Page 171 of The Penalty

Yanking me into his chest, he deepened the kiss. I surrendered to his touch and taste, losing myself in him. If my personal life was going to be splashed across the internet for everyone to see, it would be on my terms.

Xavier never left my side the rest of the day. Well, except for the game because he wasn’t allowed on the sideline even with his all access credential.

“Can’t really break this policy,” I teased. “Go hang out with Cade and your teammates. We’ll meet after the post-game interviews.”

The Legends ended up winning a nail biter against Indianapolis. Our kicker scored the winning field goal as time expired. The atmosphere was unlike anything I’d experienced in all my years in the league. Fans sang songs, chanted, cheered, and just had a hell of a time. There were points in the game where it was hard to decipher which team they were rooting for.

I escorted the last of the reporters out of the locker room.

“We have to come back next season,” Noah exclaimed, tossing his dirty uniform in the laundry bin. “That crowd was incredible.”

“Even when they booed you?” Dante smirked.

“Pretty sure it was you, Milano. That pass was right on the numbers. Catch it next time.” Noah turned to me. “You coming out with us, Victoria?”

“I sure am. You all better be on your best behavior.”

The equipment crew made short work of gathering everything and packing crates for the flight home. Normally, we’d go straight to the airport after an away game, but we’re officially on a bye week now so the plan was to meet at some swanky lounge in London.

After the last few days, a relaxing night out was needed.

Xavier waited for me in the hall outside the locker room. He handed me his credential with a smirk.

“Next time, I want the same access as you.”

“I’m going to have to deny your request.”

“A flat out denial? Again?” He pouted. Why the hell was that so sexy?

“You’ll have to come work for the Legends if you want that kind of access,” I teased, tucking the pass in my bag. “You know. Be the punter or something.”

“Wow.” He laughed. “And here I thought you liked me.”

The taxi ride to Constellations was quick. When we pulled up, I noticed Xavier clench his jaw.

“Not your favorite place?”

“I like it just fine.” He opened the door and stepped onto the sidewalk. “Haven’t been here since I chased Jordan down that alley.”

Shocked, I took his outstretched hand and followed him inside.

Dimly lit in shades of blue, cream, and lavender, the whole room gave off a relaxed, modern vibe. Some of my co-workers sat at the bar. Others crowded around tables, clinking glasses and enjoying appetizers.

“This place is incredible,” I marveled, settling into a plush velvet couch.

Xavier draped an arm over my shoulders and dipped his head to my ear. “It has its moments.” A light kiss warmed the skin on my cheek. “Still nothing new?”

“Nope. I’m guessing that means he got the message.”

“His next move won’t be subtle.”

“I know.” I rested a hand on his thigh. “I’m counting on it.”

A low, sexy laugh rumbled in his chest. “You are fiery.”

Turning toward him, I grinned. “You love it.”

“I do. Makes me not want to be a gentleman in front of all these people.”

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