The Ghost Groom

by Jennifer Youngblood

  He looked adorable when he was pouting. She gave him a reassuring smile. “It’s still great.” She could’ve added that she’d never felt so excited to be on a date before. Everything was enhanced. The very air held a crackle of anticipation, the food tasted better, every sensation was heightened. Down, girl, she warned herself. Geez. How many of these little talks do I need to have with myself before it sinks in? She looked at Rennen, surprised he was studying her. “What?”

  “You’re so beautiful.”

  The statement was spoken soft and husky, warming her through to her bones. “Thanks,” she murmured, her eyelashes sweeping over her cheekbones. She reached for her water and took a sip, trying to break the intense connection between them. A couple of minutes later, she realized a silver-haired man with a beard sitting at the table across the room was staring at them. When she gave him a pointed look, he turned his attention to his menu. She scowled.

  “What?”

  “There’s a man spying on us.” Truthfully, if felt good to have something other than Rennen on which to focus. She’d have to keep applying that tactic.

  Rennen sighed. “Probably a reporter.” He turned to look.

  “The one with the menu in front of his face,” Ariana said. “He’s hiding behind it now that he knows I caught him.” She homed in on the man with laser-like focus.

  Rennen laughed.

  She turned her attention back to Rennen, giving him a questioning look.

  “You’re like a little guard dog.”

  She started blinking, her shoulders tensing. “Is that a compliment or insult?”

  “A compliment to the highest degree. I admire you for it.” His eyes held hers. “Truly.” A wry grin tugged at his lips. “It’s kind of ironic, the very thing I admire you for—your fierce loyalty to your brother—is the very thing keeping you from me.”

  The words were spoken so softly Ariana couldn’t be sure she’d heard him correctly. She lifted her chin, eyeing him. “I could never betray my brother.”

  He brought his lips together in a tight line. “I know that.” He peered into her eyes. “I would never ask you to.”

  Her heart began to pound. “Just being here with you is a betrayal of sorts.”

  “I don’t see it that way at all. And I can’t imagine that Ace sees it that way either. Every single player on the team is replaceable at the drop of the hat. Our necks are on the chopping block 24/7. The best we can hope for is to ride the wave as long as we can. Ace had a much longer ride than most. He should be celebrating the victory.”

  She tensed, surprised at how quickly the anger surfaced. “Don’t presume to tell me what Ace should be feeling.”

  He held up his hands. “Okay.” She was surprised when a stupid grin washed over his face.

  “What?”

  “How do you do that?”

  Her eyebrow shot up. “What?”

  “Get fired up so fast.” He chuckled. “I wish I could bottle up your torque and use it on the field.”

  A laugh burst from her throat, releasing the tension. “You’re crazy.” So he liked her torque. That was flattering … sort of. Her thoughts went back to the silver-haired man as she shot a glare in his direction. “Doesn’t it drive you crazy that reporters are always following you?” Her brows shot down in a V. “They’re like vultures.”

  “It’s been bad the past few days,” he admitted. “Ever since the interview with Katie Moss. Before that, it was rare that people outside the sports world recognized me. But now …”

  “You’re becoming a household name,” she finished for him. There was something she’d wanted to ask Rennen since watching the interview. Even as she wondered if she should mention it, the words spilled out. “What you said about your nickname ‘the Ghost.’ That really got me.” Her voice quivered slightly. “To be perfectly honest, I was kind of surprised you talked about something that personal on TV.”

  He nodded, his features tightening. “I hadn’t planned on mentioning it, but it just came out.” His lips thinned. “When I watched the recording, I regretted saying it. But what can you do, right?” He let out a self-deprecating chuckle. “I guess that’s why Katie is so popular. She puts people at ease to the point where they spill their guts.”

  Without thinking, Ariana touched his hand. “I’m really sorry about all that you’ve gone through.”

  His jaw worked, and she could tell he was trying to put a cap on his emotions. “Thanks. It’s life, I suppose.” A sardonic smile twisted over his lips. “I guess that’s why they call life a four-letter word, huh?”

