Page 242 of Well Played

“Than being your pretend boyfriend? You know, I’d love that, and if it wipes that smug smile off Tom’s face, I’ll enjoy it more.” He chuckled. “Now you said you liked the bacon sandwich; what about the kiss?”

“Well, it was fine, but I’m not sure if we'll fool anyone with a kiss like that.”

6

Ryan

“Hmm…Looks like a great time to test that theory.” Ryan pulled her closer with one arm, the other still holding his sandwich. He wanted to tug her high ponytail; instead, he lowered his lips to hers. He started slowly, seeking permission, and only when Alice began to respond, did he deepen the kiss. Ryan lost his sense of time and place as the kiss continued. Only when he heard her best friend’s voice did he feel her pull back.

“No need to ask how you are this morning. And I guess that answers Sam’s question about where Ryan was,” chuckled Grace. Alice broke away from him and took a bite of her sandwich, looking out from under her lashes. Ryan gulped.

“Where is Sam? I’ve no idea what court I’m on.”

Alice studied the ground rather than look at Grace.What will she think?Have I gone too far?

“That bacon smells tasty. Come on, Jake, I’m hungry.” Grace said. Jake had been watching the exchange with a wicked smile on his face.

“Yes, I’m starving. We play Ryan at some point today. I need to make sure I’m well-nourished,” he laughed. “Have you seen Tom? He’s got our kit.” Grace’s elbow landed in his side. “Oh, I’m sorry; sadly, he is still in our club, so we are going to have to talk to him. I’m sorry, Alice, but it’s a fact.” Ryan slipped his hand around Alice’s and squeezed. Knowing he could be there for her gave him such a lift. He watched her offer Jake a brave smile.

“It’s OK, Jake; I don’t expect you not to mention him or talk to him. I’ve seen him already this morning. I know he thought I wouldn’t turn up and make it difficult for you all.”

Grace’s eyebrows shot up. “I’m sorry. What?”

Ryan squeezed her hand again. He wanted to shield her from all this.

“That’s what it sounded like. I nearly punched him.”

“But you didn’t?”

“Nah, I just kissed Alice instead. I’m pretty sure that hurt him more.” Ryan smiled at them, and they all smiled back. “So, you go and get a good breakfast, Jake, you’re going to need it. Come on, Alice, back to the tent.”

By the time they’d reached the bright blue tent, they’d both finished the food. Alice licked her lips.

“Is that the bacon, or are you asking for another kiss?” Ryan teased. Alice’s face reddened as she looked away.

“Hey, I didn’t want to upset you more.”

“More?” Her high ponytail swished as she turned back. Ryan resisted the urge to grip it tight and tilt back her head. He cleared his throat.

“From the moment I saw your face last night, I knew something was wrong and when I hugged you … well, I got the impression you were happy with that.” He sighed. “I know you would rather not talk about it … him … I don’t want to make it harder for you. Maybe I should shut up.”

“Oh, Ryan. What can I say?”

“What do you want, Alice? I could stop this kissing. I mean, I could try to stop the kissing; it is rather addictive.” His wide grin beamed out at her; she couldn’t help returning the smile.

“Where’s the fun in that?” she teased.

“Good girl. Now chin up.” He bent his head, his mouth hovering over hers. Alice’s lips twitched into a smile. Finally, after waiting far too long, it all felt so right.I know this is just pretend, but it feels so intoxicating. Shut up and enjoy the weekend.

Eventually, she lifted on her toes until her lips hit his. It came a bit harder than she meant, and she wobbled. Ryan grabbed her shoulders to keep her upright, and she sank back down, putting her feet flat on the floor. Ryan’s lips never left hers. As soon as she was steady again, his tongue began to explore the seam of her mouth. Gently teasing her and probing. Alice dropped her bag and returned the kiss with renewed passion.

Ryan wrapped his arms around her, pulling her in closer. His hand dropped to her backside, caressing the roundness. His hands tightened as he lifted her from the ground, and her legs flew around his body. His mouth explored her neck, licking up to her ear. Alice let out a soft moan.

“I think we need to go and find which courts we are on,” Alice said.

“Who cares? We could stay here. No one would even know we were in that tent.”

“Ryan!” Alice’s laugh showed how nervous he made her.

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