Page 35 of Icebound Attraction

“Earth to Emily,” says Cassy, patting me on the shoulder.

“Huh?” I reply.

She laughs.

“Are you listening to us?”

“Sorry... I think I'd better go home; my headache won't go away.”

They look disappointed but say nothing. I decline their offer of a lift and hug them in turn before leaving.

The fresh air does me a world of good.

As I walk back to my university building, the scene from earlier is replayed in my head.

How can I study with Liam now? That's all right, he can manage on his own now. But what about the interviews I have to do at every game? How can I be relaxed in front of him after what's just happened?

***

On the day of the hockey team's game, I arrive at the rink just in time. The guys are still warming up on the ice and, predictably, the stands are overflowing with spectators. Coach Franklyn greets me, quick to apologize for the last practice where he yelled at me.

I take a seat on the bench and get out my camera to illustrate my article. As I focus the lens on Liam, he winks at me. Immediately, what happened at the party the other night comes to mind. No wonder women fall at his feet! He has an incredible charm... Embarrassed and confused, I put my equipment down beside me and take out my notebook.

The game begins.

The team seems to have regained confidence compared to the training session I attended the other day, and I put that down to the admonishments the coach must have given them. Liam is excellent. This time, all his shots are on target. The crowd goes wild when the whistle blows for the victory of our university team. Another one! Even I get caught up in the infectious good mood and clap my hands. The players celebrate their success, and I take the opportunity to snap a few photos.

Before leaving, I ask Coach Franklyn a few questions. This way, I don't have to meet Liam in person. I find this tactic very clever, and I'm glad I thought of it.

I quickly pack up my things and head home to work, before the captain - who's too sexy - comes to meet me.

As I sit down at home and start writing my article, the vibration of my cell phone pulls me out of my concentration. It's Liam...

* I thought we had to debrief together at the end of every game. What a disappointment to have learned that you had asked your questions to the coach... If you're ever in the mood come party with us.

Reading his message, I feel angry, but also terribly attracted by the idea of joining him. My body reacts immediately, and it takes a lot of effort to suppress the urge to see Liam again.

This guy's got a lot of nerve!

* I can't tonight, I'm busy

A clear and concise message. I'm so proud of myself!

Another vibration immediately follows.

* Come on, Emi, just for an hour!

He insists... Does he really want to see me? Is this another game of seduction? Why is he trying to seduce me in the first place? I hope he hasn't made a bet with his buddies...

I think back to our encounters in the library, to this Liam who's so different, and I know he's hiding behind that air of a playboy who can have it all. If only he had enough self-confidence to be like that all the time. But anyway, I think I like every side of him! I'm so screwed!

I sigh. I can't deny it's nice to be wooed by such an incredibly attractive guy. Well... I can write my article tomorrow, can't I?

* OK but just for an hour. Where are you?

The pizzeria where I meet him is next to the campus. It's packed and the noise inside is insane.

Why did I give in?

---