Page 47 of The Penalty

I swallowed. We both know that last part had nothing to do with other people. “And how do you see me?”

Xavier’s breathing staggered for a split second before answering. “Like you are the most remarkable, beautiful, rare creature I’ve ever seen.”

The words ignited every cell in my body.

“Never forget that, love.”

“I won’t.”

“Good.” His lips brushed mine in the softest of kisses, sending my heart galloping. “Come with me.”

Victoria

Xavier led me outside to where we’d been earlier. The warm night air carried the sounds and smells of summer on it: insects calling, leaves rustling in a soft breeze, and the sweet, sharp scent of freshly cut grass.

“Ever been lost in there?” he motioned toward the hedge maze.

“No. I actually haven’t been in there at all.”

Wicked playfulness sparked in his eyes. “No time like the present.”

“Wha— Xavier,” I exclaimed as he pulled me onto the path.

“It’ll be fine, city princess. Trust me.”

We stayed silent through all the left and right turns, until arriving at a clearing with lights and columns. Large stone benches sat along the edges. They almost looked like sacrificial tables.

Did he just get us to the center of this thing?

“That was easy.”

“How did—”

“Jax and Dante told me.” His grin was so damn intoxicating. “Apparently they’ve been out here many times and said there are two clearings. I asked how to find one of them.”

“I guess Jax knows how to sacrifice some brain cells for the greater good.”

I heard him laugh while I strolled around one of the square columns. The lights were dim, casting blurred shadows on the grass.

Stories about this maze spread like wildfire over the years. Some people got lost for hours trying to find their way. Others got lost on purpose to steal private moments in the darkness.

I stood in the middle, taking it all in. The quiet was gentle and comforting. A stark contrast to the frantic electricity skimming down my spine. Heat and anticipation crawled over every inch of my body. I could feel the intensity of Xavier’s stare burning through the back of my dress.

Fidgeting with the ring hanging from my necklace, I turned to face him.

“If this soccer thing doesn’t pan out for you, there’s always a career in navigation.” I gave him a playful wink, expecting a smart ass reply or a dark stare or maybe even a low, sexy laugh.

What I didn’t expect was the utter chaos his sultry answering smile wrought on my heart.

“This soccer thing,” he repeated, moving closer until I couldn’t see anything else but him. “If that’s the case, I guess I’d rather be the punter.”

“You’d look good in a Legends jersey.”

“Would you wear it?”

Without question. “Maybe.”

“I’d love to see you with my name on your back.” The soft, meaningful dip in his voice arrowed through me. “It would look perfect.”

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