore’you are.” He clears his throat. “Her words.”
“Fuuuuck.”
“I’ve already had three calls from Denver’s management this morning. This doesn’t look good, Colin.”
“Youthink?” I snap. Now I’monedge. Sure, it might’ve felt good last night, but now I’mpaying theprice.
“You’re in a contract year. Players have been traded for a lot less. You know this isn’t how Denver likestheir playerstoact.”
“It’snotliketheyknow everything.”
Earl guffaws.“Yes,Iwill besuretotell themthatthisonewomanisn’teventhetipoftheiceberg. I’msurethey’dlovetoknow how manywomenyou’veactuallybeenwith.”
“What canI do?” I ignore him, tryingto go into problem-solvingmode. I know Earl has cleaned upafew messesfor mehereandthere,butmostofthetime,Ikeepmybusinesstomyself.
“Maybethinkwithyour brainnexttime.”
I roll my eyes. Climbing out of bed, I find discarded sweats on the floor and pull them on. My footsteps echothroughoutmyemptyhouse as Ihead towardthe kitchen. It’s tooearlytodeal withthis conversationandnothavecaffeineinme.
“Sowhat,isthislikemythirdstrikeandI’mgone?Nolonger aMountainLion?”EvenasIsaythe words,Ifeel thecrackinmychest.
Denver is all I’veever known.IwentstraightfromKnoxvilletoDenver andhaven’tlookedback. To think I could lose everything because of one mistake makes me sick to my stomach. I’ve never claimedtobe the smartestguyinthe room,butInever thoughtwhatIwas doingwouldjeopardize my spotwiththeteam.
“Tell meIdidn’tfuckuptoobad,Earl.”MaybeifIsayit,Icanwill ittobetrue.
“IhaveameetingwiththeGMtoday.Yougotopracticeandactlikeeverythingisfine.”
“Andthenwhat?”
I start the coffee that’s waitingto be brewed. I could use a shot of somethingstronger right now, butit’sprobablynotthebesttime.
“Then you go home and stay at home. I don’t want to see your ugly mug on any newspaper or tabloidfor therestoftheseason.There’snoroomfor youtofuckupagain.Youhear me?”
Histoneisfinal.
Isuckina lungful ofair, tryingto take inwhathis words meanfor myfuture. Inod, knowingfull well hecan’tseeme.
“Do you understand me? I don’t think I need to impress upon you the seriousness of your situation.”
“Iunderstand.Boyscoutfromhereonout.”
“Good.Staybyyour phone.I’ll call youonceIknow more.”
Heendsthecall withoutanother word.
WhatthefuckdidIdotomyself?
ow about this outfit? Does this one work?” I turn, checking the skirt from all angles in the mirror.
“Itlooksfine,”Grier replies.
I aima glare her wayinthe mirror. She’s nestled amongpiles of clothes onmybed. “It can’t be just fine. IthastobeperfectifIwanttonail thisjobinterview.”
Grier twirls a lock of auburn hair around her finger. “You’ll nail it based on the fact that you’re you.”
“That’snotavoteofconfidence.”
“They’dbecrazynottotakeyouon.You’reoneofthesmartestpeopleI’veever met.”
Islip outofmyskirtand toss itonto the bed. I’ve knownGrier since myfirstdayofgrad school. Ifitwasn’tfor her,Idon’tthinkIwouldhavemadeitthisfar intotheprogram.CUBoulder hasoneof the hardest sports management programs in the country. It was a lot of late nights studying and then passingthetimebetweentestswithmargaritasandoccasional shotsoftequila.Butlotsofmargaritas.
“IfIgetthis internship,whoknows how manydoors itcouldopenfor me? Ineedtobe better than fine.Ineedtobesharp.”
“Don’t get yourself worked up. It’ll only stress you out more.” Grier stands, swatting my ass as she goes to my closet. Shifting through what little remains, she pulls out a sleek black dress. “Wear this.Pair itwithmysnakeskinheelsandyour necklaceandyou’ll looklikeabadass.”
Itoywiththe necklace, tracingits wornletters. Evenafter all these years, I’ve never beenable to takeitoff.It’smysafetynet,eventhoughthatpersonisnolonger inmylife.
“You’reright.Simpleandclassic.”
“Damnstraight. You’re too inyour head aboutit. You’re goingto crushthis interview. They’d be stupidnottotakeyou.”
I steel my spine, taking her words to heart. “You’re right. I’m going to be the best damn intern they’veever seen.AndwhenIgraduate,I’ll havemychoiceofjobs.”
“That’s the spirit.” Grier claps me on the shoulder. “Now, how about some shots to calm you down?”
“Grier!” Ishriek. She cackles as she makes her wayinto the kitchen. Changinginto sweats and a T-shirt,Ifollow her.“Therewill benodrinkingtonight.Ineedtobefreshandclear for tomorrow.”
“Relax,girl.You’vetotallygotthis.Youknow moreaboutfootball thananyoneIknow.”
Ifidgetwithmynecklace.It’sanervoushabit.“Butwhatifthere’sabetter candidateoutthere?”
I want this position so bad, I can taste it. Everything I’ve ever wanted is right in front of me. I
grew up surrounded by football. With a dad who was the team doctor for the Tennessee college football team,itwashardnottoloveit.
Andnow thatIhaveachoice,Iwanttoworkwithanyteamthatwill haveme.
ExceptVegas.Never Vegas.BiggestbunchofcheatingassholesI’veever seen.
“Doweneedtogoreview how kickassyouareagain?”
Igrabasodafromthefridgeandcrackitopen.“I’mallowedtobenervous.Thisisonlymyfuture we’retalkingabout.”
Grier ignores me.“YoucrushedtheGRE.YouhavethehighestGPAofanyoneinour program,me included.” She ticks eachitemoff her fingers as she goes. “The fact that youevenhave aninterview withMarkhamand Associates is unheard of, plus youhave the opportunityto jointhemevenbefore thesemester starts.Doyouknow how harditistogetinwiththem?”
Inodmyhead.I’vebeentheenvyofeveryoneinour class.“Butit’sonlyaninterview.”
“ButwithEarl Markham,aninterview isasgoodasgettingthejob.”
Thistime,Ican’thelpthesmilethatspreadsacrossmyface.“Stopgettingmyhopesup.”
“Hopefullyyou’ll gettoworkwiththehotplayers.”
Iswatather hand as she starts takingoutleftover cartons ofChinese food. “I’ll be luckyto work with any players right now. If I get the job, I’ll be on scut duty. Coffee runs for weeks before they evenknow myname.I’ll be‘heyyou’tomostpeoplethere.”
Grier laughs, but I know the minute she thinks what I’ve been thinking. “He doesn’t work with Earl,right?”
Icringe.“No.ThelasttimeIchecked,hewaswithacompanybasedinVegas.”
Grier shakesher head.“ThankGodfor that.Canyouimaginehavingtoseeyour exeveryday?”
“How aboutthatshot?”Anythingtogether tostoptalkingaboutmyex.
Sheclapsher hands.“Finally!Justone.For goodluck!”
“I’ll needall theluckIcanget.”
“SO TELL ME, Peyton, why is it that you want this position?” Tammy, the older woman I’ve been interviewingwith, is toughbutfair. She’s made iteasyto settle into this interview. I’ve beenable to answer all of her questions without turning into a bumbling idiot. Something about being around powerful womenalways puts me at ease. It’s like I cansee myself intheir shoes and want to mirror their everymove.
“Igrew uparoundfootball.I’ve always lovedsports,andit’s the one thingI’ve always wantedto do with my life. Social Media Management is something a lot of teams aren’t great at. Teams like Denver have a great social media footprint, but others like Vegas don’t. I want to learn fromthe bestsoIcanbeanassettowhichever companyIgotoworkfor.”
