Page 39 of Worth the Risk

She nearly snorts out a laugh. “That was such a ridiculous moment.”

“You’re in luck that it didn’t happen when I met you. Otherwise, I would have to include that detail in the how-we-met story.”

She nuzzles into my neck, and I pick up on the fact she inhales deeply, as if she’s taking in my scent. I don’t call her out on it, instead relishing the thought that she is taking in this minute.

“Was there traffic?”

“A little. I mean, this weather is fantastic, so people seem to be escaping the city. It’ll be nice to just sit out here all weekend, preferably while I watch you cook.”

“You’re just using me for my view,” I joke and tickle her side.

She begins to wiggle, and in retrospect this move was a bad call because it’s causing friction against my dick, and I wanted to romance her a little before I have my way with her.

Piper giggles until I stop, wrapping her tighter in my arms before we kiss to calm us down. A soothing kiss that feels as natural as the air I breathe.

She dips her tongue into my mouth, and I welcome her. I’ll give her anything she asks for.

I cradle her cheek and swipe my thumb across her skin. “What am I going to do with you?”

“I don’t know. I gave you a week to think about it, remember?” she reminds me with knowing eyes.

“Oh, don’t you worry, that part I know. I mean, should I wine and dine you first or throw you over my shoulder and take you upstairs?” I ask her seriously.

Piper hops off my lap to stand and holds out her hand. “That’s an easy decision.”

I join her in standing, with the corners of my mouth twisting, as I want to smirk. “Oh yeah?”

“Uh-huh.” Her voice turns sultry, and she grabs the fabric of my shirt to pull me to her. She steps closer and her lips come back to my ear to whisper, “To the kitchen, I’m starving.”

Looking at her, I realize that she is dead serious, and as much as I hate that answer, I equally love it because I want to hear about her week and talk. Besides, when we go to my room today, then we sure as hell aren’t leaving it until breakfast.

* * *

For dinner,I kept it simple, with Halloumi with grilled red onion, asparagus, and a vinaigrette pasta, for which Piper fawned over me in amazement that I cook. We ate casually at the counter before grabbing a bottle of wine and headed out to the dock to catch the last of the evening sun before it sets. I even turned on the decorative lightbulbs that hang along the dock.

We sit opposite each other on a blanket with wine glasses. There is a very gentle breeze on this warm June evening. I hope we survive, as the mosquitos may get us, but the sound of the water lapping gently is a soothing backdrop.

“I know I need a boat here but maybe next season,” I explain.

“I guess it would be nice.” Piper’s lips tilt into a smirk. “So, the other day I was with April at a bar…”

I’m not sure why I’m scared. It isn’t because she mentions April, but I’m fairly confident that it’s the thought of some guy Piper’s age probably trying to pick her up that has me on edge.

I adjust my neck in discomfort but patiently wait for her to finish her sentence.

“You were on the TV in some documentary.”

I chuckle in relief before taking a sip of my wine. “Oh yeah?”

“About your football career.”

I recall a documentary I did two years ago when I signed with the Winds. “They still show that thing?” I look into my glass, but I feel Piper’s eyes on me.

“Yep. Can’t lie, I was intrigued. Anyway, April mentioned that there is a rumor that you might get traded or something.”

I peer up, wondering if it’s concern that is laced in her tone. I swear that I sense it. “Only rumor. My contract with the team is for two more seasons, and they’re already negotiating with my agent for a renewal, but I said I won’t give an answer until mid-season. Otherwise, the option of another team somewhere else is on the table.”

“Oh.” She quickly occupies herself with her wine.

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