Page 75 of Scores Of The Heart

“It’s not that.” I shake my head. “It’s Henry.”

He thinks for a minute, then laughs. “Your little Frenchie?”

“He’s at home watching the game. I left it on for him.”

He chuckles next to me. “I’m happy to go hang out with Henry if you’re okay with having me there.”

“You must think I’m a complete weirdo.” I sigh as I drive. My heart is pounding at the thought of having him in my place. I want him there, but it’s just not something I’m used to.

He looks at me strangely. “In what way?” He keeps hold of my hand as I drive, rubbing his thumb along the back of my skin. It feels good like this, so easy.

We don’t have to hide or worry about who’s watching.

“With not jumping your bones already.”

He throws his head back and laughs. “You say some funny things, baby.”

“I’m being serious!”

“Sorry.” He coughs into his hand. “I don’t think you’re a weirdo. You explained to me your reasons for taking things slow, and I respect them. Granted, it’s a new thing for me. But I told you I’m happy to wait until we know each other better and until you’re ready. I mean it.”

I glance at him for a moment and notice he’s watching me intently.

“Thank you for understanding,” I say. “A lot of guys don’t. Believe me, I’ve been on so many first dates that never eventuated because I wouldn’t sleep with the guy.”

He shakes his head, running his hand over his face. “Guys can be complete dicks, Cindy. That’s all I can say.”

“It isn’t like I’m not attracted to you,” I murmur.

He chuckles again. “I know. You don’t have to explain it to me. There’s no pressure.”

“But at my age, I know it can appear strange.” I sigh.

He rubs the back of my hand again with his thumb. “Don’t do that. Don’t doubt the things that make you unique, Cindy. When the right guy comes along, he will understand. Like the one that’s sitting here.”

I press my lips together, fighting a giggle. My gosh, he’s certainly a very different guy behind closed doors. He’s all broody alpha out there in the open, but a sweetheart when we’re alone. I love that about Tyler. I feel very safe and protected with him.

“You’re very sweet,” I say, as I try to concentrate on driving, and not his large frame taking up the entire right side of the car.

“Don’t go telling anyone,” he chuckles.

I laugh too. “Oh, we wouldn’t want to spoil your reputation.”

He squeezes my hand again as we make our way back to my place. He talks about the game and some of the highlights, and what it felt like holding the Stanley Cup.

“It was such a cool moment,” I agree. “I couldn’t believe the final goal, too. Talk about heart stopping.”

“I know.” He chuckles. “I mean, we knew we had it in the bag by then, but until that buzzer sounds, you don’t really take it in.”

“You were sexy out there.” .

He turns his head. “Me?”

I nod. “Yup.”

“Do you know what’s sexy, Cindy Carter?”

I shiver at the way he says my full name. “What is?” I ask him, anticipating his reply.

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