Page 36 of Risky Move

Tom laughed as he met Cassie’s eyes. “Top off your glass?”

“I’m good.” She stood and gestured for Tom to stop clearing the table. “I’ll get this. Our chef does not clean up. Why don’t you all relax by the pool? It won’t take a minute.” She shook her head as others offered to help. “Seriously, I’ve got this.”

Amelie grabbed the wine bottles and followed everyone to the pool deck. Lauren hung back, waiting until they were alone to speak. “Do I sense a little irritation with your guest?”

Cassie shrugged. “She enjoys being the center of attraction.”

“Tom didn’t seem too impressed by her escapades,” Lauren ventured cautiously as she rinsed the plates.

“He looked like he was enjoying himself, especially when she batted her lashes at him. Don’t blame her for flirting. Tom’s great, but she’ll be disappointed to know he has a girlfriend.”

Lauren looked at her in surprise. “Seriously? Who? When did this happen?”

“You know—Katie. Haven’t they had a thing for a long time?”

“Eh…Katie took a job in Minnesota not too long ago. Far as I know, they never quite made it past the friends’ stage.” Lauren eyed Cassie speculatively. “Do I detect some interest in the resident physician?”

“Just friends,” Cassie turned toward the sink, hoping that Lauren didn’t see her face flush.No Katie? So, no more guilt that I’m lusting after a guy who’s involved with someone? Hallelujah! Not that it changes anything.

“Remember, Marty and I started as friends.” Lauren prodded.

“Lauren, stop! Seriously? Why even put that thought out there?”

Lauren hugged her and kissed her cheek. “Your secret’s safe with me.”

20

Life decisions stayed on the back burner as the days flashed by. Cassie participated in the twins’ swimming lessons, and she sometimes teamed up with Tom to give Caryn opportunities to go out with her friends. She enjoyed those days especially, though she was unsure if Tom looked at her like a younger sister—or maybe, just maybe, thought about her as more than a friend? She definitely felt chemistry brewing between them, but he had yet to do anything more than flirt with her. Cassie considered making the next move but rejected that notion when she realized how uncomfortable things could get if she’d misread the situation.

Lauren and Dave invited her to join a post-game celebration at The Center Ice Lounge. Cassie hadn’t gone there since that evening with Amelie, and Caryn, and Lauren insisted she needed a fun night out.

“So, we’re celebrating your two goals, Mr. Martin?” she teased as they entered the sports bar.

“Nope, our fifth win in a row.” Dave’s grin filled Cassie with happiness. He’d become the big brother she’d always wanted, and she loved him for never giving up on Lauren.

“Don’t I need an ID?” she asked as they walked toward the bar section at the back of the restaurant.

“Are you planning to drink?”

“Maybe some water.”

“You’re fine,” Lauren said with a laugh. “Relax—I’ll share my drink with you.”

Many of the team wives and girlfriends had already arrived, and a wide selection of finger food, appetizers, and chips awaited them. Cassie waved when she saw Amelie across the room, chatting with Chance Gagné.So, she really knows him. Very well, if the body language is any sign. She smiled when Amelie met her eyes and discretely flashed a thumbs up.Dave held chairs for Lauren and her, then went to the bar to order drinks.

“Your friend likes to play with fire.” Lauren leaned closer to Cassie and nodded at Gagné.

“Did you say anything to Cam?”

“He didn’t seem concerned. Reminded me Amelie attended the university in Paris and can take care of herself.”

Cassie sniffed. “Maybe she set him straight the last time he intervened. Remember when she came back here after I’d taken her home the night Chance took the concussion.”

“Yep. Two peas in a pod.” Lauren looked up as Dave placed a frozen margarita in front of her and set a glass and a bottle of Perrier before Cassie.

“Sorry, kiddo,” he said. “I’d be a hypocrite if I got a margarita for you after keeping the young players on a short leash.”

“Not a problem. Thanks for letting me tag along.”

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