by Anna Sugden
Maggie was surprised and pleased. Lee had always complained about the fans’ demands, behaving genially only when the media was there.
Jake grinned as he noticed them standing nearby. His gaze met hers—the unspoken promise in the blue depths made her toes curl.
She licked her lips nervously.
He made his excuses to the crowd and joined them. “Great. You’re here.”
Jake ushered them into the suite, his hand resting against the small of her back. The warmth penetrated her sweater, sensitizing every inch of her body.
Once again, she was surprised. The room was filled with family and friends, rather than celebrities and media. Maggie’s tension eased further as she saw that Jake made sure everyone had plenty to eat and drink, instead of expecting people to fuss over him.
He made it clear that she, too, was supposed to enjoy herself. It had been a long time since she’d been allowed to watch a game she’d attended.
One of the reasons she and Lee had got on well in the early days was that she’d genuinely liked watching sport. Sadly, by the end, all she’d been allowed to do was entertain sponsors in the hospitality suite, occasionally making it to the seats when she was needed for a photo op.
Pushing aside memories that had no place in her head this evening, Maggie wandered to the front of the suite. She looked out over the arena, focusing on the two machines making their way up and down the ice, refreshing the scratched surface.
“They’re called Zambonis, Mummy.”
Turning, she saw Emily had acquired a child-size Ice Cats jersey.
“There’s one for you.” Jake held out a bag, his expression as eager as a schoolboy’s. “It’s got my name and number on it. Hope that’s okay.”
Touched, she smiled. “Thank you. That’s very kind.”
His eyes gleamed with pride as she slipped the large red top over her head. “Perfect.”
“Say cheese.” Tracy snapped photos of them. “Now, one of you and Bad Boy.”
Jake slipped his arm around her waist and pulled her back against his hard body. Even through the layers of clothing, she felt his body heat. His familiar masculine scent surrounded her as his breath teased her temple.
To calm her body’s reaction, Maggie reminded herself of the video clips she’d seen outside. But the only replay in her head was of his wide grin when he’d spotted her. Instead of dampening the fire burning within her, it fanned the flames.
“Can I get you anything?” Jake asked.
“A beer would be nice.” She hoped that the slight throatiness of her words didn’t give away her thoughts.
“Why don’t you grab a seat and I’ll get them.”
She sank into one of the leather seats in the back row as he walked away.
Tracy slipped into the seat beside her. “This suite is amazing.”
Maggie grinned. “I should say that you can’t beat watching a game from the stands, but I can’t deny there’s a different kind of pleasure in watching from a posh box when the seats are this close to the action.”
“I’m glad you’re looking more relaxed. I was worried earlier. I know this is tough for you.” Tracy touched her arm. “Are you sure you’re okay?”
“I’m fine, thanks.” As she probed the automatic reaction, Maggie realized she wasn’t just saying it. She really was. “I’m actually looking forward to the hockey game.”
“Good. You deserve to have fun. Speaking of which—” Tracy jumped to her feet “—your date is back.”
The arena lights dimmed and dramatic music began to play as Jake took the seat Tracy had vacated and handed Maggie a beer. Spotlights flashed and cheers began. In the half-light, he looked every inch the warrior from the video despite his casual attire. This time, it wasn’t fear or dread racing through her veins.
It was anticipation, pure and simple.
“The game’s about to start.” The husky note in his voice made her pulse jump.
He reached for her hand. Their fingers twined together. Her pounding heart kept time with the bass beat of the music.
As the announcer came over the loudspeaker, telling the crowd to stand and show their appreciation for the Ice Cats, Maggie leaned toward Jake and said, “I look forward to seeing what you want to teach me, Bad Boy.”
* * *
JAKE ALMOST SWALLOWED his tongue.
As the arena lights came up, he studied her face. Though her expression seemed innocent, the twinkle in her eyes made him wonder if she’d chosen her words deliberately.
With any other woman, Jake would have assumed the double entendre was an invitation and acted before the end of the first period. With Maggie, he couldn’t be sure. He didn’t want to blow the evening by making a mistake before the game had even begun.
He forced his gaze forward.
Excitement raced through his veins as the Cats took to the ice. Though he still didn’t know how his body would cope with playing in a game, instead of scrimmaging, he was keen to get out onto the ice and play for real.
They stood for the national anthem. Jake used the time to study Maggie surreptitiously. Tight-fitting jeans and black over-the-knee boots showcased her long legs while, beneath her jersey, he knew the red sweater hugged her curves. Her shiny, dark hair spilled enticingly over her shoulders.
A primal satisfaction filled him that she wore his name and number. He wanted no doubt in this testosterone-filled building whose woman she was.
So far, so good. The friendly atmosphere had relaxed her. He looked forward to explaining the game and building her appreciation for hockey. As well as building her appreciation for him.
As the players got ready for the opening face-off, Maggie leaned toward him. “Why are there only six from each team on the ice?”