“And what would you say if we sent you to work with one of our hockey stars?” She gives a playful smile.
“I’vebeenfollowingColorado’steamsinceImovedouthere,soI’dbehappytodoit.Theywere justonthebrinkofgettingtotheplayoffsthispastseason.”
Tammytucks a graystrand of hair behind her ear. “I’ll admit, youknow your stuff. Most women that come in here can tell you the stats of everyone we represent, but not so much the teams. I’m impressed.”
“LikeIsaid,Igrew uparoundsports.Iloveall ofthem.”
“Evengolf?”Tammylaughs.
Ismile.“Evengolf.Justdon’taskmetoplay.”
“No,noneofthat.You’ll likelybeafloater.Earl mighthaveyouworkonsomespecial projectsof hisaswell.We’ll needyoutobeadaptable.”
Her words have my ears perking up. Discussing what I might be doing has to be a good sign. “I canbeadaptable.”
“We don’t believe inhavingyougo oncoffee runs.” Tammysmiles. “Althoughthat might happen onoccasion,Earl makes ita pointtogive his interns a well-roundedexperience.Ifyou’re goingtobe workingatMarkhamandAssociates,hewantsyougettingthereal deal.”
“Thatsoundsgreat.”
“With this being your last year of school, have you thought about what you want to do after you graduate?”
“Yes!” Isaywitha little too muchenthusiasm. “Imean, yes. I’d love to be able to stayinDenver. Maybegetajobhere.Or workwithoneoftheteamsinthecity.”
“I’mglad you’re already thinking about it. I think you’ll do great here, Peyton. We’re excited to haveyoujointheteam.”Tammystands.
“SoIhavethejob?”
She nods, a smile plastered on her face. “You do. We’ll have you start Monday. Some basic paperwork, company policies about no fraternization and kickbacks, things like that. Nothing too grueling.We’ll letyougetthelayofthelandbeforewethrow youoffthedeepend.”
“I’mreadyfor it.”It’shardtocontainmyexcitement.“Thankyou,Tammy.”
Tammyextendsher handandItakeit,probablyshakingitwithalittletoomuchvigor.
Ifollow her throughthecubicles,imaginingmyselfbeingapartofthisteam.It’sonestepcloser to myultimategoal.
“We’ll seeyouMonday,”Tammysays,wavingmeout.
“Ican’twaittogetstarted.”
here’s our pompous, egotistical man-whore,” Knox shouts from the other side of the locker room. What feels like everyset of eyes zeroes inonme as I walkacross the spacious roomto mycubby.EventheMountainLionlogoonthefloor seemstobejudgingme.
“I’msurprisedyouknow thosewords.They’reprettybigfor you,”Ideflect,flippinghimoff.
“I told him to keep his trap shut,” Jackson mumbles beside me as he pulls on his knee brace. “Trustme,beinginthemediafor thatreasonisn’tfun.”
I know Jackson went through some shit last year with his ex. At least this was a problemof my ownmaking.
“How badisit?”Alexasks,pullinghispracticejerseyover hishead.
“Eh. Justneed to keep myhead downand notgetinto anymore trouble. It’ll be fine.” Itryto play itofflikeitisn’tabigdeal.
MaybeifIkeeptellingmyselfthat,I’ll starttobelieveit.
“Colin!Seemeafter practice!”CoachBrooksshoutsfromhisoffice. “Fine,huh?”Jacksonasks.“Yousureaboutthat?”
“Fuck.”
IfCoachwants to talkto me, I’mguessingit’s worse thanIthought. Myphone buzzes fromwhere Isetitdowninmylocker.Seeingit’smydadagain,Iignorethecall.
“Notanother womaninyour littleblackbook?”Loganpipesupfromtheother sideofJackson. “Worse.Mydad.”
“Notpleasedwithseeinghissoninthetabloids?”Knoxasks.
“Moreliketellingmehow I’mscrewingupbothofour livesatthesametime.”
“Damn,hesoundslikeadick,”Logansays.
Inodmyhead.“You’retellingme.Tookmealongtimetorealizethat.”
After each game, my dad would dissect every single thing I did wrong. No matter if I had a touchdown or broke the team’s passing record, I could have done better. It should’ve made me hate thegame,butitonlygavemethedeterminationtobethebestdamnwidereceiver outthere.
Iwantedtodoittospitehim.
ThemoneyIearneachyear isabigfuckyoutohim.Evenonarookiecontract.
“Thinkyoucanmake it throughpractice without landinginthe spotlight?” Knoxclaps me onthe shoulder.
“Idon’tknow.Isyour momoutthere?MaybeIcangohomewithher.”
“Fuckyou.”Knoxflipsmeoff.
“Aww, you don’t want me to be your new stepdad?” I say, shoving him as we head out to the practicefields.
“Don’tthinkIwon’ttackleyoutothefieldthefirstchanceIget.”
“He deserves itatthis point,” Jacksonsays, tuggingonhis helmetand headingoffinthe opposite directionfromus.
“Young!James!Quitthechitchatandgetover here!”Our offensivecoordinator callsusover.
“What’sthegameplanfor today?”Alexasks.
Going over what we’re working on, I shift my focus to running plays. This is where I’m most comfortable.Iknow theseplayslikethebackofmyhand.
Gettinglostinpractice is easy. The feel ofthe grass beneathmycleats, the perfectspiral landing inmyhands all ofthisiseasy.
It’stheother noisethatgetsmeintrouble.
We rundrill after drill. Our coordinator drew up some new plays that we’re practicingtogether. WorkingthemthroughwithAlexis always fun.After gettingdraftedatthe same time,we know where theother will bebeforeweeventhinkit.
Itmakesthesenew playseasier tograsp.
AndbeforeIknow it,practiceisover.
Ignoring everyone in the locker room, I head straight for Coach’s office. Better to go ahead and getthisover with.
IknockoncebeforeI’mbeckonedinside.
“Have a seat, son.” Coachmotions to the chair infrontofhis desk. “I’massumingyouknow why you’reinhere?”
It’dbestupidtoplaydumbatthispoint,soIgivehimastraightanswer.“Ido.”
His stare has me squirming in my seat. Coach is not someone to mess with. He’s a man of few words. Someone youwould do anything to winfor. He’s one of the best coaches I’ve ever had, and thegazehe’sgivingmeisn’tsomethingI’musedto.
“Colin,doyoulikebeingonthisteam?”
Myresponseisquick.“Morethananything.”
“Thenwhywouldyoudosomethingsostupidthatcouldjeopardizeyour positionhere?”
Iclear mythroat,drier thansandpaper.“IguessIdidn’tthink ”
“That’stheproblem.Youdidn’tthink,”Coachcutsmeoff.
Iwipemyhandsonmypants,mypalmssweatingwithnerves.
“Whether you realize it or not, you’re in a position of power. You can use that for good, or you candothingslikeyoudidtheother night.”
I wince, thinking of Coach seeing the articles. I’m sure he did, as did everyone in team management.
“AmIbeingcut?”ThewordsblurtoutofmebeforeIhaveachancetoeventhinkmoreaboutit. “Rightnow?No.”
Iheaveasighofrelief.
“But don’t take that to get complacent about your place onthe team. The GMinformed me you’ll have a meetingthis afternoonwithyour agent. They’ve worked outa planto help yougetbackinthe goodgracesoftheteamandour fans.”
“AndifIdowell atthat?”
“Thenwe shouldn’t have anyother problems.” His tone is final, dismissingme. But he pulls me back.
“Onemorething,Colin.”
“Yeah,Coach?”
