Page 13 of The Penalty

“Thought I’d give it another go.”

I grinned, remembering how she’d put him in his place when he’d originally suggested it. “It was entertaining watching you get reprimanded that night.”

The usual arrogant glow in Bennet’s eyes softened to intrigue. “She’s a handful.”

I bristled a little at how he said that with a hint of intention. I know he’d never try anything but a reminder won’t hurt. “For my hands only.”

“Meeting Cade for dinner later?” he asked, ignoring me.

“Yeah. Figured we’d cause some trouble out in the city before the end of the season.”

Bennet stared at me like he’s done since we were teenagers. “Don’t even think about it,” he muttered, arching an eyebrow.

“Remember the day you first met us?”

“Vaguely.”

“Do you still wear those ridiculous chinos?”

“Sod off, Maddox,” he answered, giving me one of his this topic is closed stares. But I could tell he was amused. As much as he made my blood boil at times over the years, I appreciated his friendship more than I could ever express.

“Do me a favor.” I walked toward the door. “Don’t tell Hannah I’m going to Manhattan when you talk to her. She’ll tell Victoria.”

“As you wish, my liege.”

I threw a towel at him and went home.

Since I still had a couple hours before meeting Cade, I decided to take my mind off everything and watch something on television. Something mindless.

I’d just sat down on the couch when my phone chimed. My heart jumped. Fuck, I wanted it to be her.

Adam: Dinner next week?

I scowled.

Nope. I tossed the phone on the cushion and leaned my head back. Unfortunately for me, he kept texting.

And texting.

And texting.

I swore under my breath, grabbing the phone.

Adam: Don’t ignore me

Adam: Xavier

Adam: Answer me

Adam: Fuck you

Me: What’s the urgency?

Me: And fuck you too

Adam: No urgency. Dinner next week after training. Don’t blow me off

Adam: Asshole

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