Page 14 of Caught from Behind

CHAPTER FIVE

Daniela

Cool air kisses my cheeks.

The noise of the rapidly filling hockey arena echoes around the enclosed space, making my ears ring.

I so don’t want to be here, but I plaster a smile on my face and sit in our fancy glass-front seats anyway. I’m with my best friend and it’s fun watching Nova moon over Lake.

No. Not fun.

It’s incredible that my friend who was so scared to form attachments has planted deep roots here, has reached for what makes her happy.

And it’s all because of me.

I smother a grin, mentally buff my knuckles on my shoulder.

I should quit doing hair and go into full-time matchmaking—or open a matchmaking and hair salon. Get some low lights while also finding the love of your life.

Bam. Business plan made.

The crack of a stick on the ice has me tucking away business strategies and focusing back on the little girl standing in front of me, who’s hair I’m braiding. I add a dash of glitter, tie on a colorful bow and then she’s running back up to her parentals.

“I still don’t know how you do that so fast,” Nova says as I tuck my supplies away and lean back in my seat. “I’m so totally hopeless with braids.”

“I got you, boo.” I pull my glitter back out, threaten to sprinkle it over her. “Tahoe blue? Or pine tree green?”

“Oh, it’s got to be the sparkly white snow,” she says on a laugh, snagging the little container and threatening me right back.

Luckily, thanks to Knox making me practice with him so often growing up, I have quick hands. I snag it back, pocket the little canisters of craft store herpes. “Too slow,” I tease, blowing her a kiss.

I love that she grins in reply. I love that she’s happy.

She returns her focus to the ice, and I’m forced to face what I’ve been avoiding all night?—

The teams warming up on the ice in front of me.

The man in particular who sends a bolt of shame through me.

Enough. Move on. Enjoy this experience. Enjoy the time with my bestie.

I close my eyes for a long moment, grasping on to that, and when I open them again, I’m more centered. I’m ready to have a good time.

And really, how can I not? These are great seats. For as many games as I’ve gone to, I’ve never been this close to the ice. Not in an NHL arena, anyway.

But, damn, I can see everything.

Everyone.

Including Riggs.

Or maybe…especially Riggs.

Ugh.

I deliberately turn my gaze away from the bearded big guy who I just want to watch all night?—

Preferably naked. While he’s fucking me senseless?—

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