“Idon’tthinkIneed to impress uponyouthe importance ofstickingto the plan. One wrongmove and you could be gone. And I really don’t want to have to trade you. You’re the best wide receiver we’veever had,andI’dhatetothinkthiscouldbeadifferencemaker for youstayingor going.”
“Whatever ittakes,Coach.”
HenodsandIleave.
Myskinfeels two sizes too small as Ihead backto mylocker. Knoxlooks like he’s readyto say something, butwhatever he reads onmyface stops him. Strippingoutofmypractice clothes, Igrab a towel andhittheshowers.
Resting my hands on the tile, I let the hot water wash over me. It eases the stinging of muscles after ahardpractice.
The best part about football is leaving everything out there on the field. Whatever I’mfeeling, I putitintopracticeor agame.
God.WhydoIhavetothinkwithmydicksomuch?
It’s beenlike this ever since Igotdrafted. Ididn’twantto have to focus onwhatIlost, so itwas justeasier tolosemyselfinwomenthatdidn’tmeananything.
Maybethisisthewake-upcall Ineeded.Togetmyshittogether andfinallymoveonwithmylife.
Ithappenedfiveyearsago.Ishouldbeover it.Icanputthepastbehindmeandmoveon.
Except moving on still makes my heart squeeze in my chest. At least the damn thing is still in there.AndmaybeI’ll forceittomoveon.
Onceandfor all.
ow’sthefirstdaytreatingyou?”Tammypopsher headover thecubiclewall.
Igiveher ashysmile.“Feelingalittleoverwhelmed.ButI’mexcited.”
I’ve worked hard for this position, and no matter what they throw at me, I’ll give it everything I’vegot.Becausesucceedinghereisasgoodasgoldintheindustry.
“Well,ifyou’reready,Earl wantstoseeyou.HehasaprojectthatIthinkyou’ll enjoy.”
“Absolutely!” Ishootoutofmychair. I’mwaytoo eager, butIdon’tcare. Iwantto do a good job here.
Workingfor anNFLteamhas beenmydreamfor as longas Icanremember. Withone more year ofschool left,it’sfinallywithinreach.It’ssoclose,Icanalmosttasteit.
Ifollow TammytoEarl’sofficeandtakeaseat.EventhoughEarl runstheshow,Tammyistheone who is going to be following my progress throughout the internship. She’s nice, but no-nonsense. It onlyaddstothepressuretodoagoodjob.
“Peyton.Areyoureadyfor your firstbigassignment?”
“Yes.” Iinfuse more confidence inmytone thanI’mfeeling. Earl has a bigpresence. He’s one of the top agents in the sporting world. He represents a list of the who’s who of the sports world. Doesn’tmatter thesport,everyonewantshim.AndIwanttoimpresshim.
“We have a bitofa situationwithone ofmynewer clients. He’s beenaround the league for a few years,butlet’sjustsay,hehasanimageproblem.”Earl steepleshishandsinfrontofhim,almostasif he’sassessingme.
“WhatcanIdotohelp?”Ishiftinmyseat,readytogetstarted.
“We’re going to need to work on a rehabilitation plan for his image. Show the public he’s more thanjustsomeplayboy.”
IdeasstartwhirringthroughmyheadastowhatIcando.
“Thisisacontractyear for him,”Earl continues.“HelovesDenver anddoesn’twanttoleave.”
“Icanunderstandthat,”Itell him.
Colorado has been my home away from home the last few years. Aside from having one of the best grad programs for the concentration I wanted, I love being surrounded by the mountains. It remindsmeofhome.Whenever thingsgottobetoomuch,Icouldheadtothemountainsandall would berightwiththeworld.
“We need to drumup some good press for him. And that’s where youwill come in. Planoutings for himthatwill remindthecitywhytheylovehim.Keephiminline.Thatsortofthing.”
“Icandothat.”
Earl aims a beaming smile in my direction. “I have no doubt. Tammy will be monitoring your progressthroughoutthesemester,butifyouneedanyhelpfromeither ofus,don’thesitatetoask.”
“Youcancountonme.”Isitstraighter.
“Colinshould be inshortly, and we’ll go over everythingwithhimand introduce the two ofyou. But I’d like a preliminaryplanto Tammybythe end of the week. Withthe seasonstarting, time will bemorelimited,soyou’ll needtogetcreative.”
“Colin? As inColinJames?” Mythroatis like sandpaper. The memoryofhis face slams into me. The easysmile thatalways broughtouthis dimples. The wayhis brownhair was always fallinginto hisface.Andhiseyes.Lord,couldIgetlostinthem.
“The one and only. Have youfollowed his career?” Earl glances up atme over a stackofpapers. Idomybesttoschool myexpression.
“HewenttoTennessee,soIfollowedhimthere.Butnotsinceheenteredtheleague.”
“That’sright!How couldIforgetthoseVolunteer connections?Didyoutwoknow eachother?”
Igive Earl mybestfake smile. Because ofcourse myfirstbigassignmentwould be withthe man whobrokemyheartincollege.“Wewereboththereatthesametimeandhadafew classestogether.”
“Thatshould bode well then. I’ll letyougetstarted, thenI’ll bringyouinonce Colinand Ihave a chancetodiscussthisnew plan.”
“He doesn’t know about it?” I can’t hide the trepidation in my tone. If there’s one thing I remember aboutColin, it’s thathe hatedbeingbombarded withanythinghe didn’tknow about.Which sucksfor himbeinginaprofessionwhereyoucanbetradedonawhimfor anyreason.
“That’sfor metoworryabout.Now,gooffandcomeupwithbrilliantplans.”
Morelikecomingupwithaplantogetthroughthesenextfew weeksasfastaspossible.
Because havingto workwiththe guywho walked awayfromme is goingto be the hardest thing I’veever hadtodo.
“If you didn’t sleep with everyone in Colorado, we wouldn’t be having this discussion right now.”
Earl pins me witha fierce look. He became myagentlastsummer after myold one retired. Ilike Earl.Mostdayshe’sfair andwill worktogetmethebestdealsoutthere.Butnottoday.
“Whatall doIhavetodo?”Ileanforward,elbowsonmyknees.Thisdayhasbeennever-ending.
“Cut this playboy shit, Colin. You’re better than this. But until you can prove that to me, the MountainLionsmanagement,andthefans,I’mbringinginsomehelp.”
“Whatkindofhelp?”Asickfeelingsettlesinmygut.
“Someone to keep you on the straight and narrow. I know how much playing for the Mountain Lionsmeanstoyou,soshapeupor they’ll cutyoufaster thanyoucansayfreeagent.”
I scrub a hand downmyface. If I had a pennyfor everytime I’ve heard that today, I could retire now.“It’snotlikeI’mhurtinganybody.”
“I’msurethatwomanwhogavethetell-all woulddisagree.”
Colin “YOU’RE seriouswiththisshit,Earl?”“Fuckingjerseychasers,”Imumble.
If looks could kill, I’d be sixfeet under. “Denver has a reputationaround the league. Theydon’t put up with hotshot players or those that don’t represent their values. You’re walking a fine line, James.”
“Yousoundlikemydad.”
“Doyoulistentohim?”
“No.”Theonlythinghecaresaboutisfootball,andfuckifI’mgoingtolistentoawordhesays.
“Thenlistento me. Because otherwise, I’ll be shoppingyouaround nextseason. Unless youwant toendupinVegas,I’dstartlookinglessplayer andmoreteamplayer.”
Igrimace. The lastthingIwantis to leave Denver. Iwas drafted here whenIcame outofcollege andthisplacehasbecomehome.“ThenwhatdoIneedtodo?”