  She chuckled. “Evidently.” The conversation lagged, each of them lost in their own thoughts. There was something about the interview that had been bothering Ariana. She had no right to bring it up, but felt compelled to. “Are you sure you don’t want to find out who your parents are?” She knew she’d tread on forbidden territory the moment the words left her mouth. His eyes went flat like they had during the interview, and she could tell he was withdrawing. That was his coping mechanism. He removed his hand from hers.

  “Very sure,” he countered. “I have no use for a mother who abandoned her baby. Leaving me to fend for myself.”

  The bitter hurt in his voice stabbed through her heart. The words rushed out. “I just think you owe it to yourself to find out where you came from. So you can begin to heal.” She couldn’t stand the thought of him going through life, feeling like a ghost—not knowing who he really was.

  Mike arrived with the food. Silence overtook them as they commenced eating. The food was excellent, but Ariana couldn’t enjoy it. Finally, she couldn’t tolerate Rennen’s stoniness any longer. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to butt into your business.”

  The air seemed to hold its breath as they looked at each other. Finally, his features softened. “It’s okay.” A slight smile touched his lips. “It’s hard to talk about.”

  “I’m sure.” She was tempted to press him more about finding out about his parents but knew it would only tick him off. Besides, she didn’t have the right to question him about his past. They weren’t a couple.

  Thankfully, the conversation drifted to lighter topics. Ariana found herself talking about her boisterous family and their restaurant. How her mother was always barking orders to everybody but had a heart of gold. How her dad was quiet and reserved. Rennen talked about growing up in Austin. It was obvious he was super fond of the Boyd family who’d practically adopted him.

  When the meal was over a contented buzz settled over Ariana as she leaned back in her seat. “That was excellent. Great choice.”

  “Thanks. It was great.”

  She clutched her stomach. “I’ll have to let this food settle before we go climbing.”

  “Amen.” Rennen leaned forward. “There’s something I’d like to ask you.” His voice choked a little like he had a frog in it. He cleared it and began again. “This weekend is Gary’s sixtieth birthday.”

  Gary Boyd was the father of Rennen’s best friend in high school—and probably the closest thing Rennen had to a father.

  He searched her face. “I’d like for you to go with me.”

  She drew in a ragged breath, hardly believing that he’d ask her that. An incredulous laugh escaped her lips. “We’re on our first date … sort of. But only because I didn’t realize I was going out with you.” She gave him a sharp look. “And now you’re asking me to go away with you for the weekend?” Her voice escalated as she shook her head. Really. This was too much.

  A tiny smile crept over his lips. “I guess no one can accuse me of having alligator arms, huh?”

  She tipped her head. “I’ve never heard that before.”

  “It’s a term used when a pass receiver’s too chicken to extend his arms all the way to make a catch, mostly because he’s anticipating a hit by a defensive player.”

  “The all in or nothing approach.” She thought of what he’d said earlier about setting his sights on something and never letting it ago. A part of her
found that thrilling and a little scary.

  His smile broadened. “Exactly.”

  She couldn’t help but feel a grudging admiration for Rennen’s analogy; she’d used the same strategy in her negotiations with Mr. Knight. The tactic had certainly worked in Ariana’s favor there. Too bad it wouldn’t work for Rennen. Under another circumstance, she’d jump at the chance to go, but as it was … She tried to think of a way to let him down easily. “Even if I wanted to go, I couldn’t get off work.”

  “I’ve got it all worked out with Beth. She can arrange for someone to fill in for your classes, and she can hold down the fort. It would just be for three days—Friday through Sunday.”

  “Ah, so you and Beth have been conspiring behind my back.” She drew her lips together. “Hmm … I’ll have to talk to her about that.”

  “No, don’t do that. Beth’s only trying to help.”

  She sighed. “I know.” Beth was amazing. Ariana was so blessed to have her. Like Rennen said, she was acting in what she thought was Ariana’s best interest. She just didn’t understand the full scope of the situation. Rennen would have to get used to disappointment because there was no way they could ever be together.

