The Closer (All About the Diamond #5)

by Naomi Springthorp

“I was talking to you.”

  “Sorry, not sure where my brain was,” Lies, you have a fine ass.

  He shakes his head, “I have to go to the stadium. I’ll text you in a bit with your ticket information. You’re welcome to use the jacuzzi tub in my bathroom. Eat whatever you want. Text me if you need anything. I’m texting you additional contact info in case it’s an emergency, I don’t always have my phone on me. Game starts at 7:05pm tonight.”

  Text from Super D - shared contact Carter

  Text from Super D - Carter is the Clubhouse Manager. He can find me if you can’t get me for some reason.

  “See you tonight. Hope you enjoy the game.” He turns to walk out and stops, “Hey, do you want to go out for a late dinner after the game tonight or maybe dessert?”

  I smile, “Dessert sounds delicious.”

  He nods and steps onto the elevator.

  Dessert could be interesting. He means ice cream or something, but my mind is going now.

  Chapter Three

  Houck

  I walk into the clubhouse and find Carter, “Hey, can you put my friend, Angie, on the early entry list? I need tickets for this weekend’s games for her, too.”

  Seno walking by hears me talking to Carter, “Angie? Isn’t she the one you told me about?”

  “Yep.” He high-fives me. “Nope, she’s visiting for a few days. Showed up last night and she hasn’t told me why. I’m not complaining.”

  Carter interjects, “Where do you want her to sit?”

  “Best seat you’ve got.”

  Seno adds, “Put her next to Sherry, so she’s not by herself.”

  “Works for me,” Houck agrees. “Can you get her a jersey and cap, too?”

  “Sure, with Houck on them?”

  “Yeah, I guess.”

  “You don’t want her to wear your name?” Seno questions me.

  I chuckle, aware how this is going to sound, “She calls me Super D.” They both stare at me waiting for more. “She never thought Doug was a good enough name for me. Originally it was Super Doug, but you know how nicknames change.”

  “Super D it is. Any idea what size?”

  “Misses jersey size medium. Can you charge anything she wants at the stadium to my account? I don’t want her paying for anything. I want her to feel special. And, can you deliver everything to her at my place? She’s not a fan of surprises.”

  Carter willingly goes along with it, “No problem. Easy enough since you live across the street.”

  “Thanks.”

  Text to Angie - Carter is going to deliver your tickets to you at my place. He has a key. He’s a short bald man.

  Text to Angie - Batting Practice is at 4pm. You’re on the early entry list if you want to come watch.

  Text from Angie - I’d love to!

  Text from Angie - Going to try out your jacuzzi tub. I’ll be at the stadium later.

  And now I’m imagining her naked in my tub. I want to be naked in my tub with her.

  Angie

  When he said jacuzzi tub I pictured a tub with jets, not a jacuzzi fit for four grown adults. I could swim in this thing. I turn the water on, and let it start filling up while I get a change of clothes and grab a magazine from his coffee table. He’s got music set up to pipe throughout his condo, I hit shuffle and go for luck. The sound of guitar strings and “Angela” by the Lumineers fills the room. I walk into his bathroom and strip naked, setting my phone and the magazine to the side while I climb into the tub. The jets blowing against me and the hot water are a perfect combination. Relaxing. I bet he uses the jacuzzi. We could both fit in the jacuzzi together with no problem. Maybe we can skinny dip in the jacuzzi together later. It would be better than dessert, or maybe it could be dessert. It would definitely melt the ice. Who am I kidding? That’s not what I want. It is what I want, but not quick. For now, I’ll soak here and daydream about the possibilities. Would he hold me in his lap and kiss me? Would he take control and splash water all over his bathroom while he takes me, claiming me as his? Maybe he’s not a do it in the jacuzzi kind of guy. Maybe some warming up naked together, making out, hot heavy…

