Page 38 of Risky Move

“I don’t think the date’s confirmed,” Andrew countered.

“I’m sure I’m working, don’t worry. Told you, I don’t think it’s a good idea to mingle with the players outside the arena.”

Andrew slapped his shoulder as he opened the door. “Just one drink to celebrate the win, bro. Don’t worry about the team—they probably won’t even notice.” He led the way to the private room at the back of the bar. “You can hang out with the Martins while I complete my assistant captain duties. Cassie’s here, too.”

Tom shrugged, the hesitation disappearing when he spotted the girl with light brown hair with the Suns’ blue highlights.Maybe not such a bad idea.“Go take care of your responsibilities. I’ll grab a beer and hang out in friendly territory.”

He picked up a couple bottles of beer at the bar and offered one to Dave when he reached their table. “Mind if I join you?”

“Of course not. Good to see you, doc.”

“Lauren, Cassie, can I get you anything?”

Cassie patted the chair beside her. “I’m good.”

“Lauren?”

She pointed at the second margarita before her. “I’m more than okay. Sit down and relax.”

“I didn’t know you went to the post-game celebrations,” Cassie commented as he pulled his chair beside hers.

“I don’t. I grabbed a ride with Andrew, and he said he needs to make an appearance.” He rolled his eyes as Cassie laughed.

“So, he dragged you in here?”

“Pretty much.”

“Can’t shirk those Assistant Captain duties,” Dave joked. “You won’t see me wearing an A on my uniform.”

“So, he says.” Tom glanced around the area, focusing a moment on Chance Gagné. “Example. I come in here and see a player several weeks post-concussion tossing back beers. Do I find a subtle way to remind him he shouldn’t be drinking, or do I pretend I didn’t notice?”

“Okay, why don’t you and Cassie take those seats across from us?” Dave suggested. “Then you won’t see anything you shouldn’t. Problem solved.”

Tom shook his head as he pushed his beer across the table and helped Cassie stand. “Out of sight, out of mind. Whatever.”

“You really don’t want to be here?” Cassie spoke quietly as they walked around to the other side of the group of tables.

“The present company makes that a difficult question to answer,” Tom said with a smile. “But, overall, no, I don’t believe in socializing with players I might have to remove from a game.”

“But what about Dave, Steve, John…”

“We’ve been friends long enough, and they get the importance of erring on the side of caution if there’s a chance of concussion. Most of the others, I don’t normally socialize with—and I don’t want to muddy the waters.”

“Like don’t socialize with people you supervise in any job. I get that.”

Cassie loved the way his hand rested against her back.He must know how he affects me…there goes my heart skipping a beat again. What if I just turn around, step into his space, then just show him what he does to me?

She saw his lips hint at a smile as Tom pulled back the chair for her.Did he sense what I want to do…a neurologist mind reader?Cassie saw Lauren watching them with a pensive expression as they sat at the table.

* * *

When Cam Camden called the following day, Cassie tried to mask her surprise. “Cam? What’s up?”

“Just wanted to tell you I enjoyed seeing you last night. I honestly don’t know why I haven’t been in touch before.” Cam’s tone projected sincerity.

“Busy schedule,” Cassie commented. “No problem.”

“That’s not an excuse. But I’d like to change that—Amelie and I are hosting a small get-together tonight. Casual. Mostly younger guys on the team and friends.”

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