  “I just don’t think I can afford to take off.”

  “Come on,” he urged. “You know you wanna go.” He gave her a crooked grin. “And after our rematch, you’ll be rolling in the dough.”

  “I was wondering when you were gonna bring that up.” She thought of the feeling of elation that had swelled through her when Mr. Knight’s assistant told her about the rematch and then how that elation had turned to acid in Ariana’s mouth when she realized she was a PR stunt.

  His watchful eyes assessed her. “What’s wrong? I thought you’d be all too happy to kick my butt on national TV.”

  “Oh, I am. Believe me.” She forced a smile. “Anything for publicity, right?” She had no right to judge him. Hadn’t she thought about how the publicity would be good for the gym? And she certainly needed the money. Her feelings on the subject made no sense. And yet, she couldn’t seem to stop herself from having them. She was pathetic.

  Amusement lit his eyes. “Is that what you think this is? A way to gain publicity?”

  Her gaze met his. “Isn’t it?”

  He touched his napkin, fingering it absently. “I mean, the publicity can’t hurt either of us, right? And don’t forget that a substantial amount of money is going to charity.”

  She concentrated on the napkin under his fingers. “Right.” She got the feeling he could see right through her. Knew how hypocritical she was being.

  A teasing light came into his eyes. “There are other perks.”

  “Such as?”

  “The more full-body contact the two of us have, the better.”

  Heat crawled up her neck. “You’re such a pig.” She couldn’t stop a smile from curving her lips.

  He shrugged. “Just saying.”

  She leaned forward, the thrill of the match seeping into her pores. “I’m gonna enjoy laying you out on national TV.”

  He also leaned forward, his eyes dancing. “You talk big for a little girl.”

  “Uh, huh,” she drawled.

  “I’m comfortable enough with my masculinity to handle whatever comes.” He cocked his head like he’d just thought of something. “I should sign up for one of your classes, so you can give me some pointers.”

  A laugh rumbled in her throat. “Pointers on how to beat me? I don’t think so.”

  A grin filled his face. “In all seriousness, I’m glad you agreed to the rematch. And I’m glad you socked it to James, made the old man fork over more money.”

  She kept a straight face. “Yeah, I kind of felt bad for charging him anything. After all, I would’ve kicked your butt for free.”

  He burst out laughing. “I know you would have.”

  Laughter rumbled in her throat. It felt good to release some of the tension. She was glad the rematch was out in the open. Of course, there was still Ace to deal with. She’d been avoiding him because she wasn’t sure how he’d feel about it. But she’d have to talk to him soon.

  Rennen studied her. “So, will you go with me to Austin?”

  She sighed. Not this, again. She shook her head, ready to turn him down, but he held up a hand.

  “You don’t have to give me an answer tonight. Just think about it.” A grin tugged at his lips. “After all, if you’re gonna turn me down, I’d rather it not be on my birthday.”

  Relief splattered over her. She wouldn’t have to tell him no tonight. They could hold onto the illusion a little longer. She allowed herself a second to rove over his face, memorizing his features—heavyset brows, thin nose that had a bump like it had been broken before, strong jaw. His mane of untamed curls. Her eyes trailed down his masculine neckline to his prominent Adam’s apple. Her throat went dry as she swallowed. She was so conflicted right now, she didn’t know which way was up. “Happy birthday.” It went through her mind that Rennen couldn’t know the real date of his birthday. Someone had probably assigned him a date. It was remarkable that he’d accomplished all he had, despite his upbringing. He was really something—one in a million.

  His eyes sparkled in a challenge as he placed a hand over hers. “You ready for our next activity?”

  She met his gaze full on. “Does a cat have a climbing gear?” She linked her fingers through his. Not the smartest move, but she couldn’t seem to help herself. She was growing weary of constantly battling this attraction.

  He chuckled. “Yes, I suppose it does.” Pleasure lit his eyes as he tightened his grip on her hand. Then he looked around. “Now where is that server with our check?”

