Page 37 of Mine to Take

A smile lights up his handsome face as he laughs with one of his teammates. The way his lips curve and the flash of white teeth hits me like a punch to the gut. Memories from the night we spent together roll through my brain like a slow-motion picture show.

The way he ran his strong hands over my body…

He hadn’t been hesitant or careful.

After slipping into the townhouse I share with Holland the next morning, I’d shed my clothing for a quick shower. Right before I’d stepped into the enclosed space, I’d caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. There’d been hickies and handprints all over my breasts and inner thighs.

It had been shocking.

But deliciously so.

Maverick had played my body like a fine instrument, making it come alive.

Even though it’s only been a handful of days since we slept together, I’ve relived the memory at least a thousand times.

When he glances around the restaurant, I squeak and duck my head.

Shit. I really hope he didn’t see me.

“Willow?” River frowns. “Are you all right?”

I flick a quick look at my brother as he shovels another forkful of rice and beans into his mouth. “I, um…don’t feel well.” I force a wince. “The tacos are hitting me hard.”

“Really?” His brows pinch. “We come here all the time and you’ve never had a problem before.”

“Yeah, I’m not sure what the issue is. My belly feels like it’s in shambles.”

He holds up a hand. “TMI.”

“Would you mind grabbing the check and paying this time? Holland dropped me off, so I’ll need a ride back to campus.” I chance another peek at the hot hockey player. I’m certainly not the only girl eye fucking him. He draws female attention like bees to honey. “I’ll wait in the SUV for you, okay?”

“Sure. No problem. Give me a few minutes.”

As soon as Maverick and his group are shown to a table, I dip my head and race for the exit. On the way out, my gaze collides with Hayes’s. That’s all it takes for a wide smile to light up his face as he shakes his head in amusement. When he points to Maverick, whose back is turned to him, and widens his eyes, looking like he’s going to tap him on the shoulder, I scowl and give him the finger.

That only makes him laugh harder.

One of these days, I’m going to strangle that guy.

It’s a relief when I shove through the glass door and into the chilled afternoon air.

The only problem?

My brother is still inside.

With my one-night stand.

12

Maverick

My senses heighten as I do a double take and slowly scan the restaurant. For just a second or two, I could have sworn I caught sight of the hot blonde from the other night.

As I study each face in the crowd, none are hers.

I’d recognize her heart-shaped face, pouty pink lips, bright blue eyes and golden hair anywhere.

My hand drifts to the delicate silver chain that hangs around my neck.

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