Puck Battles: A Complete Sports Romance Series

by Kristen Echo

  Beth painted on a smile. “Morning, Crystal. It’s all yours,” she said to the woman with the raspy voice. They had a few classes together but hadn’t become close friends. Most of the girls were into partying, but all she wanted to do was study and pass.

  Crystal’s pale blue eyes brightened. “Hey, Beth, you’re just the lady I wanted to see.” She adjusted the towel around her torso.

  “Why is that?” Her toes curled in her flip flops, ready to make a run for it.

  “A couple of us are planning a kegger for next week. We’d love for you and Carly to invite some single hockey players.” She twirled a lock of blonde hair around her finger. “A welcome party for the new guy.”

  The idea of getting drunk and watching women throw themselves at her ex sounded like as much fun as a yeast infection. She felt itchy already. “I can’t promise anything, but I can pass along the invite.” She stepped past Crystal and surveyed the bags under her eyes in the mirror. Her complexion was pale and blemish free. Men complimented her often on her fair skin. She was fortunate she didn’t usually need a lot of makeup.

  “Awesome. I’ll send you the deats once they’re finalized,” Crystal said, closing the curtain in the shower stall Beth had recently vacated.

  His being in town and her having to think about him was the opposite of awesome. She quickly finished getting ready and raced back to her room. Brooding over the situation was a waste of time. She opened her text books, laptop and set out to finish her paper. The following week was reading week, and she had lots to accomplish before the week off from classes.

  The hours blended into one another, but she found it difficult to focus. When she finally closed her laptop, she felt antsy. The sub-zero temperatures couldn’t stop her from running. Pounding the pavements was Beth’s way of letting off steam. It was the one place she could clear her mind, usually. This time, no matter how far she pushed herself, Benny stayed in the forefront of her thoughts.

  Each mile brought her closer to exhaustion, but the more she thought of Benny, the more she wanted answers. She deserved to know what the hell happened. She had no specific destination in mind. The miles racked up, and she noticed she was close to Joe’s condo. When she opened the door, she was soaked with sweat and freezing cold. She took the stairs two at a time and then knocked on Joe’s door. A few doors down, a door opened, shedding light into the darkened area.

  He opened the door wearing a towel around his hips, and an ear to ear grin. “I thought our date didn’t start until five.” He leaned against the doorframe with one arm over his head in a pose meant to seduce. “Visions of me naked were too much to resist, eh?” His voice carried down the empty hall.

  She burst out laughing. This was exactly where she needed to be. With a man who could make her laugh despite her inner turmoil. “I can’t believe you’re still naked!” Her voice echoed. “Move out of the way and let me in, before your neighbors walk by and charge you with indecency.”

  “That happens to be my middle name, baby.” He grabbed her hand, pulling her in.

  She yelped. Her smile now matched his.

  The door slammed behind her. She walked into his living room and sat down on his couch, clutching her backpack to her chest. They couldn’t have a serious conversation with him half-naked. “Can you get dressed?”

  “Are you sure you want me to do that? You could take your clothes off instead.” He raised a brow, placing his hands on his hips. The towel opened on the side, revealing more of his thigh.

  She averted her eyes. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to use your shower. I went for a run and ended up here.”

  “It’s sweet you’re eager to see me.” Joe sniffed the surrounding air. “Baby, you stink. Go take that shower.”

  She couldn’t help but laugh. “So, you’re not turned on by my womanly scent?” Beth stood and walked past him on the way to his bathroom. “Don’t answer that because I don’t really want to know. Is the bathroom free or will I be battling one of your lady friends for the hot water?”

  He plopped down on the couch. “It’s all yours. They took off an hour ago. There’s no one here but you and me.” His Adam’s apple bobbed as he spoke. “Towels are in the linen closet. If you need help with anything, like someone to wash your back or between your legs, you let me know.”

  “Thanks, Joe.” She smiled over her shoulder at him. “But, I’m sure I can manage.”