Her scent, fresh with an enticing hint of spice, almost made him forget the basics of a sport he’d played since he was a kid. He gulped, then explained. She nodded, then turned her attention to the game. A few stray curls brushed his cheek, as soft as a caress. Jake shifted to ease the tightness in his trousers.
The movement brought his knee against hers. He swore silently. Only a minute played and he was hard and aching. How the hell was he going to last one period, let alone three?
When she made no effort to break the contact, he forced himself to relax. As if he could have moved his knee anyway.
“What’s going on here?” She leaned close again.
For a moment, Jake wasn’t sure how to respond. He felt as awkward as a teenager on his first date. Then he realized she was referring to the game. A quick glance showed Larocque headed to the box as the ref announced the penalty.
“Hooking.” He outlined the kid’s mistake and what would happen next.
“The team goes down a man for two minutes?” she exclaimed. “That’s a massive advantage to Carolina.”
“You break the rules in any sport, you have to pay the price. The kid’ll learn his lesson.”
Sure enough, the Hurricanes scored quickly. While they celebrated, JB skated back to the Cats’ bench. He smacked his stick against the boards.
Throughout the period, Maggie’s questions came thick and fast. She was a quick study. As her understanding grew, so did her involvement in the game. Before long, she was cheering the Cats, jeering at the ’Canes and cursing the refs like an old pro.
“What game are you watching?” she yelled after a missed call.
Jake laughed.
Her eyes blazed. “How can you be so blasé? Vlad’s cheek’s cut because that guy was careless with his stick.”
“I’d be mad as hell if the refs had missed a high-sticking call in a game that mattered, for sure. But this is the preseason. A little blood’s nothing to worry about,” he reassured her.
She turned back to the play with a disgusted harr
umph.
Maggie’s reaction sent up a warning flare. If she was pissed about a small cut, how would she react to something worse? The chances of a fight in a preseason game were slim, but he watched time count down with a nervous knot in his gut.
As the last minute of play was announced, the action heated up. The Cats buzzed around Carolina’s net. The pace became intense.
Maggie became intense, too, her concentration focused. She edged closer to him, her arm pressed against his.
Jake’s pulse began to pound.
Sticks clashed. Blades scraped. Players shouted.
Her fingers curved into his arm, her touch searing him.
The puck slammed into the boards.
His heart slammed against his ribs.
Ten seconds and nine...
Her grip tightened.
His groin tightened.
Two seconds and one...
The blaring horn jolted Jake’s mind out of its cloudy haze.
“What a shame they didn’t score. Is that halftime?” Maggie’s cheeks were flushed, her eyes bright.
“It’s the first intermission. We play three periods.”
“Of course.”
People around them got food and replenished drinks.
“What do you think so far?” he asked, hoping the bulge in his pants wasn’t obvious.
“It’s fast paced and exciting. Lots of action, but still quite easy to follow.”
All right! “Sounds like you’re hooked,” he said as they rose to get refreshments.
“It’s entertaining, but I don’t know if I’m a full-fledged fan.”
Given how she rushed them back to their seats as the second period was announced, he figured she was kidding herself.
Gradually, Jake began to relax and focus on the game. The only thing missing was an Ice Cats goal. He’d bet Maggie would celebrate enthusiastically.
Sure enough, when Larocque banged in a scorcher from the blue line near the end of the second period, she leaped to her feet, cheering.
Their gazes locked. She moved half a step closer, as if to hug him.
His body tensed, anticipating the feel of her against him. Wanting it.
Instead, she raised her palm for a high-five.
He’d have been disappointed but for the heat smoldering in her eyes.
Jake willed the Cats to score again.
Unfortunately, the period ended with the guys down by one.
Maggie spent most of the second intermission bemoaning missed chances. She was incensed by another blown call on a cheap shot late in the period.
“That bloke smashed Juergen into the boards from behind. That can’t be legal.”
“It isn’t.” His stomach roiled. He had to tell her about the repercussion that was coming.
“I was amazed Juergen got straight up. You must be black-and-blue after every game.”
“Maggie. There’s something you should know.”
She turned to him, curious.
Just spit it out. “There’ll be a fight next period.”
Her expression cooled. “Is this part of that Code?”
He nodded. “The guy who hit Juergen has to know we won’t stand for dirty plays.”
“If the referee had been watching properly, there wouldn’t need to be a fight.”
Jake sighed. “Yeah, there would. To tell the opposition we’ll defend our players.”
“That’s vigilante justice.” She crossed her arms.
Anger rose as she dismissed his explanation. His sport. “It keeps the game clean and prevents injuries.”
“They get injured by fighting instead. That’s sensible.” Her lip curled.
“Better than breaking some guy’s neck.”
The announcement for the third period drowned out her muttered reply.
When they took their seats, Maggie held herself stiffly. No chance of accidental contact.
She was probably the only person in the arena not to stand and cheer the fight. As the Cats’ player downed his opponent with a well-placed punch, she looked disgusted.
Damn it.