“Ahh.Heresheisnow.”Earl stands,turninghisattentionawayfromme.
Followinghislead,Istandandturntofacethenewcomer intheroom.
Exceptit’snotanewcomer atall.
No.
It’ssomeoneI’mintimatelyfamiliar with.
Thewomanwhostolemyheartfreshmanyear andnever gaveitback.
“Colin. This is Peyton, our newest intern. Peyton, this is Colin. You might recognize each other fromUT. Youtwo will getto know eachother verywell these nextfew weeks.” Earl claps me onthe shoulder asItrytokeeptheconfusionatbay.
“I’ll leave youtwo to getto know eachother, and thenTammywill be alongto go over the plans wehavefor you.”
“Surething,Earl.”Idon’tlookathim.Mygazeisfixedsolelyonthewomaninfrontofme.
Fuck.She’sevenmoregorgeousthanshewasincollege.Longbrownhair curlingdownher chest. A skirt-and-blouse combo that clings to her gorgeous curves. Deep brown eyes that give nothing away.
That’snew.Iusedtobeabletoreadher likeabook.Butnow?Nothing.
Ishouldn’tbelookingather likethis,butI’minshock.
Thesmackofpapersonthedeskbringsmebacktothepresent.
“I’msureEarl hastoldyouwhywe’ll beworkingtogether.”Her gazeisfixedonthedesk.
“Whatthehell areyoudoinghere,Rocky?”Theoldnicknameslipsout.
Peyton’sfieryeyessnapuptomeetmine.There’sthegirl Iusedtoknow.
“It’s not like I’mstalkingyou, if that’s your concern.” She crosses her arms infront of her chest. “Andyoucancall mePeyton.”
Athousandthoughtsareswimmingthroughmyhead.
The last time I saw Peyton, I was dropping her off at her dorm, telling her I’d see her after our businessmidterm.Ikissedher goodbyeandthatwasit.
Inever saw her again.
“Youdidn’tanswer myquestion.Whatareyoudoinghere?”
Peyton pins me with a focused stare. “Not that it matters to you, but I’m finishing my master’s degreethiscomingyear.Andthisinternshipisthelaststepoftheprocess.”
“Sowhatyou’resayingis,youneedme?”
“God, this is never going to work.” Peyton slaps a hand over her eyes. “Were you always this muchofadickincollege?”
“Hmm,funny.Iseemtorecall youbeingafanofmydickbackincollege.”
Peyton removes her hand. The icy glare she sends my way sends shivers down my spine. “No wonder you’reinthismessinthefirstplace.All youcanthinkaboutnow isyour dick.”
“Whyarewestill talkingaboutmydick?”Iquirkabrow inher direction.
“You’re right. No more dick talk.” Peyton gives me a sickly sweet smile, taking the seat across frommeandfoldingher armsover thepileofpapersonthedeskbetweenus.
“Whatdoyouwanttotalkaboutthen?”ThelastthingIwantistobesittinginaroomwithPeyton, butitwill alertEarl ifIstormoutofhere.I’malreadyinhotwater;nopointinmakingitworse.
“I’ve beenworkingall afternoonon comingup with a planto make the Denver fans fall backin lovewithyou.Withmyhelp,itshouldbeprettystraightforward.”
“So what, you’re like mybabysitter now?” This morning, I was doingmybest to not thinkabout thewomanwhobrokemyheart.Now she’ssittinginfrontofme,incontrol ofmyowndestiny.
“For lackofabetter word,yes.”
“Jesus,”Imumble.
“Don’tthinkI’mexcitedaboutiteither.ButEarl seemstothinkwe’ll workwell together.”
“Does he know aboutour past?” Iwhisper. Earl’s office is small, butgossip tends to runrampant aroundtheseplaces.
“Are youcrazy? Ispentalmostanhour listeningto the no-fraternizationpolicythis morning. Earl wouldlosehismindifheknew,”Peytonhisses.
Her automaticanger towardmesendsmyhacklesrising.
“Atleasthe’dknow whyIamthewaythatIam,”Imutter under mybreath.
When you lose the girl of your dreams, you do whatever it takes to numb the pain. And that’s exactlywhatIdid.
NumbedthepainanywayIcould.
Namely,women.
But apparentlyI wasn’t as quiet as I thought because Peytonslides the folder myway. There’s a flashofsomethingacrossher face,butbeforeIcanpinitdown,it’sgone.
“Tammyhadmecombthroughall your pasttabloidexploits togetahandleonwhatI’dbedealing with. To say it was an enjoyable experience would be an overstatement.” She looks down at her hands,clearlynotwantingtoseetheseimagesagain.
Jesus. Every article ever printed about me is in here. Some are better than others, but none are great.Nowonder I’minthehotseat.
“Whatdidyoucomeupwith?”Iclosethefolder,notneedingtoseeanythingmore.
“A goodwill campaign. If people don’t like you off the field, they won’t cheer for you on it. Denver isn’tVegas.Theycarehow their playersactoffthefield.”
Inod.“Okay.”
“I’vestartedwithafew events.TheMountainLionsWomen’sgroup ”
“Isthatreallyagoodidea?”Icuther off.
“Have you ever been to one of their events? They do a lot of good work for the Denver communityatlarge,sothey’dbeagoodgrouptowinover.”
“Okay.”
She quirks a brow atme before continuing. “There’s also a Labrador retriever rescue thatwill be hostinganadoptionday.They’ll beagreatpartner for you.Ongoingsupportandsuch.”
“Okay.”
Peyton ignores me. “There’ll be a charity auction for dates with players. Not the best event for you,butEarl saysyou’recommitted,sothatonehastostay.”Sheshufflesher stackofpapersaround.
“Okay.”
“Stopsayingokay!”Shegivesafrustratedgroan.
“WhatelsecanIsay?Seemstomelikeifyousayjump,andIdon’tsayhow high,I’mdone.”
“Areyougoingtobelikethisthewholetime?”
“How amI?”
“Disagreeableandcombative.”
“Andhow shouldIbe?Seemslikeyouknow everything.”
“Canyounotbecivil?Itwill beeasier for bothofus.”
“Fine.Justtell mewhenandwhereIneedtobe,andI’ll doit.”
“Thatandfootball.That’sit.”Shepointsafinger atme.
“Gotit.”
“Good.”
“Great.”
The tension in the room is not something I’m used to with this woman. She literally holds my entirefutureinher hands.Onewrongmove,andshecouldgorunningtoEarl.
And to think, Peytonused to be myeverything. We had plans. Iwas goingto playinthe NFL, and shewasgoingtomakeanamefor herselfintheleaguedoingwhatever amazingthingsshecoulddo. Butthensheleft.
Wesomehow failedeachother.
Now,ifIfail her,Ifail theteam.
Andthat’sonethingIcan’taffordtolose.
re you shitting me?” Grier gasps, covering her mouth with her hand. “Colin freakin’James is your petprojectfor thisyear?”
I nod, gulping down the rest of my wine. “How do I manage to land my dreamjob with the one guyontheplanetthatIcan’tstand?”
Grier shakesher head.“Youhavetheworstluck.”
“God,andIhavetohelphimrehabhisimage.Doyouknow whataslutheis?”
“DoIreallywanttoknow?”
Icringe.“No.SomeofthethingsIsaw Icannever unsee.”
“Washelikethisincollege?”Grier holdsthewinebottleouttome,butIshakemyhead.
“NotevenbeforeImethim.IhavenoideawhothisColinis.”
“How areyougoingtohandleseeinghimeveryday?”
“Idon’tevenknow.Inever thoughtI’dseehimagain,andnow I’mgoingtohavetoseehimevery day.Everyday.Doyouknow how manydaysthereareinaweek?”
