Page 83 of Pucking the Team

I smiled at his simplistic view. “Good idea.” With a sigh, I began to whisk the batter while the pan heated.

“And what will you do today?” Eduardo took a seat on one of the kitchen barstools.

“Maybe some shopping. I’ve mainly got beachwear and I could do with some more normal clothes and a warm jacket.”

“Ah, then you must go to Millenia Mall, that will suit you well.”

“If that’s what you think?”

“I do.” Eduardo nodded seriously. “How about I order you a driver for the day and you can come and go as you please.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

“I do, we are all going to be at the rink until late, coach Mike has a grueling day for our guts and paces.” He raised his eyebrows. “That is not the right expression, but you know what I mean.”

I smiled. “I can imagine, and thank you. A driver would be great.”

The mall Eduardo had suggested was right up my street. It was full of high-end designer shops, and I was spoilt for choice. A few of the assistants recognized me, and it was nice to chat for a while about fashion and the modelling scene.

I bought a few summer dresses that weren’t so beachy, another pair of jeans along with a denim mini skirt. I stocked up on toiletries, got some new black Armani sunglasses that I couldn’t resist, and a pair of red Gucci sandals. I also found a nice warm jacket that would be perfect for the rink.

By the time the driver—Leonard—had delivered me back to Ben’s and Theo’s place, my feet were aching.

I had a key and let myself in. The house was quiet, and with a cup of tea in hand, I went upstairs and showered. My new shower gel was scented with ginger and spearmint and perfect after a hot day of retail therapy.

Deciding to make the most of the beautiful pool, I pulled on a tiny white bikini and took a book outside. The waterfall splashed gently at one end of the pool and two blackbirds with red wings were sitting on the frame that enclosed the outdoor space. A couple of empty beer bottles sat beside the barbequealong with a half-eaten packet of Lays. I tidied them all away, much to the grievance of a small party of ants.

The loungers were white-and-blue striped, and after a short swim I settled down with my book, glad that I’d managed to fill my day with other things to think about after the shocking start with Steven and Cheryl.

Soon I was immersed in a story about witches in medieval England as they made love potions, avoided being discovered for what they were, and sheltered people in need.

“Good book?”

I was pulled instantly from my story, and startled because I hadn’t heard anyone come in.

Dylan stood there holding a huge bunch of white and pink flowers. Their delicate petals and slender stems were a direct contrast to his huge shoulders and dark stubble—feminine yin to his masculine yang.

“Yes, it is.” I set it to one side. “Good day at practice?”

“Tiring, but yeah, it was what we needed.”

I stood and slipped on thongs. I waited for his gaze to roam down my body, the way people’s usually did. I often wondered if they were searching for a fault, an ounce of fat, an ugly mole, or a crease in my skin. There were none, that’s why I had the job I had.

But he didn’t do that at all, which surprised me. His eye contact remained firmly on mine.

I put my hands on my hips, said nothing, and waited for the heat of his gaze to at least hit my breasts.

“Are you really okay?” He frowned slightly and stepped closer, seeming to search the depths of my eyes.

“Yes, why?”

“Ben said you had an unwanted phone call at breakfast.”

I sighed. “Not the best start to the day, but I’ve put it behind me now.”

He continued to look at my face.

“Really, I’m fine.” I smiled.