  He walks in and finds me in his tub, jets on and water up to my neck. I’m relaxing and my eyes are closed. My hair tied up in a loose bun on top of my head. He pulls his shirt off, showing me his bare chest and abs. He turns around and drops his pants going commando, showing me his magnificent ass. He climbs in with me, sitting across from me with his feet stretched out at my sides. His hands out of sight under the water, reaching for me and caressing my leg. I go to him and his eyes search mine, finding what he wants his smile brightens and he pulls me down to him. Our lips meeting for the first time. Why didn’t we kiss before? The heat between us is instantaneous, but we aren’t ready for more. We pull back and smile at each other happily, both of us wanting each other for the first time. Holding each other is more than I ever dreamed would happen, but this is more. This is a need to be close to each other, explore each other, finally not worry if the other is interested and simply be together. His arm is holding me to him and his hand is at the back of my head. My arms are around his neck with one hand climbing up into his short brown hair and massaging his head. His other head is against my leg, but I’m not ready for him. I don’t want to miss this new stage of us. We kiss sweetly, turning more heated with each passing second. He licks my lip and I open my mouth for him, kissing him deeply. Wanting more, but trying to hold back. He holds me close to him and keeps kissing me, not anything more. Simply holding my naked body against his and worshiping my lips. Why did I wait for this? Is he what I’ve been waiting for? He’s been right here all along. He’s all man and he’s been waiting to be mine.

  I hear a noise and I’m pulled from my daydream.

  “Hello? It’s Carter.”

  “Sorry, in the tub.”

  “No problem. I’m leaving tickets for all the games this weekend, a temporary access card so you can get in early, and a present from Houck on the kitchen island.”

  “Thank you.”

  “Enjoy your bath.”

  The elevator door closes and I listen to make sure he’s gone. I get out of the tub and wrap a towel around my body, anxious to find what he left for me. I go to the kitchen and the first thing I see is a jersey with his number 18 and the name Super D. I get closer and find a matching cap. The jersey is even the right size. I open the envelope Carter left on the counter and find a note:

  Angie,

  Here are your tickets to this weekend’s games. Use the card to get in early and to pay for anything you want while you’re at the stadium. For early entry, use the VIP entrance near the home plate gate. Batting Practice is at 4pm. You can sit in your assigned seat for BP or anywhere you’d like on the field level, I suggest behind the Seals dugout.

  Go Seals!

  Carter

  I’m standing in the kitchen, wearing only a towel when the door opens again. I’ve got to get used to this penthouse elevator. I consider running for it, but there’s no time.

  Houck

  She’s naked in my kitchen. She has a towel wrapped around her and it could fall off at any time. I’ve dreamt about having her in my kitchen in many different ways. She’s always barefoot and naked, though I’ve never actually seen her naked. Her hair, piled on top of her head, leaves her neck and shoulders exposed. I’m staring at her and I can’t take my eyes off her. I need to say something. Every second that passes makes me more of a creep. Then again, she’s the one naked in my kitchen. “Hi, just want to check on you and make sure you have everything you need.” How about me? Do you need me? I want you.

  “I’m good.” She steps from around the island and I can see the slit of the towel up to the top of her thigh. “Thanks for the jersey.”

  “You look good,” I can’t take my eyes off of her. She’s better than good, she’s stunning. “You’re welcome.” I fidget nervously. I want to reach for her and hold her, but I need to get back to the stadium. We’re not that kind of frie
nds. We’ve always been friends, nothing more. I’ve always wanted it to be more. Why didn’t I kiss her thirteen years ago?

  “Thanks,” I swear she blushes.

  I turn away quickly, “I have to get back. See you at the stadium.” The elevator door couldn’t close quick enough. I need to get out of here before I do something I shouldn’t.

  Angie

  I get ready for the game, putting a low-cut snug-fitting tank on under my jersey. I button the lower buttons on the jersey and leave the top open. It’s cute with my matching bikini panties and I consider taking a pic for future use, or maybe to send to D now. Too much for an ice-breaker? Probably. He was surprised and uncomfortable seeing me in a towel. I slide into my skinny jeans and put my sneakers on. I let my hair down and brush it out, trying the cap to figure out how I want to wear it. I leave my hair down and put the cap over it.