Grier givesmea duh look.“Honey,you’respiraling.”
“Youwouldbetooifyouhadtoworkwithyour ex!”
“Can you remember any of the good times you had?” Grier asks with an innocent expression on her face.
Ifinger the necklace thatIcouldnever quite bringmyselftogetridof.ColinandIhadnothingbut goodtimes incollege.There was the occasional fight, butwe were hotandheavyfromthe minute we firstgottogether.
“It’shardtoreconcilethepersonhewaswiththepersonheisnow.Idon’tevenrecognizehim.” “Maybethat’ll makeiteasier tokeepthingsprofessional.”
“Ihopeso.ThelastthingIneedishimscrewingupthisopportunityfor me.”
“Canyoupicturehimwithnoclotheson?Isn’tthatwhatpeoplealwayssay?”Grier asks. Iburstoutlaughing.“Ithinkthat’sfor speakinginpublic.”
“Maybehecouldtakealesson.”
“Inkeepinghisdickinhispants?”
Grier nearlychokes onthe sip she just took. “Shit, Peyton. Warna girl next time.” She wipes up thewinethatspilleddownher chin.
“It’shisdickthatgotmeinthismess.”
“Whyarewestill talkingabouthisdick?”
“You’retheonethatbroughtitup.”
“Ibelieveyoudid,”Grier corrects.
Iroll myeyes,pouringmyselfanother glassofwine.“Seriously,Grier.WhatamIgoingtodo?”
Now thepanicstartstosetin.
Everything I’ve ever wanted is within reach. Long before Colin ever entered my life, my dream wastoworkwithanNFLteam.It’ssoclose,Icantasteit.
Andnow,theonemanIwashappytonever seeagainisstandingbetweenmeandthatgoal.
I need to keep my heart locked away tight. If I can make it through this semester, I know I can prettymuchdoanything.
“I’mjustgoingtokeepmynosedownandnotgetsuckedbackintoColin’sbubble.”
“Andmaybedon’tlookathisdick.”
anyoureallynotkeepitinyour pants?”Knoxasks,pumpingtheweightbar.
“Dowehavetotalkaboutthis?”Iwipethesweatfrommybrow.
“Dude.Youwereall over thenewsbecauseyougotablowjobandleftthegirl,”Jacksonpipesup fromwherehe’sdoingsit-ups.“That’sadickmove.”
“I never said it was myfinest moment, youfucker.” I throw mytowel inhis direction. “I just…I don’tknow.Igotcaughtupinmyhead.”
“Could you maybe get caught up somewhere else? Maybe without your dick in someone’s mouth?” Alexis restinghis forearms onthe weightbar thatKnoxabandoned. We spend more time in here,itseems,thananywhereelseinthebuilding.
“Idon’tthinkI’veever heardsomanyguystalkingaboutyour dickbefore.”Loganlaughs.
“Better histhanmine,”Alexstatesmatter-of-factly.
“Fuckyou,guys.Thisisserious.WhathappensifIgetcut?”
Logan’sfacegoespale.“You’reshittingme.”
“Denver won’t actually cut you, will they?” Jackson whispers. Almost as if saying it out loud mightmakeitcometrue.
“Fuckif I know. But I don’t thinkEarl would sayit if it wasn’t a possibility. I’ll be a free agent nextyear.”
“So you put your entire career at risk for a mediocre blowjob.” Alex shakes his head. The disappointmentcomingoffhimispalpable.“You’resupposedtobeacaptain.”
Alex’swordscouldn’tcutdeeper ifhetried. “Fuck.”
Iknow Iscrewedup,buthavingtodeal withPeytonnow ontopofeverythingelse?
“How are you going to fix this?” Jackson asks. “Now that I’mback this season, we have a real shot…”
He doesn’t need to tell any of us what we have a shot at. Football players are a superstitious bunch.
“Earl hasthisgrandplantomakemelovableinDenver fans’eyesagain.”
Knoxsnorts.“Thenyou’rewell andtrulyfucked.”
“Dude,nothelpful,”Jacksonchirps.
“What’sEarl’splan?”Alexasks.
“Acompleterehaul ofmyimage,”Igrumble. “Oh,thisistoogood.”Knoxlaughs.
Iscrubahanddownmyface.“I’mgladmymiseryissoamusingtoyou.”
“Look, Earl wouldn’t steer youwrong.” Alexand Ihave the same agent, so Iknow he sees it the samewayIdo.
“It’s just that Ihave to contend withthis personwho is incharge ofthe planwho might make my lifemiserable.”Idon’tletonwhosheis.
“Ohfuck.DoIevenwanttoknow?”Knoxasks.
“Maybe a little humilitywould do yousome good.” Alexeyes Knox. The two ofthemexchange a skeptical look.
“Hey,Icanbeahumbleperson,youfuckers.”
“And you’re actually going to try? I mean, make this plan work so you don’t get cut?” Jackson asks,histoneweary.“God,Ifeel sorryfor thisperson.”
“I’msureshe’ll dojustfine.”
“OhGod,it’sawoman?Now Ireallyfeel sorryfor her,”Jacksonjests.
“Notall ofus have onlyever dated two people.” Iflip himthe bird. “Besides, Icankeep itinmy pantsifitmeanstheteamisbetter for it.”
“Shouldwemakeabetonthis?Ifeel likethiswouldbeeasymoney,”Knoxaskstheother guys.
“Hey!”Itrytodefendmyself.“Ifthisever happenstoyou,justknow I’ll berootingagainstyou.”
“Noway.Youlikeall ofustoomuch,”Logansayswithahopeful lookinhiseyes.
“You’reall abunchofassholes.”Igobacktomyweights.
“But a lovable bunch of assholes.” Logan gives me a smile that I’m sure he’s used on a jersey chaser or two.
“Still assholes.”
“Comingfromthisasshole,canyouatleastkeepyour shittogether tomakeitthroughtheseason?” IgiveAlexmysmilethatIknow charms everyone.“WhenhaveIever nothadmyshittogether for theseason?”
Alexrollshiseyes.“ItakebackwhatIsaid.You’refucked,man.Well andtrulyfucked.”
“ANOTHER ROUND? LAST CALL. ”
Sometime in the last hour, the bar emptied around me. After everything that went down today, I neededtogetoutofmyhead.DidImeantoignoreeverythingEarl toldme not todo?
No.
ButIwas goingstir-crazyinmyhouse.Itfeltlike the walls were closinginonme,andIneededa breather.
“Another beer,thanks.”Itipmyglassinthebartender’sdirection.
The thing I like about this place? They don’t ask a lot of questions. I can sit here in my own misery.I’venever beenonetomope,butafter anasschewingfromEarl andtheteam?
Yeah,Iwanttomope.
A beer is set in front of me, and I drink down the icy liquid. It does a lot to settle my frayed nerves.
ThankGodfor thissmall hole-in-the-wall near myhousewhereIcangetsomepeaceandquiet.
Well,mostlyquiet.Until afamiliar soundcomesfrombehindme.
“What part of stay home did you not understand?” The anger dripping from her words has me
spinningonmybarstool.
I don’t think I’ve ever seen Peyton so angry. Or more beautiful. In a simple white T-shirt and leggings, no makeup, and her hair in a complicated-looking bun, she reminds me of the girl from college.
Whichpissesmeoffevenmore.
“Whatthefuckareyoudoinghere?”Iturnbacktomybeer,draggingafinger downtheicyglass. “Earl calledme.It’snow myjobtokeepyouinline.”
“How excitingfor you.”Myvoiceisflat.
“Yes.Justhow IwantedtobespendingaThursdayevening.Comingtosomebar todragyouback home.”