From there, the game and his evening went downhill. Two more Ice Cats penalties led to two more Carolina goals. As time wound down, it was clear they couldn’t recoup the loss.
Maggie seemed to lose interest and kept looking at her watch.
Any ground he’d gained tonight had vanished. He’d gambled and lost.
* * *
THE HORN SOUNDED for the end of the game.
As the Ice Cats headed off the ice, Maggie reflected on the third period. Stupid macho men with their stupid macho codes.
Around her, people gathered their things. The Badolettis put on their coats. Emily begged Tracy for a trip to the souvenir booth.
Jake sat silently beside her, lost in his own thoughts. She knew her reaction to the fight had disappointed him.
Tough. She was entitled to her opinion and was damned if she’d be scared of voicing it because she was worried about upsetting him. He’d have to deal with it if he wanted to spend time with her. And if he didn’t...? She didn’t let the unsettling thought form.
Not wanting the evening to end on a bad note, she said, “I enjoyed the game, Jake. Thanks for inviting me.”
Surprise mingled with doubt in his blue eyes.
She leaned closer. “I’m glad I came.”
“You don’t have to say that for my sake.”
She smiled at his stiff tone. For a tough guy, he had a tendency to pout.
“I’m not. I didn’t like the fight, but the rest was fun. Emily loved it.”
“Yeah? Good.” Jake’s grin sent flashes of heat skipping through her body. How could a simple curve of those lips be so wicked?
“Mummy, look what Auntie Tracy bought for me.” Emily rushed toward them waving a stuffed black-and-white cat in a red Ice Cats jersey. “This is Catty and he has a top like mine.” She frowned. “Catty doesn’t have Mr. Jake’s name on his.”
“I could write my name on the back with my Sharpie,” Jake offered.
“Yes, please.” Her daughter handed over the cat.
Maggie knew Jake hadn’t thought about the logistics of his offer when he looked up with panic in his eyes.
“Problem?” She bit back a grin.
“Badoletti is a long name.”
“And that is a small jersey.”
It warmed her heart to see Jake, who was unfazed by players slamming his body into Plexiglas, scared of disappointing her little girl.
“You could write Bad above the number and Boy below.”
Emily cheered as Jake did what Maggie suggested, then yawned.
“Time to go,” Maggie said reluctantly.
“Why don’t I take Emily home?” Tracy offered. “You hang out here a bit longer.”
“I can give you a ride home,” Jake added.
Loath to end the evening, Maggie’s pulse leaped at the thought of spending more time with Jake. “Don’t you have to join the team?”
“Come with me. The boys go to a local Tex-Mex place, which is pretty good.”
One arched look from her sister was enough. “Sounds great.”
After a flurry of goodbyes, silence fell in the empty suite. The muffled sounds of the cleanup crew came from the hallway outside, along with a clattering from the ice where a basketball court was being laid for the following day.
It felt as if they were cocooned in this room.
Jake held her jacket so she could put it on. He didn’t remove his hands right away. The warm weight on her shoulders was comforting and a little thrilling.
“We should go.” That husky note was back in his voice.
His breath cares
sed the back of her neck, sending a shiver of pleasure through her.
“Okay.” She nodded, but didn’t move.
Slowly, Jake turned her to face him.
Her heart started thumping heavily. How could ice-blue burn with such a heated blaze?
The lights in the suite dimmed, startling her.
“Energy-saving timers,” Jake murmured, never shifting his gaze from hers.
“Uh-huh.” Maggie inched a little closer, tilting her chin. “Good idea.”
“Definitely.” His mouth covered hers.
Lightning flashed through her as his tongue parted her lips and swept inside.
She met him stroke for stroke, lick for lick. Nibble for nibble.
Jake tasted as wicked and dangerous as he looked. His dark, delicious flavor was addictive. Her pulse pounded. Desire pooled deep within her core.
His hands slipped from her shoulders to her hips, pulling her flush against him from thigh to chest. Heat seared her sensitized skin through the layers of clothing. His hardness pressed against her.
She wanted more.
Her fingertips traced his jaw, slid into his hair then down his neck. As their tongues danced, her knees began to tingle.
His hands stroked the small of her back, the curve of her bottom. His fingers gripped her hips, drawing her tight against his erection. She couldn’t help but rub herself against him.
Holding on to his broad shoulders, Maggie allowed herself to be swept away in a maelstrom of sensations.
Cold air at the small of her back, where her sweater had parted from her jeans, brought her out of the haze of desire. She took a moment to savor the fiery caress of Jake’s fingers against her bare skin, then slowly broke the kiss.
Jake didn’t lift his head right away. He pressed light kisses along her lips, lingering a little less with each one, until the last was the barest of touches.
A tinny tune echoed through the silent suite.
“Damn it.” Keeping one arm around her, Jake reached behind him with his spare hand for his cell phone. “What?”
“Am I interrupting?” she heard Tru tease.
Jake growled, “Yes. What’s up?”
