Page 74 of Risky Move

“Have you made plans for New Year’s Eve? Andrew and I aren’t going out—It’ll be a treat having a quiet night at home. So, if you and Tom want to go somewhere…” Caryn’s voice trailed off with a speculative smile.

“He said he’s made plans—secret, of course!” Cassie released a sigh. “I’m glad he’s not working those two days…unless he gets called in.”

“Don’t even put that thought out there, Cassie! Your first New Year’s Eve in Tampa will be perfect. End of discussion.” Caryn placed the folded clothes in the laundry basket. “I predict a very romantic New Year’s celebration.”

“Do you know something I don’t?”

“Just woman’s intuition,” Caryn said with a smile.

Caryn decided at the last minute to skip the game between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Daniel’s and Jenna’s appetite and energy had been unusually low all day. After checking with their pediatrician, Caryn told Cassie that they could be showing the first signs of a cold.

“They know I’m a worrier,” she said with a laugh. “As long as they don’t run a fever and stay hydrated, I should just monitor them. Drew suggested I stay home…he knows I wouldn’t leave them anyway… So why not go to the game?”

Cassie hesitated. “I worry about Danny and Jenna, too. Don’t you want company?”

“I’d rather you go to the game and meet up with this special doctor you’ve barely seen these past few days.”

“I don’t even know if he’s on call tonight.”

“One way to find out.”

* * *

They left the arena hand-in-hand following the game. “In the mood for a late dinner?” Tom asked as he beeped the door locks.

“As long as I’m with you, I’m in the mood for anything.”

Tom turned her and pressed her back against the car. “Yeah?” His mouth met hers with a kiss that left no doubt that he shared her feelings. Cassie roped her arms around his neck and pressed against his solid chest.

“We could get takeout,” she suggested with an enticing smile.

Tom looked at her thoughtfully. “Maybe Ishouldcheck in on my nephew and niece.” He bit back a grin when her expression changed.

“You should.”

“And I will…but first we’ll have a quiet dinner at our Bistro on the Bay. Then after I check the twins, we can enjoy the dessert in the apartment.” He watched her eyes brighten and couldn’t resist another kiss. “Let’s get out of here before the guys try to drag us to Center Ice.” He punctuated his words with light kisses across her cheek. Cassie resisted releasing him when he opened the passenger door.Maybe his kisses have something to do with that…just don’t stop...

Tom chuckled when he pulled back. “You don’t play fair.”

“Speak for yourself, Tommy. I can’t resist your kisses.” She placed a chaste peck on his cheek.

“We’re both in trouble.”

* * *

“It’s so magical tonight,” Cassie whispered when they sat at a table beside the picture window. “I’m so glad you found Bistro on the Bay. I love coming here.” Something about the intimate French-themed restaurant enchanted her. Maybe the Bay’s sparkling surface under the moonlight? The soft jazz just loud enough to set the mood? Her attentive—boyfriend?—across the table. Cassie couldn’t restrain the giggle that escaped.Nothing boyish about Tom…but what term works? My guy, my hunky prince, hot hockey doc?

She saw the question in Tom’s eyes. “Care to share?”

Cassie shook her head. “Just pondering something.”

“Something profound, philosophical?”

Cassie swatted his shoulder with her menu. “Nothing like that, doctor.” She bit her lip. “How would you introduce me to someone I don’t know?”

“What do you mean?”

“Would you say I’m your brother’s nanny….or the niece of a best friend…” She paused, feeling her skin flush.

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