Page 104 of Playing the Pucking Game

The guys sit silently, looking back and forth between us like they’re watching a tennis match.

“You two…” Handsy starts.

“Are you living together?” Killer finishes, like an old married couple.

“It’s a temporary thing,” Parker explains. “There was a fire in my building, and I didn’t have much of a choice.”

“And I love it so when she makes me feel appreciated,” I deadpan.

She rolls her eyes but watches me closely as I sit back down on the couch.

I’d be lying if I said the pain had subsided. But it will.

I’m playing our next game. There is no question about that.

“I’ll get you some ice, then I’m going to bed. Continue as if I’m not here.”

My eyes track her as she moves to the kitchen and bends over a little to open the freezer.

Fuck, she has a spectacular ass.

“How was the date?” Marilyn asks when she turns around and walks back toward us.

Parker sighs before pulling on a smile. It’s all I need to know that it didn’t go well.

“Yeah, you know. About as good as any date you find on Tinder.”

“That good?” Handsy asks.

“Yep,” she says before turning her eyes on me. “Massive disappointment.”

I open my mouth to say something, although I’m not entirely sure what, but she beats me to it.

“If you have any more issues, you know where to find me. If not, enjoy the rest of your night.”

“You’re welcome to join us,” Killer calls as she walks away.

“Maybe another time. You guys have already lost once this week. I’d hate to see you do it again. And to a girl.”

The guys all chuckle before Marilyn announces, “I like her.”

“Excuse me?” I blurt before I can think better of it.

“Whoa, not like that. I just mean I’m glad she’s a part of the team. She’s better than Mitchell, and she’s fun to talk to.”

I raise a brow, and he holds his hands up in defense. “I’m not interested, I promise.”

I look at each of them and find a whole range of questions in each of their eyes. None of them voices them, though. Instead, Killer slaps his thighs and says, “We should probably head out. Let you rest that leg.”

Only a few minutes later, they’ve gathered up all their stuff, and they’re heading toward the elevator.

“Please don’t say anything about her being here,” I say quietly.

I don’t want to be a reason her life is harder at work than necessary.

“Your secret is safe with us, Storm. Any secret, for that matter.”

“Get the hell out of here,” I bark before the elevator doors close on them, leaving me standing in the middle of my silent apartment.