Page 99 of Ice Ice Maybe
Seconds later, the doors dinged open.
I was shirtless, sweating like a pig, and out of breath, practically straddling an equally half-naked and dazed Mitch. My hands cradled his head in what could only be described by innocent bystanders as a lover’s embrace.
The crowd outside—because of course there was a crowd—collectively gasped. I locked eyes with Zena, whose expression cycled through shock, confusion, and something that looked a little too close to amusement. Mr. Dalton, on the other hand, looked like he’d swallowed a puck.
As the silence stretched, broken only by someone’s poorly stifled giggle, I realized that no explanation in the world could make this look any less compromising.
I cleared my throat, attempting a casual tone that came out more like a pubescent squeak. “Did someone call for the elevator?”
Chapter Twenty-Four
Zena
It was impossible to contain my smile as I shared the story of Nolan’s elevator incident with Jing while we walked toward Lucha Libre Taco Shop for the surprise set-up between her and Tyson.
“So, there I was, expecting to see him step out of the elevator like a normal, fully clothed person,” I managed between giggles, “when suddenly the doors opened and BAM! Nolan is panting and hovering over Mitch, both of them shirtless and glistening like they’ve just finished a steamy workout!”
Jing’s eyes widened. “I had no idea the Sea Lions had ventured into adult entertainment. Did someone get it on video?”
“Only time will tell,” I said, tapping the side of my head. “But I’ve got it recorded here, so it will live forever in my head.”
Jing wiped tears of mirth from her eyes. “I wish I could have seen it.”
“Knowing Nolan, it won’t be the last time,” I said. “He always seems to get into trouble, which makes our relationship very entertaining.”
As the restaurant came into view, I spotted the guys at an outside table. I kept quiet, hoping Jing would see Nolan and say something instead of me.
Right on cue, Jing tugged my sleeve. “Hey, isn’t that Nolan at the taco shop?”
I feigned surprise. “You’re right. He told me he was having lunch with his friend Tyson, but I thought he mentioned something about grabbing pizza.”
“We have to say hi,” Jing insisted.
We most certainly do.
“Let’s make it quick—I’m seriously craving that sushi,” I lied.
“Sounds good,” Jing said.
We approached their table near the sidewalk and then I joked, “Glad to see you’re obeying the clothing policy at this fine establishment.”
Nolan turned to me and smirked. “The day is young—you never know what might happen after a margarita or two.” He shot me a wink.
I pointed to his drink. “Says the man who’s drinking a largehorchata.”
“I was talking aboutyoudrinking the margaritas, not me,” he said. “Assuming you are also going to eat here.”
I shook my head and gestured down the street. “We’re on our way to Yoshino’s for some sushi. The genuine kind.”
“Nothing with Spam and sauerkraut?” Nolan asked.
“Never again.” I crinkled my nose. “Don’t tell your mom, but that was a once-in-a-lifetime event my stomach is struggling to forget. Oh, where are my manners? Jing, this is Nolan and his friend Tyson.”
“Nice to meet you,” Jing said with a wave and a smile.
“Likewise,” Tyson replied, his eyes lingering on Jing.
There was a spark of interest between them, always a good sign.