  His towels were plush like fluffy white clouds; she grabbed two. Beth locked the bathroom door before peeling off her workout clothes. The water reached the perfect temperature within seconds. She soaked up the tranquility and allowed the heat to penetrate every inch of her. As much as she wanted to linger under the jets, she couldn’t hide in there forever.

  Beth let her hair dry naturally. She twisted the excess water out and scrunched the ends, going for the casual surfer style. The jet-black waves hung past her shoulders. In her haste to get out of the dorms, she’d forgotten to pack extra clothes. Her sports bra and workout clothes were still damp and smelled of sweat. She stuffed them into her running bag. With a towel wrapped around her torso, she walked out of the bathroom. Joe’s condo had an open concept and the living room was visible from the hall.

  “Joe, can I borrow some clothes?” Looking down the hall, she noticed two pairs of eyes on her. She smiled bashfully, knowing her state of undress. Heat traveled across her exposed skin as Benny stared at her. Those damn butterflies fluttered around her stomach again. Her pulse picked up speed as she drank him in. He looked sexier than ever in a tight green t-shirt and ripped jeans. The muscles in his arms bulged as he clenched his fists. She did the same. “I didn’t realize we had company. Sorry.”

  Her gaze moved to Joe, who hadn’t dressed yet either. She could only imagine what their visitor thought; what conclusions he’d draw from their attire. It shouldn’t matter what he thought, but her lip quivered to set the record straight. She turned around, heading towards Joe’s bedroom as fast as her feet would carry her. He didn’t deserve an explanation or another minute of her time.

  “Take what you want. But you don’t need clothes, baby. I’ll get rid of our unwanted guest and meet you in there,” Joe yelled since she’d already closed the door behind her.

  Through the door, she heard them talking, but couldn’t make out their words. Seeing Benny twice in two days was the worst kind of luck. Still, she wanted to know why he was there. She rummaged through Joe’s closet until she found his summer stash. Her pulse raced and her palms were sweating as she yanked a navy-blue tank top from the drawer. It fit loosely which was good considering she didn’t have a bra. They weren’t remotely close to the same size, but she couldn’t walk out there without panties. She pulled on a pair of his boxers and was thankful the shirt hung past them on her thighs. She hurried back into the hall.

  Benny hadn’t left. He sat on the couch with his arms crossed over his broad chest. Under that clover green shirt, directly over his heart was a hockey stick with an important date inked into his skin. She’d kissed, licked and touched every inch of his body. A ripple of awareness shot directly between her legs, slowing her progress.

  “I’m not the welcome wagon,” Joe said, sitting opposite Benny. His fingers moved across his phone as he spoke.

  Benny smiled when he saw her approach. “Seeing as you’re my neighbor, I figured this was the perfect place to start.”

  Her breath hitched. Neighbor? “Um… start what? Why are you here?”

  Joe patted the couch cushion beside him. “Hey baby, come sit with me. I’ve got news which you may or may not like.”

  “What’s up?” She sat next to him, but her eyes stayed locked onto her ex.

  Joe kept typing on his phone. “It looks like we’ve got an extra mouth to feed for dinner.”

  “Him?” Her hand shook as she pointed at Benny. Joe nodded and her heart skipped a beat. “I guess we could have one more,” she responded, though she didn’t think it was a good idea.

  Joe leaned ove
r and kissed her. His lips grazed hers for only a moment, but it was enough for her to shrink away from him. Shit! This was not happening. Without waiting for a response, Benny left the condo.

  “What just happened?” Beth stared at the door.

  “We’re having company. It’s not a big deal. He just moved here and doesn’t know many people yet. You look paler than usual, baby. Is everything okay?”

  No! She wanted to yell but chewed her lip. She’d planned to come over to apologize for leaving the reception and explain that she couldn’t date him. That wouldn’t happen with Benny sitting next to her. All she thought about was what she’d done wrong to infuriate fate. There’s no way she was sticking around to spend an evening with Benny. She was liable to either tear him to shreds or jump his bones. Both options held a massive amount of appeal.

  “I’m fine,” she lied. “However, I can’t stay. I’ve got studying to do.”

