Page 10 of Testing the Goalie

I’ve had a reputation as a playboy for the past three years, but maybe I’ve outgrown those days. Sure, I love sex, and I don’t have time for a relationship, so it’s worked well, but sleeping with a different guy or girl every night doesn’t have the same appeal it once did. Maybe it’s time I find someone open to a friends-with-benefits type relationship.

Of course, the first person who pops into my head as I think about that is Ian. Not that we’re even friends, but I’d like to change that if he gives me the chance.

I just don’t see that happening.

CHAPTER SIX

IAN

It’s been a week since Ben walked into my classroom and handed me his phone number—seven days where I haven’t been able to get him out my mind. So many times, I should have thrown out said number but haven’t been able to bring myself to do it. Instead, I programmed it into my phone and have been staring at the number for too long every night.

Here I am again, grading papers and casting glances at my phone.

Should I just send him a text already?

No.

I can’t.

It goes against all my ethics.

I don’t date students…

… ever.

Whether they are mine or not. The school would be fine with it as long as I filled out the proper paperwork. At least, that’s what I assume. Yet, it still doesn’t seem right.

Tell that to my fingers that are itching to reach for my phone and do it anyway.

Giving my head a shake, I ignore the desire to text him and continue to grade papers. Maybe with time, the urge to reach out will fade. I just have to push through and be strong.

I can do that.

Right?

The hallways are always packed with students, and I smile and wave at the familiar faces, not missing the way some students blush or whisper to their friends as they pass. I’ve been dubbed the hot new teacher, which is damn annoying, but there isn’t anything I’m able to do about it except keep my boundaries clear.

“Funny seeing you here, Professor Johnson.”

I instantly recognize the voice, and my body heats with desire, but I force my feet to keep moving.

“I struggle to see how it’s funny, considering this is my place of employment,” I state, and Ben steps in beside me, keeping pace.

“Well, I wouldn’t have to hunt you down if you had just called,” he tells me with a bratty smirk.

“I won’t be calling you,” I state quietly. Surprisingly, my voice is firm, not giving away what I really want.

“Why not?” he inquires, nibbling on his lower lip and looking a bit self-conscious, which makes me feel like a jerk. I don’t want to upset him, but I can’t give in either. “You wanted my number when you left the resort.”

“That was before I knew you were going to be a student at this college,” I reply, keeping my voice low.

“Did I cross a line?” he asks with furrowed brows and a slight frown.

Technically, he didn’t because I hadn’t set it yet, but I need to put the boundary in place now. Unfortunately, the university halls aren’t the best place.

“We can’t have this conversation here,” I tell him and don’t miss how his eyes light up a little.

“Where do you want to talk then?” he inquires with a small hopeful smile.

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