Page 68 of Pucking the Team

He nodded and studied me. “And can you do that?”

“With four hockey players to cook dinner for, I reckon I’m going to be kept busy.”

“We can order in.”

“I like cooking.”

“I like you.” The right side of his mouth twitched, almost a half-smile. “If you don’t mind me saying that.”

“You’re not jealous of Eduardo?”

He paused for a second then, “As long as our date is still set for Saturday. Just me and you, together, alone, then nah, you have fun with Eduardo, it’s not like we’re exclusive.”

My heart did a little trip over itself. That was good to hear. “Yes, yes, we’re still on for Saturday.”

A definite smile appeared. “Good, because I’m looking forward to it nearly as much as I’m looking forward to lifting the Stanley Cup again.”

I tipped my head and studied him. “Should I know what that is? The Stanley Cup.”

He chuckled and touched the tip of his nose to mine. “You’ll find out if you stick around long enough.”

His strength surrounded me. Dylan had the ability to make me forget everything but him, and I adored him for that. I pressed my lips to his.

The embrace he held me in tightened, and he returned the kiss.

“Hey, you guys, get a room!” Ben called.

“Might just do that,” Dylan said against my lips. “Not sure if I can wait until Saturday.”

I giggled and wriggled free. “Right. Where are we on the vegetable chopping?” I reached for a board and knife. “Andwhere are the chicken and prawns? I was sure I got them out of the fridge.”

The next hour went by pleasantly, cooking, drinking, and laughing with Ben, Eduardo, and Dylan—Theo had gone to his room. The pap shot went from my mind, as did Steven and Cheryl. I was sure I was far from theirs; Cheryl hadn’t even tried to make contact, so why should I let her play on my mind?

“Theo.” I rapped my knuckles on his closed door. “Dinner is served.”

“Mmm, okay, thanks…just coming.”

I heard his footsteps, then the door opened. He appeared to have been sleeping.

“Is everything all right with you?” I asked.

He kind of shrugged. “Yeah, why?”

“You weren’t at practice today.”

“No.”

“And you seem…” I took his hand. “Quiet.”

“It’s been a long day.” He had slight rings beneath his eyes.

“Want to talk about it?”

“Not now.” He smiled. “I’m hungry.”

“Me, too. Come on.” I tugged him. “But if you do want to talk, I’m a good listener.”

“Thanks, I appreciate it.”