Page 66 of Penalty Shot

“Guys!” Kaden says loudly. “She’s not lost, she got hurt! Heading to the hospital!” I imagine him on the stage dramatically announcing the news. A chorus of concern trickles through the speaker.

“I gotta go. Grab the box of condoms before someone else does,” I repeat firmly.

“Call me as soon as you get patched up. We’re all worried.”

“I will.” I end the call.

“Thanks,” I address Randall. “There’s no need for an emergency visit. I can give you directions to an urgent care facility close by.”

Randall resumes driving. I watch his profile like I did when I saw him in that video. Except now he isn’t happy and carefree.

“You look like you’re having an aneurism,” I say, only half joking. “Maybe you need a doctor more than I do.”

“Where do I turn?” he asks.

“Take a left on the third light. And for your information, condoms have many uses besides orgies. A couple of actors sweat a lot, so we have to wrap the mic transmitter in a condom before sticking it on their bodies.”

Randall’s brows raise so high, they’re almost touching his hairline. “Really?”

“Actually, no, I was on my way to an orgy,” I deadpan.

He exhales and nearly smiles. Still staring at the road ahead, Randall speaks haltingly.

“Sorry I surprised you. I’m here because the season ended last night and, well…” He pauses and glances at me. This time, the megawatt smile is blinding. “I couldn’t think of anywhere else I’d rather be.”

Be still, my beating heart. He cannot be saying all manner of swoony things.

“To be clear, you’re not talking about the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, right? People from all over the world come to Cleveland for it, after all.”

“Elise, I’m serious.”

I take a minute to look at him. “You wanted to be here.”

“With you. I drove here because the first thing I thought about when I woke up this morning is I wanted to be with you.”

“Oh.” Oh, indeed. I know Randall and I have gotten closer than either of us expected. And maybe sleeping with him when I was in Columbus stirred my emotions more than I’m willing to admit.

But didn’t he bring another woman home recently? Isn’t there a stash of condoms in this glove compartment?

When I don’t say anything else, he clears his throat.

“I see the urgent care sign. I’ll bring you in before I park.”

“Randall, there’s nothing wrong with my feet.”

“No way you’re having another spill.” He’s out of the car in a blink. Opening my door, Randall leans over like he’s about to carry me again.

“I’ve got it!” I announce cheerfully while swinging my feet out. Unfortunately, he’s leaning over at the worst possible angle. Upon contact, Randall exhales anoofand bends over.

“I’m so sorry! I can’t believe I kicked you in the nuts!”

“I’m fine,” he mumbles, clearly in pain. He stretches his back and holds his hand out. “I should have listened when you told me you’d rather walk.”

“Chivalry is lost on me,” I say, taking his hand and standing. The movement brings us closer.

Looking up at those sparkling blues, I can’t help my confession.

“I was thinking about you all morning. I fell asleep in front of the television trying to finish the game. You must be exhausted. I still can’t believe you’re here.”