  “Oh no you don’t. I’m not letting you bail on me two nights in a row. The groceries were delivered while you were in the shower. You promised to cook and you know how I love to eat,” Joe said, patting his washboard abs.

  She cracked a smile. “It’s a good thing you burn off a gazillion calories playing hockey.”

  “There’s another great way I like to burn off—”

  “Go get dressed. Do you think he’s coming back?”

  He stood and smiled. “Can do. The way he charged in here earlier and refused to leave. Yeah, I can guarantee he’ll be back. I’m glad you’re here, Beth. Oh hey, wasn’t there something you wanted to talk about?”

  Her courage vanished like a mirage in the desert. A knock at the door, took the final wind from her sails. “It can wait.” This would be a long night.

  Joe leaned down and kissed her forehead. “I’ll let him in and then put on some clothes. Make yourself at home.”

  This wasn’t her first time at his place, but this was the first time she didn’t want to be there. Joe shook his towel covered ass as he opened the door, making her laugh despite who lingered behind it. Benny walked in, carrying two bottles of wine in his hands. He handed them over.

  Joe eyed the bottles, seeming impressed. “Nice vintage, but it will take more than that to butter me up, Wilder. Help yourself to anything you want. I’ll be back in a second.”

  “You’re welcome,” Benny said, approaching her. His swagger was every bit as impressive as the first time she’d seen it. He moved with purpose and confidence.

  She couldn’t speak because watching him glide towards her took her breath away. He controlled the room with every step. Both men had a confidence she found alluring. Joe put the bottles on the counter and retreated to his bedroom.

  “Hello Elizabeth,” Benny said, standing in front of her.

  The moment the door closed, she scowled at her ex. “Let me be clear, I don’t want you calling me, and I don’t want you here. We have nothing to say to each other.”

  He laughed, sitting next to her on the couch. His leg pressed against hers. “I disagree. We have lots to discuss.” He faced her, and his eyes sucked her in causing her nipples to harden.

  Why did he still turn her on? A chemical reaction she was powerless to stop. His laugh, his smile all evoked wet panties. At this rate, she wouldn’t make it past dinner without chaffed thighs. She clenched her knees so tightly they ached. If he didn’t leave soon she was at risk of doing something she’d regret. Like jumping on his lap and kissing him.

  “I’ve rehearsed this moment more times than I should admit.” He exhaled audibly. His fresh mint breath wafted her way. “But I’ve got you in front of me, and I’m at a loss. I’m not sure where to start except to say I made a huge mistake.”

  “Please don’t do this now. Not here,” she begged. Her eyes drifted down to her lap.

  “When?” He tilted her chin, so their eyes connected again. “We need to talk.”

  “I don’t know, but not now.” She pulled his hand from her face.

  “What are you two talking about?” Joe sauntered into the room. He dressed casual in jeans and a golf shit. “Whatever it is, it looks intense.”

  “Nothing important. Benny was leaving,” she said, tapping her bare foot against the hardwood floor.

  He laughed. “You’re funny, Elizabeth. I’m not going anywhere. In fact, you will see a lot of me from now on.” His hand landed on her knee.

  She let out an exasperated sigh, pushing his hand away. “Lucky me.”

  Joe raised a brow at their banter. “I obviously missed something. Before you fill me in, we need wine. Am I right?”

  “Yes,” they both replied in unison.

  Joe stepped up to the kitchen island and opened a bottle. They joined him as he poured the contents into three glasses and handed them out. They clanked glasses. “Here’s to relationships.” He took a large swallow, and she did the same.

  “To new beginnings,” Benny added, invading her personal space. His arm brushed against hers and she didn’t shy away.

  She put her glass down on the counter and inhaled. That was a mistake. His aroma was more mouth-watering than the wine. Her body leaned closer to his, seeking more. She had to be stronger. She lifted the glass to her lips and swallowed another mouthful. “To making it through the night in one piece.”