“Careful.Peoplemightthinkyoulikeme.”
Asardonic laughbubbles outofher. “Ohyes. Letme throw myselfatyoulike everyother woman inDenver.How’dyouknow Icouldn’tresistyou?”
Thesarcasminher tonecutsdeep.
“Fuckthis.Ihadtogetoutofmyhouse.Noonesaidyouneededtocomegetme.”
Peyton holds up a finger as she opens her phone. Swiping, she shows me a Twitter notification fromanhour ago.
MtnLionsFan87: Colin James looks to be spending the evening alone at a local watering hole. Act fast ladies!
A PICTURE ofmesittingaloneatthebar isunder thetweet. Fuck.Me.
“It’snotlikeIaskedfor someonetotakethatpicture.”
Peyton shakes her head. “It doesn’t matter. You’re a sports star. You’re available for public consumptionwhether youwanttobeor not.”
“YouthinkIdon’tknow that?”Igrumble,downingtherestofmybeer inoneswallow.
Peytoncrossesher arms,keepingher hardeyesonme.“ThenwhyamIhereatmidnight?”
I throw a few twenties on the bar to cover my tab and stalk out the back entrance I came in. “I don’tneedthisshit.”
Huffy steps follow me out the door into the empty alley. “And you think I do?” Peyton shouts behindme.Her voiceechoesaroundthespace.
Before Icanmake itthree steps to mycar, Peytongrabs myarmand spins me around to face her. Thesafetylightsilluminateher features.
Iusedtohaveeveryoneofthemmemorized.
Thesoftwispsofhair thatframeher face.
Eyelashesthatkissthetopsofher cheeks.
Thewayher toplipjutsoutover her bottomlip.
Ishakemyhead,tryingtoignorethewayher fingersfeel astheydigintomybicep.
“Colin.Thisismydreamjob.DoyouthinkIwanttobebabysittingyou?”
“I’m so sorry that I’m making this difficult for you.” I roll my eyes, pulling my arm out of her
reach.Idon’tneedher touchfoggingupmybrain.
“Icouldbedoingamillionother things,butinsteadIhavetokeepyouinline.”
“Guess I’ll be makingyouearnitthen.” There’s no roomto breathe inthis tightspace. No matter whereIturn,Icansmell thefaintjasmineofPeyton’sperfume.
I’dknow thatsmell anywhere.BecauseIusedtogetitfor her all thetime.
Ihateall thesememoriesslammingintome.It’sthelastthingIneedrightnow.
“Damnit,Colin!Can’tyoumakethiseasyonme?”shescreamsinfrustration.
“Easyonyou?That’srich,”Iscoff.
“Doyouhave anyidea whatit’s like? Havingtocombthrougheveryarticle writtenaboutyouand anyjerseychaser you’ve beenwith?” I cansee the hurt inher eyes. But the judgment inher tone has melashingout.
“Fuck,Peyton.Youdon’tgettojudgemefor decisionsImadewhenyouleft.”
Peyton rears back. “When I left? Fuck you, Colin! You were drafted and couldn’t be bothered withyour collegesweetheartanymore.”
This is the lastthingwe need to be doinginthis alley. Takingoutfive years’worthoffrustrations oneachother.
Butthat’sexactlywhatthisis.
Frustration.Anger.Heartache.
She leftwithoutlookingback, and itwas the hardestfuckingthingI’ve had to deal withinmylife gettingover thewomanIthoughtIwasgoingtospendmylifewith.
ThankGodIwasdraftedandcametoDenver.Itwasmyonesavinggrace.
Itakeastepcloser toher.“Thenifit’ssohard,whydon’tyourequestanew assignment?”
We’realmostchesttochest.Anger iswaftingoffbothofus.
“And tell Earl, thanks for the opportunity, butIcan’tworkwithmyex? You’d love that, wouldn’t you?”
“Ifitmeansnomorebackalleymeetandgreets,thenyes.”
Peytontipsher chinuptoglareatme.Idon’tknow how wegotsoclosetogether.
“Toobad.I’mnotgoingtoletyouscaremeaway.”
“AndhereIthoughtitdidn’ttakemuchtosendyourunning.”
“Screw you.”Peytonshovesmeaway,butIcatchher handonmychest.
The tensionbetweenthe two ofus is at a breakingpoint. Peytonmakes no move to pull her hand awayfromme.Our eyesaredeadlocked.
I’mnot sure who snaps first, but the next thingI know, our lips are crashingtogether. Bothof us arefightingfor control asour mouthsmeetfor thefirsttimeinyears.
It’snew andfamiliar all atthesametime.
I tug her bottom lip between my teeth. The soft gasp that escapes has my dick hardening in my pantsbeforeIattackher mouthagain.
Fuck. I forgot how good she was at kissing. Her hands find myhair, tuggingme just the wayshe likes.
I back her up against the brick wall, deepening the kiss. Needing to take more. I shouldn’t want this.Ishouldn’tevenbedoingthis,butfuckme.
I’mhelpless.
This woman always drove me crazy with need. Even now, with so many twisted-up feelings towardher,Ifall ather feet.
My lips drift down her jaw, nipping and sucking. All I’mthinking about is taking her home with
mewhenI’mshovedbackward.
Peyton’slipsareswollenandher eyesarehazywithlust. Fuck.
Fuck.
We shouldn’thave done that.Now thatthe lustis clearing,anger fills inthe void.Ishouldn’twant her.Notwheneverythingisatstake.
“Thatcan’thappenagain,”Peytonwhispers.
“Itwasamistake,”Iagree.
“Good.ThenI’ll seeyoutomorrow?”
“Iguessso.”
IwatchPeytonassheretreatstoher car.Andall Icanthinkaboutisthatkiss. Fuck.
Thisisgoingtobethehardestfew weeksofmylife.
o you remember everything we discussed?” Peyton is looking at something in her hand, not payingthe slightest bit of attentionto me. Instead of havingme come into the office to discuss tonight’sevent,sheemailedmethedetails.
Withspecificthingsnottodo.
“Relax.”Irestahandonher shoulder outofinstinct.“I’vegotthis.”
She shrugs me off, turningto lookat me. “Everyone seems to thinkthat this is a good idea you beinghere at this event. But I’mstill concerned. So I’mgoingto askagain…do youremember what wediscussed?”
This time, Peyton’s brows are furrowed in contempt. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her like this. Well,atleasttowardme.
“Keep conversation light. Don’t say anything about the article, and sign autographs and take selfieswhenasked.”
Peytonblowsoutabreath,mumblingsomethingIcan’tquitehear.
“Sorry,Rocky,didn’tcatchthat.”
“Please don’t make this evening any more difficult than it has to be. Those women in there are some ofthe biggest supporters ofthe team, and Iwant this to go well. Be warmand gracious but not overlycocky.”
“Igotthis,Peyton.You’ll see.”
Iinjectmore confidence into mywords thanI’mactuallyfeeling. Havingeverysingle one ofyour pastindiscretions outthere for everyone to know isn’tthe bestfeelinginthe world. Especiallywhen it’syour expointingthemout.
As I push open the doors into the meeting rooms, all eyes shift to me. It’s hard not to feel their judgmental stares as Itake inthe MountainLions Women’s Group before me. I’ve done a few oftheir eventsinpreviousseasons,butit’sbeenawhile.
“Colin.How nicetoseeyou.”Maryanne,thedirector oftheprogram,greetsme.
“Ifitisn’tone ofmyfavorite ladies.” Itake her extended hand, relaxingsomewhat. She’s always beenoneofmyfavorites.
“Ibetyousaythattoeveryone.”
Iwinkather.“Onlywhenit’strue.”