  I’m anxious to see BP. He probably won’t hit. Why would he? He’s the closer. Still, it’s nice for him to get me in early. I toss the envelope Carter left for me and the extra keys to D’s place in my bag and walk over to the stadium. The stadium is easy. Everyone treats me like I’m a queen when I flash the card Carter gave me. The stadium is empty, except for workers prepping food and cleaning. There are only a few people in the stands and some men in team polos on the concourse. A couple players are on the field throwing the ball. There’s one woman sitting behind the Seals dugout, and not another single butt in a seat. I follow her lead and sit a few seats away from her. She’s focused on one player, I’m guessing it’s her husband because she’s noticeably pregnant.

  “Hi, you must be Angie,” a short bald man startles me. “I’m Carter.”

  “Nice to meet you. Thanks for setting this up for me.”

  “This is all Houck. I wanted to introduce you to Sherry, since your seat is near hers all weekend and she knows the drill on everything.”

  The pregnant woman turns briefly, “Hi, nice to meet you.” Then back to watching BP, obviously taking it seriously. “Looking good, Seno!” She calls out. One of the players grins at her happily.

  “I’ll leave you two to get to know each other. Let me know if you need anything,” Carter excuses himself.

  It’s refreshing to see two people who are meant for each other, have found each other. Their connection is clear, even with the distance between them. My heart warms at the thought and my mind wanders, are D and I meant to be together?

  “There’s your guy,” Sherry points to Houck as he walks out onto the field.

  “He’s not my guy. We’re friends,” and I wonder why I point it out when I wish he was my guy. Or, maybe, want to find out if he’s supposed to be my guy.

  She turns and focuses on me, taking her eyes off the field. “Sorry, I shouldn’t have assumed.”

  “It’s okay. I’ve wondered what it would be like if he was.”

  “What’s stopping you?”

  “I don’t want to mess up our friendship, but I’m here to find out if it’s worth the friendship risk and if there are any signs he’s interested.”

  “Does he know?”

  “He doesn’t know why I’m here. I hopped a flight to San Diego and called him when I landed.”

  Sherry yells at the field, “Seno!” and waves him over.

  He comes up to the stands and puts his arms around her after his next turn at bat, “Is everything okay, my queen?”

  She smiles like her world is complete, “I’m fine, wanted you to meet Houck’s friend. This is Angie.”

  He shakes my hand, “Nice to finally meet you. I’ve heard a lot about you.”

  “Why would you hear about me?” I laugh.

  His eyes widen, “It was all positive. I have to get back.” He kisses Sherry on the cheek and runs back to the field quickly, not wanting to elaborate.

  Sherry turns back to watch BP, “There’s your sign. These guys don’t talk about ‘friends’ enough for their teammates to know who they are.”

  Seno yells to the outfield, but I can’t understand what he says. He points at me. D shakes him off. He yells again, loud and clear this time, “Never shake off your catcher. I call the game.” D shakes his head, irritated and runs toward Seno. I watch their conversation, but can’t make out the details. Seno hands D a bat and puts a helmet on his head with a big grin on his face. D complains and curses him out. “Shut up and trust me. Hit the fucking ball!” Carter’s behind home plate chuckling and a couple of the other players are chiming in on the situation. D walks up to bat awkwardly and uncomfortable with a bat in his hands. Banter around the backstop continues, a combination of jibes and encouragement.

  The first ball, he swings and hits the ball up the third base line. I call out, “Wooo wooo, go D!”

  His stance changes, he’s more comfortable. The second ball, and he swings like he means it, but misses the ball completely. I hear him cursing from my seat. The third ball, and he smacks it out of the park. I stand up and cheer, “Yeah! Go Super D!”

  “Isn’t it fun to cheer when your guy does something?” Sherry grins. “He may not be your guy yet, but he’s your guy.”