  Chapter 6

  The wine slipped down her throat, but she barely registered the flavors. His nearness wreaked havoc on her ability to do basic things like talk or breathe. His scent brought back so many erotic memories. The way his large frame pressed her into the mattress as he’d pushed his way inside. She’d loved the weight of him on top of her as he’d owned and worshiped her. Her cheeks heated and her breathing became shallow.

  Benny seemed to delight in her response. “You’re not the only one who remembers.” He leaned in closer until she thought her heart might beat right out of her chest. Stupid heart.

  She planted her nose in the glass and inhaled, hoping to drown him out. It worked. “Um… You boys go sit down while I make dinner.” At least she’d be able to hide in the kitchen; away from him.

  “I was kidding earlier about you cooking. Lasagna is in the oven. The only thing left to do is toss the garlic bread in a few minutes before we eat. It will be ready within the hour. Let’s sit and chat.”

  She painted on a smile and clung to her glass. They needed a neutral topic. Hockey worked. Defensive strategies dominated the conversation for the next hour. She sat back and watched the men banter. If she wasn’t trying hard to ignore and hate Benny, she’d have to admit to having a good time. The pins and needles subsided though she wasn’t able to relax fully because her hormones were firing on all cylinders.

  They sat at the island to eat. Sandwiched between two dreamboats wasn’t anyone’s nightmare, except hers. Both men found reasons to touch her, and she yelped more than once. As they ate their meal, she counted down the minutes until she could politely excuse herself.

  “Where did Martin and Sylvie disappear to last night? I saw them at the ceremony, but not at the reception,” she said before taking a sip from her third glass of wine. It had definitely taken the edge off.

  The team’s goalie had been flirting with her for months, not that she’d ever acted on his advances. He looked like a model with hair like Elvis, but she’d had enough of goalies to last a lifetime. They differed from other hockey players. Carried more on their shoulders than they should and they oozed confidence. It was part of their appeal. Martin’s friend Sylvie had a similar confidence she envied. They were close to the same age, but Sylvie had already accomplished so much. She took another sip. Soon, she’d need a refill.

  “They eloped,” Joe answered flatly.

  She nearly spat her wine out. “What? No way!” Beth put down the glass.

  “Tell me about it. He married my dream girl right out from under my fingers. No offense to you, Beth.”

  “None taken. I wouldn’t marry you either, baby,” she finished with a sweet twang.

  “Damn rig
ht you won’t,” Benny chimed in.

  Joe laughed, and the tension in the room lightened, or the wine had kicked in. Either way she liked how Joe never let things get too serious.

  She ignored Benny’s outburst. “I like Sylvie, and I’m happy for them. Carly thinks she’s amazing, and that girl is hard to please.”

  “Not from what Theo says. It sounds like he pleases her rather easily.”

  She slapped his arm. “Bite your tongue, Joe Larson. Theo better not be talking smack about my—”

  “Don’t get your panties in a bunch. Theo’s so in love with your roommate that the woman shits rainbows as far as he’s concerned. I hope my balls never end up in a vice like his.”

  Benny leaned forward with his elbows on the counter. His eyes fixed on her. “One day, you’ll meet a woman who takes your breath away. It won’t feel like your dicks on a leash because you handed her the reins. You’ll do anything to make her smile.”

  “Sounds like some chick has you whipped,” Joe said, ripping another piece of bread from the loaf. “Don’t fucking tell me you’re a goner too? When you said you moved here alone, I assumed you were single. What’s your deal?”

  “Yeah, what’s your deal?” Beth repeated, pushing her half-eaten plate of food away.

  “I’m single but my heart has been taken for a long time. There’s only one woman I’m interested in. I’ll spend the rest of my life loving Elizabeth. Only, I have to convince her to give me another chance.”

  Joe’s eyes bounced between them. “Elizabeth, as in Beth?”

  Her head felt ready to explode. Her heart and body soaked in his words and swooned. How dare he spew his lies in front of Joe. “You don’t deserve another chance.”

  “Ouch! Dude, you’ve rubbed her the wrong way. I’ve never seen your claws come out. It’s kinda sexy,” Joe said, sliding closer to her. “Want me to kick him out so we can get naked?”