She swats atme witha perfectlymanicured hand. “We have some new members thatI’d like you tomeet.”
“Leadtheway.”
Icanfeel Peyton’s presence behind me. Icouldn’tignore her ifItried. Tensionis driftingoffher inwaves. Iknew workingtogether would be rough, butshe’s a rubber band stretched to her breaking point.Sotight,readytosnap.
“Ladies,Iwouldliketointroduceyoutoour star widereceiver,ColinJames.”
“Well, aren’t you much cuter in person.” Awoman with blonde hair, teased to within an inch of her life,looksmeupanddown.I’venever feltsoondisplaybefore.
“How’severyonedoingtonight?Isthisyour firsttimehere?”Iask,tryingtobecordial.
“Larais new.”Maryannepoints tothewomanwhospokeearlier.“Shewants tobemoreinvolved inthecommunityeventstheMountainLionshosteveryyear.”
“Thatsoundsgreat.We’vegotsomegoodonescomingupthisyear.”
It’s oneofthereasons IloveDenver.Thecommunityinvolvementis somethingyoudon’tseewith a lotofteams. Ilove thatthe women’s group hosts events and raises moneyfor the differentcharities theMountainLionssupport.
“Ifyoudon’tmind,” Lara links her armthroughmine “I’d like to talkto youabouta few ideas Ihave.”
The sickly sweet tone of her voice puts me on edge. I have half a mind to decline, but Peyton’s wordsfromearlier echoinmyhead. Be warm and gracious.
“HaveyoubeenaMountainLionsfanfor alongtime?”It’smygo-toquestioninthesesituations.
“My ex-husbandwasafan.It’show Igotintothegame,”Laraanswers.
God, I wishalcohol was served at these events. I don’t miss the emphasis onher ex. This is the lastthingIneedrightnow.
“Hopefullywe’ll giveyousomethingtocheer for thisseason.”
Lara lets outa shrill laugh, piercingmyeardrums. “Listento you. So modest. Ofcourse it’s going to be a great season. With these arms,” she proceeds to squeeze my biceps “you’ll be catching touchdownsleftandright.”
“Alexis a great quarterback.” I take a step back, tryingto put some distance betweenthe two of us.“Oneofthebest.”
“Whydidn’thecometonight?”She’slookingaround,hopinghemightmaterializeoutofthinair. “Disappointedit’sjustme?”
Thispullsher gazedownmybody.Fuck.BeingcharmingisareflexIwishIcouldturnoff.
“Sweetheart, I’m anything but disappointed.” Lara looks around and then takes a step closer, shovinga giant set of tits inmyface. No doubt bought byher ex. “Maybe youcould take me backto your placetonight?Icouldseeifall thosearticlesaboutyouaretrue.”
“I’msorry.WouldyoumindifIsteal Colinawayfor a minute?” Peytonappears atmyarm.Thank fuck.
“Ohsure thing. I was just gettingto know himbetter.” Lara runs a red-tipped nail downmyarm. “Findmebeforeyougo.Myoffer still stands.”Shewinksatme.
Peyton’s grip onmyarmis like a vise. It’s the onlythingthatprevents me fromfleeinglike a dog withitstail betweenitslegs.
“You need to stop flirting,” Peyton whispers through clenched teeth, pulling me into a corner of theroomawayfromtheother guests.
“Notsurehow muchofthatyoucaught,butthatwasdefinitelynotmeflirtingwithher.”
“Suresoundedlikeittome.”Peytoncrossesher arms.
Iknow exactlyhow Ineedtobe actingtonight,butrightnow? Iwanttogotoe-to-toe withPeyton.
I’msickofthisice-queensideofherswhenitwasn’tmeinthewronghere.
“I can’t exactly be a dickto these people. Sometimes a little harmless flirtingis okay.” I take in her defensiveposture.“Why?IsitbotheringyouthatI’mnotflirtingwithyou?”
Her laughissardonic.“Ohplease.LikeI’dbejealousofher.”
Mylips quirkup ever so slightly. Whether Peytonknows itor not, she’s showingher cards. From the moment I met her here tonight, her walls have beenup. It’s like we never evenmet at the bar. “I never saidjealous.”
Idon’tmissthewideningofher eyesor thepinkcoloringher cheeks.Busted.
“Did youwant to be the one offeringto take me home?” I shouldn’t be throwingthat inher face, butI’mover tonight.
“Youcannot seriouslybe goinghome withthat woman!” Peytonpokes a finger inmychest. “Do youknow how badthatwill look?”
“Aboutasbadasleavingwithyou?”
“Damn it, Colin!” She shoves me back this time. “Why are you being like this? Can you not see how your actionshaveconsequences?”
“I’m getting really tired of people pointing out how terrible I am.” I crowd Peyton against the wall,doinglittletohidetheanger thatisnow fillingme.
“Ididn’tsayyouwereterrible.”
Iroll myeyes.“Technicality,Rocky.”
“Don’tcall methat.”Thefireinher eyesmatchesmine.Her browneyesareangry.
God. It reminds me of the first time we had sex while fighting. The push and pull. It’s the same fierygaze thatshe’s aimingmywaynow. Itmakes me wantto dragher into a roomand feel her tight heataroundme.
It’salmostenoughtodistractmefromher words.
Almost.
“Then don’t tell me I’ma terrible person,” I growl. I crowd in closer, causing Peyton to tip her chinup.
“Ididn’tsayyouwere a terrible person.” Her hand drifts up mychest. No doubt she canfeel the rapidbeatofmyheart.“Your actionsare.Haveyoustoppedtothinkbeyondyour dick?”
“Andyet,itseemsyoushouldbethankingmydick.”
Peytonhuffs outa laugh. Her breathis hotagainstmyskin. “Canwe stop talkingaboutyour dick? God,thenumber oftimesI’vehadtodiscussit!”
“Youbroughthimup.”
“Only because it got us into this mess!” Peyton hisses. “If you didn’t feel the need to sleep with everywomanyoucrossedpathswith,Iwouldn’tbehererightnow!”
An emotion that looks an awful lot like sadness crosses her eyes. It’s one of the things I always lovedaboutPeyton.Icouldreadher likeabook.
“Isthatwhyyouhatemesomuch?Becauseit’snotyouI’msleepingwith?”
“It’dbeeasier ifIdid.”
Her confessionhitsmesquareinthegut.
“Colin.Miss…”Maryannewalksover tous.
“Thompson.” Peytondoesn’ttake her eyes offme. She’s breathingfire. Iwouldn’tbe surprised if steam came out of her ears. I take two steps back, putting some much-needed distance between the twoofus.
“You’re starting to draw some unwanted attention. Might we continue this conversation another time?”
“I’mso sorry, Maryanne. Please forgive me.” Peytonruns a hand downher dress. The switchis flipped,andPeytonisbackinprofessional mode.
I’mnotasquick.Emotionsarestill warringinmychest.
Lust.Anger.
Wesaidthatonekisswasamistake,butrightnow,Iwantarepeatofit.ButIcan’tletithappen.
I won’t let it happen
Shakingthe fogfrommyhead, I mingle withthe women, beingperfectlycharmingand keepinga safedistancefromLara.
AndPeyton.
Becauseshe’sthemostdangerouswomanofall here.
ow are things going with Colin?” Grier asks, knocking back the shot she ordered. “We’re allowedtosayhisnamenow,right?Now thatyou’reworkingwithhim?”
Itakemyshot,enjoyinganightouttogether.“Yes.Youcansayhisname.Thingsaregoing.”
“Thatsoundsjuicy.”Sherubsher handstogether,obviouslywantingmoredetail.