  She cocked an eyebrow. “What? Skipping out before dessert?” Her lips formed a mock pout. “And I was looking forward to the birthday song.”

  “No, thanks.” He shuddered. “I think we’ll skip that part.”

  She wrinkled her nose. “I’ll let you off … this time. But only because you’re taking me climbing.”

  9

  Rennen kept his eyes fixed on Ariana who was climbing like a cat up the wall. When they arrived at the climbing wall, he and Ariana changed into athletic clothes. Ariana had her own climbing shoes, but Rennen rented a pair. Rennen tightened his grip on the rope as he pulled down. Ariana climbed so quickly that it was a challenge to keep the slack out of the rope as he belayed her. Rennen wasn’t an expert at climbing but he’d done it enough to know that the key to belaying was to make sure the rope stayed taut, so the harness would catch the climber in the event of a fall. Of course, with Ariana that was unlikely. She could’ve climbed without the harness and been just fine.

  Rennen marveled that someone so petite could be so tough and feisty. Ariana had been shocked and outraged when she realized her date was with him. And yet, he’d caught the longing in her eyes when he invited her to go with him to Austin. Ariana was definitely battling some demons where he and Ace were concerned. Rennen liked Ace and hadn’t set out to do him harm. When Rennen was traded to the Titans, he felt honored to play second string to such a great player, never dreaming that he’d get the opportunity to take Ace’s place. From what Rennen could tell, Ace seemed level-headed—a realist who understood the nature of the game. Sure it was awkward for Rennen and Ariana to be together, considering the circumstance, but life rarely worked out neatly. It was hard and messy and you just had to keep fighting your way through it to get to the top. And then when you reached the top, it still wasn’t over. Because then you had to fight tooth and nail to stay there.

  Everything Rennen had told Ariana earlier about the NFL was true. His neck was on the chopping block and the axe would fall if he couldn’t perform. Monroe, his agent, had fought for as much up-front money as they could get. But like many contracts with unknown players, Rennen’s two-year contract was predominantly performance based. Which is why he needed to remain focused on his training rather than getting too caught up in his feelings for Ariana. He sighed. Who was he ki
dding? Ariana was all he could think about. He’d not planned on inviting her to Austin, mostly because he knew he didn’t have a prayer of her going. Still, the words had come out. And now, he was hopeful that she might actually go. He would love to show her off to the Boyds, get Warren’s take on her. Ariana was warming up to Rennen, slowly but surely. He’d nearly wet his pants when she linked her fingers through his at the restaurant, but he acted like it was no big deal because he didn’t want to scare her away.

  Rennen wondered if he should pay Ace a visit. Once Ace realized how much Rennen cared about his sister, he was sure to come around. It was crazy how hard and fast Rennen had fallen for Ariana. Aside from her stunning beauty and feisty nature, she was a good person … loyal to those she loved. And loyalty was everything to Rennen. Plus, she wasn’t some cleat chaser after Rennen for his status or money. Rennen had lost count of the number of girls that had only been after him because he was an NFL Player. He couldn’t help but chuckle at the irony. His football status was what was keeping Ariana from him.

  Ariana reached the top and rappelled down. Rennen glanced over and noticed two twenty-something girls giving him the eye from across the room. When they realized he’d noticed them, they smiled and waved. He could tell from the looks on their faces that they recognized him. Sheesh. He wasn’t used to all the attention. It was getting old … fast! He gave them a courtesy nod, then turned back to Ariana.

  Her dark eyes sparked mischief as she laughed, casting a glance toward the girls. “The minute I leave your side, you get a collection of women falling at your feet.” Casually, she touched his arm, the warmth from her fingertips seeping into his skin.

  He leaned in, wiggling his eyebrows. “Then maybe you should never leave my side.”

  An impish grin tugged at her lips. “Maybe.”

  Was she saying what he thought she was? A thrill shot through him as his eyes held hers. “That was some climbing. Is there anything you can’t do?”

  She wrinkled her nose. “Well, according to my mom, I’m not the greatest at making tamales or tortillas.”