Page 7 of Test the Ice
She is.
Sure, she may be waiting for Daisy, but I can totally pretend she’s waiting for me.
“Her name is Reese.” Daisy gives me a look. “And you better tip her well, Malaki.”
On the inside, I’m smiling like a fool.
I’ll tip her well, alright…if she’ll let me.
Three
REESE
I don’t get sweptoff my feet by men.
After Benedict blinded me with his chivalry and tricked me into thinking he was a decent man, I stopped falling for sexy smirks and flirty eyes.
That doesn’t stop Malaki Young from trying, though.
I acted like I didn’t know who he was, but I knew right away. Each time I drive to the hockey arena to pick up boisterous Blue Devils fans in need of a ride, I spot his face on the little flags lining the street. Most of the players in their jerseys are listed, though his photo always catches my eye first–not that I’m admitting that to anyone.
He nudges me with his shoulder on the way to my car. “Alone at last.”
A surprised laugh leaves me. “Alone at last? You just met me two minutes ago.”
He smiles, and I’m choosing to pretend that it isn’t heart-stopping.
Malaki towers over me, his height casting shadows against my face as we walk toward my car.
His smile digs even further into his chiseled face. “And I already find myself wanting to get you alone,” he admits.
My steps falter.
I know all about Malaki from the overly chatty and often tipsy hockey fans I’ve picked up from the arena over the last several months. He’s known as one of the best defensive players in the league with speed that outshines all the rest. He’s even up for MVP of the year. But I don’t let those facts deter me from steering clear of that tempting twinkle in his eye.
“Hey…” he starts quietly. “I’m only kidding."
I peer up at his tall frame, and he wears a face of worry.
Suddenly, I’m offended by the thought that he doesn’t want me alone.
Wait, what?Why do I care?
“I’m over here.” I point at my car.
Malaki follows behind, silence settling in between us.
I reach for the door handle, but he steps in front of me, leaving my hand outstretched in between us. I pull back out of shock, half irritated that he’s blocking me from my car. “What are you–”
I drop the question when I’m met with an opened car door. Malaki’s large hand remains on the door handle while the other rests on top of my car. He motions for me to get inside, his eyebrows rising to his forehead like he’s confused that I haven’t moved from the spot on the pavement.
“Oh.” I slowly sit down in the driver’s seat and allow my lips to form a forced smile. “Thanks.”
Malaki dips his chin, a playful smirk twitching on his lips.
“You’re welcome, Dimples.”
My nose scrunches at the nickname. It’s been a long time since someone has pointed out my dimples. “Very original."