Isuckonthe lime,bitingbackthe taste oftequila.“Everythinghas beensohotandcold.Ihave no ideawhereIstandwithhim.Iwanttokeepthingsprofessional,buthekeepslookingatme.”
“Heavenforbid,helookedatyou!”Grier overexaggeratesagasp.“How darehe!”
“Shutup!”Ilaugh.“Youknow whatImean.”
“Loadedandfilledwithmeaning?”
“Yes!Iwanttokeepthingsprofessional,buthe’smakingithard.”
“Ibetyou’remakinghimhard.”Grier wagglesher eyebrowsatme. Ichuckmylimewedgeather.“Ican’ttakeyouanywhere!”
“Yousetitupfor me.How couldIleaveitdangling?”Shelaughs. “Maybeyoujustneedtogetlaid.”
“Know anyhotfootball players?”
Hotjealousycuts throughme ina flash. There is no wayGrier would ever go after Colin, butjust thethoughtofithasmewantingtoputupafightfor myguy.
Excepthe’snotmyguy.Notanymore.
“Calmdown,girl.Ididn’tmeanColin.”
“See?ThisiswhatI’mtalkingabout!”Islapmyhandsover myeyes.“Iwanthim,butIcan’twant him.Whyisbeinganadultsodifficult?”
“I think you’re making it harder on yourself.” Grier signals to the bartender for another round, addingmargaritastothemix.
“IcouldlosemyjobifIstartanythingwithColin.Ican’tlosethisopportunity.”
“Easy. Don’tstartanythingthen.” Grier takes one ofthe drinks set infrontofher and passes itto me.“Why?Isanythingstarting?DidImisssomething?”
Heatfloodsmycheeks.Grier’seyesgowidetheminuteshenotices.
“Spill,girl.”
“Wekissed.”
“Youkissed?”sheshrieks,lettingthewholebar aroundusknow whathappened.
“OhmyGod.Couldyoubeanylouder?”
“I’msorry.” She holds up a hand, interruptingherself. “Youkissed the manwho broke your heart
incollege.How elseamIsupposedtoreact?”
“Itwasaone-timething.Itcan’thappenagain.”
“Butyouwantitto.”Grier dragsafinger throughthesaltontherimofher margarita.
“Yes.No.Idon’tknow.God,themanisinfuriating.”
“Sobangitoutandbedone.”Shewipesher handslikethat’stheendoftheproblem.
“Thankyoufor puttingthatintomybrain.”
“Youtwowouldmakesuchprettybabies.”
I groan at her words. While Grier knows about a lot of things that happened between Colin and meduringschool,shedoesn’tknow this.Itwasn’tsomethingIwantedtotell.
“You really aren’t helping. Why amI friends with you?” I laugh, bringing my thoughts back to a safer place.
“Your lifewouldbesoboringwithoutme.”
“I’d take that quiet existence right about now. No Colin to worry about or a job to stress about getting.”
Colin and I are practically two strangers now, trying to navigate the minefield we created between us. Because that’s exactly what it is. The smallest wrong step could have far-reaching consequencesfor bothofus.
Colin could get traded. Any future career I want in sports could be cut off at the knees before I evenhaveachancetotry.
“EarthtoPeyton.”Grier snapsher fingersinfrontofme.
“Sorry.”Ishakemyhead,tryingtodislodgethecobwebsthathavetakenover.
“Damn.You’rereallytornupaboutthis.”
Irestmyhand inmychinonthe bar. “Maybe Ijustneed to do some more shots withyouand it’ll makeeverythingbetter.”
Her laughter eases the tight feelinginmychest. “I don’t know if shots will make youfeel better. Butit’ll definitelymakeyouforget.”
“Let’s notgo crazy.” Iliftmyglass up to hers, clinkingitina cheers before downingthe icy-cold liquid.
“You can push through this for a few more months. Just think of the end goal. Ajob working for oneofthebestteamsintheNFL.Or withEarl’scompany.”
“God.It’sall I’veever wanted.”
“Andyou’dbestupidtogiveitupfor someguy,”Grier states.
Istraightenmyshoulders.“You’reright.Colindidn’tthinktwiceaboutgivingmeupincollege,so whyshouldIworryabouthim?”
Grier holdsher handupfor ahighfive,whichIanswer withenthusiasm.“Damnstraight,girl.Any manwhoditchesyouisn’tworththepain.”
“I’mincredible.Anyguywouldbeluckytohaveme.”
“Andme!”Grier chirps.“We’refuckingcatches.”
“Weare.Weshouldonlybelookingforward,notbackward.”
“You’re going to crush this internship, get a fantastic job, and have your pick of any guy out there.”
I know Colin shouldn’t be the one popping into my head, but he does. And it takes everything I havetopushdownthatfeelingofwantinghim.BecausethisisthekindofenergyIneed.
Focusingonmyinternship,graduating,andgettingthedreamjob.
The dreamguyhas come and gone for me. Myonlyfocus these lastfew years has beenongetting
what I’ve always wanted. Sure, a few guys have been in the picture along the way, but no one who mademewanttotakemyeyesofftheprize.
Colin’sreentryintomylifeshouldn’tchangethat.It can’t changethat.
“You’reright.Thesenextfew monthsaregoingtobeincredible.Icanfeel it.”
Grier beamsatme.“Andjustincaseyouneedthereminder,don’tsleepwithColin.”
Easier saidthandone.
o I really have to do this?” I adjust the cuffs of my shirt for what feels like the eighth time tonight.
“Thequestionyoushouldbeaskingiswhyyoudraggedall ofusintothismess,”Knoxgrowls.
“Hey!”Ithrow myhandsupindefense.“Itseemedlikeagoodideaatthetime.”
“Right. I seemto recall you saying it might be a good way to ‘meet hot chicks.’” Knox quirks a brow inmydirection,daringmetoarguewithhim.
“That…isentirelytrue.Fuck.”Scrubbingahanddownmyface,Iwill timetomovefaster.
“Youjust need a drink. This is goingto be awesome!” Loganhands me a glass ofbourbon, and I knockitbackinoneswallow.
“Youknow you’re notallowedtosleepwithyour date for the evening,right?” Alexpins himwith afiercestare.“Thisistoraisemoneyfor thenew cancer wingatthechildren’shospital.”
“Relax.Heknows,”Knoxchimesin.
“Yeah, sure thing.” Logan’s face is a dead giveaway. He’s hoping to nail whoever wins him tonight.
“I’msurprised charitydate auctions are still a thing.” Ihold myglass outtoward Jackson, having himtopmeoff.
“Apparentlytheteam’ssocial mediacoordinator knowssomeoneatthehospital.Andbecauseyou can’t keep your dickinyour pants,” Knoxglares at me “youcan’t get anybad press bycanceling onachildren’shospital.Soyes,youreallydohavetodothis,anditisyour fault.”
“How’d you get roped into this, Fields?” I nod toward Jackson. Ever since he got married, we barelyseehim.
“AnightoutwithTenleybenefitinga good cause? She was all aboutit.” He gets thatdopeysmile thatonlyshecanputonhisface.
“Are you guys ready?” Peyton pops her head into the waiting area backstage. While she wasn’t crazyabout myparticipatinginthis, Knoxwas right that I reallycouldn’t cancel mycommitment, so sheinsistedonbecominginvolvedintheauctiontokeepmeoutoftrouble.
“Let’sgetthisover with.”AlexsoundsaboutasexcitedasIdotobeheretonight.
“You guys will do great. A few of the other guys have already gone for the big bucks. You’re doingsomethinggreathere.Justremember tosmile.”
Peytonaimsthoselastwordsatme.
“What?Peopleloveme!”
The stare she gives me could melt glass. “Yes, and mypresence here is because the people love