Page 44 of No Promises, No Lies

He waits while the rest of the team clears out. Liam gives me a side glance before disappearing down the tunnel to the locker rooms. I shift restlessly on my skates. I’d left little Kostalova asleep in my bed this morning and need to get back to the loft to figure out what the fuck to do with her.

“Today was better, but I still get the sense you’re distracted…” Coach’s eyes narrow on me like he’s trying to read my mind to find out exactly where the block is.

I try to refocus my attention on my coach.Me? distracted? Nah…Couldn’t have anything to do with the fact I woke up this morning curled around a little Russian angel, nose buried in long, golden hair. I can still smell that heavenly scent. A mixture of vanilla and cinnamon from the bath, mixed with something else… something purely divine and innately Rory.

“Sorry Coach, I’ll have my shit together before the Falcons game,” I promise him. Our first pre-season opener is against our bitter rivals, the New York Falcons.

“See that you do, O’Rourke.” He pauses, studying me with an unreadable expression on his face. “I know the recent loss of your father has been hard on you and your—family.” I do my best to keep my expression blank. Coach is well aware of my roots, but seeing as how both Liam and I have stayed out of the family business the past few years, it’s hardly been an issue.

“Don’t let yourself get distracted from what matters. This season’s make or break for you… My recommendation only goes so far.”

It’s a contract year and I’m on the chopping block. Some of it is warranted, but most of it’s not. The team owners don’t like me. I know Coach has my back but like he said—his recommendation only goes so far.

“I need you focused, Aidan. No distractions.” His hazel eyes flash with a warning.

I give him a stiff nod to let him know I’ve heard him. Everything I’ve ever wanted is almost within my grasp. A contract with the Breakers keeps me in the city for the next few years. It’s all I want.

Ineedthis business with the family wrapped up so I can get back to the life I’ve worked so hard to carve out for myself. I’d chosen hockey over the mob a long time ago, and my family supported my decision. Myfathersupported my decision. Claimed Liam and I had a gift and it would be a “damn shame” if we let it go to waste.

“No distractions,” I repeat, reminding myself as much as affirming my coach.

A certain Russian princess flashes into my brain as I speak.

Now, more than ever, the little angel needed togo.

27

DON’T FEED THE CAPTIVES

RORY

Iwake to an empty bed.

Blinking against the bright light of the morning, streaming in from the many windows in the room, I realize I slept in.

After having early coaching sessions for almost as long as I can remember, I’m usually up before the sun every day.

If the clock in Aidan’s room is to be believed, it is 9:45 a.m.

Sitting up, I shift my feet to the floor. Taking it slow, in case of any lingering vertigo. Once I realize I’m no longer dizzy, I breathe out a sigh of relief. Only a mild headache remains—like the kind you get when you’ve cried too many tears.

Looking around, I can see the bed is not the only thing empty. I’m alone in Aidan’s room.

It’s peaceful. The warm sun of the late morning streams through the glass ceiling and windows, the sounds of birds chirping from the courtyard below. I notice Aidan’s room also overlooks the private garden.

The light of day reveals a surprisingly neat bedroom. Decorated in dark greens and charcoals, it reminds me of the man who calls it home.

My stomach growls, reminding me that basic needs exist. Glancing around the room, I don’t see a tray or any food left out; only a bottle of water by the bed. My attention slowly slides to the hall door. It’s closed.

I chew my bottom lip and stare at the door. It’s probably locked. But before I lose my nerve, I slowly cross the room to test the handle.

Unlocked.

I suck in a breath and blink at the door I’ve cracked open in disbelief. Opening it just enough to poke my head out, I find the hallway empty, and the rest of the loft quiet. Except for the distant drone of a tv further down the hall.

Where is everyone?

Aidan told me the exterior doors are code locked, and we are twenty stories up.Does that mean I have free rein in the loft?Though dressed in only Aidan’s sweatshirt and boxers, I’m not too keen on leaving this room and strutting about the O’Rourke family stronghold.

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