  Fourth ball and he hits another home run. I cheer for him again and get more enthusiastic, remembering my cheerleading days. I know how to turn on the pep and root for my guy. My guy? We’ll revisit that later. Fifth ball and he hits it to the outfield wall, disturbing the guys standing out there doing nothing. His turn is over and he goes back to Seno who points at me. D shakes his head and gazes up at me in the stands. His smile is brighter the longer he’s focused on me. He runs up to my seat, “The team is picking on me because I have a hot blonde visitor and I hadn’t come up to say hi yet.”

  “Maybe you should hook me up.” I say laughing and his expression changes. I test the water further, “Which one said I’m a hot blonde?”

  He leans in to my ear and whispers, “Me.” He kisses my cheek the same way he did last night when he picked me up at the airport, more than a peck on the cheek and runs back to the field.

  Me? He considers me a hot blonde? Did I hear him correctly? “Is there a player on the team with a name that sounds like ‘me’?” I ask Sherry.

  She rolls her eyes at me, “I told you he’s your guy.”

  “What if he’s not? What if I test the theory and it all goes to shit? What if it ends our friendship?”

  “What do you mean? Test the theory? This is love, nothing scientific about it.”

  Love? I hadn’t even considered love. I guess its part of being the one. You know, those stupid pre-marital classes should be more specific about things. “D said he knows who the one for him is, but she isn’t interested. He said he hasn’t kissed her or held her all night, he hasn’t tested the theory.” My brain is still stuck on ‘love’ while I rattle off the words. “You look happy with your man. You love him?”

  Sherry giggles, “I am and very much. I didn’t know this connection was possible until I met Rick. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

  “I’ve never done the love thing.”

  “You don’t choose love. It finds you. When it finds you, you don’t have a choice.”

  BP is over and Seno runs up in time to hear Sherry say those words. “And, I’m glad it did.” He lifts her off her feet and kisses her. He leans his forehead to hers without putting her down, “How’s Baby Seno treating you today?”

  “Baby cheers when I cheer and I approve of the behavior,” her happiness is overflowing.

  He hugs her and sets her on her feet. They both palm her belly and make eye contact. “I love you, my queen. Don’t over do it. I’ll meet you at the car after the game.”

  “Make it a win!” She tells him and he takes off for the dug out.

  Their interaction gives me hope. “Are you for real? Your whole demeanor changes and you smile bigger in his presence.”

  “What do you think you did when Houck was here to say hi?”

  I gasp internally. “There’s no way.”

  “You did. He did, too.”
r />   “Are you telling me to test the theory?”

  “Finally, you’re catching on. Have you considered you might be the one who isn’t interested in? Then again, what if you’re not. Maybe he needs to know you’re an option.” She stops, “Now, I need to watch BP for the other team and report in. We’re winning this season and it’s one of the ways I contribute.”

  I sit quietly and watch the rest of BP. Honestly, I can’t tell you a thing about BP. My head is reeling at the thought of being with D. Taking a chance. The possibility of love. What’s the first step? Luckily I have the whole baseball game to figure it out. 48 outs and hopefully he’ll come in to close. I’d love to watch him pitch and get the save.

  Houck

  Why did I tell her she’s a hot blonde? Whispering in her ear and kissing her inappropriately on the cheek again? Having her here makes it hard to control myself. The text messages and phone calls at all hours are one thing. It doesn’t matter if I had a girlfriend or not, I’ve always been able to be there for her whenever she wanted me. I always found a way to get away for Angie. A phone call from Angie was more important than anything with any other girl. That’s bad, but it’s true. I guess they’ve all been placeholders. Maybe the last one was right, maybe I didn’t care. Maybe I didn’t care about any of them. Having Angie here makes them all seem insignificant. Shit. I never got any of them in for early BP. I’d get them a ticket to the game if they asked, but never anywhere special. With Angie, everything needs to be the best and I want her to have everything she wants.

  Seno and Carter walk up to me, Carter starts, “Anything else I can help you with for Angie?”

  “Yeah, can you take her my hoodie? I don’t want her to get cold tonight.”

  “I already made her one up with Super D and your number on it,” he grins like a know-it-all. “I’ll take it to her before the game starts. She has food service at her seat and the server has already been notified she’s to charge your account.”