Page 31 of Playing It Forward

I throw my phone on the table before standing. I might as well get some fresh ice for my shoulder. I won’t be sleeping anytime soon.

I make my way downstairs to the training room. Since it’s late, it’s dark and deserted. I flip on the lights.

I grab some ice and sit down to wrap it around my shoulder.

“Hello!”

I glance over my shoulder. Terri is standing at the entrance to the room. She’s pale and has bruises under her eyes.

“You shouldn’t be here.”

She rolls her eyes before stepping inside. “I’m pretty sure you’re the one who shouldn’t be here. Shouldn’t you be in bed by now?”

I grunt. “Couldn’t sleep.”

She comes closer. “Why couldn’t you sleep?”

I frown. I’m sitting here without a shirt on, holding an ice pack to my shoulder. “Isn’t it obvious?”

Her eyes flare as her gaze rakes over my chest. When she notices my shoulder, her eyes widen. “Your injury?”

I shrug and end up wincing.

“Let me help.” She picks up the wrap. I press the ice against my shoulder while she winds the wrap around the joint to secure it.

Despite the ache in my shoulder, I enjoy having her near. Her hair falls forward and drapes over me. I nearly moan at how silky it feels. I’d love to fist it in my hand while ravishing her mouth and enjoying her taste. Does she always taste of strawberry?

My cock twitches. Shit. I need to stop this train of thought before I end up aching in a way only she can help.

“You’re pretty good at this.”

She sighs and steps back. I fist my hands before I reach for her and set her on my lap. Before I remind her how good we can be together.

“You wouldn’t believe how many injuries I deal with in my job.”

“But you’re an event planner.”

“Yep. And rich people are crazier than pirates snagged by a siren’s spell.”

I chuckle. “Only rich people?”

She waves away my question. “Are you okay now? Do you need any painkillers?”

“I’m fine.”

“How are you playing with this injury?”

“How do you know I’m playing?”

Her cheeks darken and she ducks her chin. “I saw you.”

Warmth spreads through me. Terri wants me. But I’m off limits. Because of her boss. And I’ve been an asshole. Pressuring her to date me for my own selfish wants and desires when she’s a professional who doesn’t want to hurt her career. I understand not wanting to hurt your career.

“I need to apologize.”

Her head whips up. “Apologize? What did you do? If you flooded your bathroom, it’s not my department.”

“My bathroom is fine. I meant apologize for pressuring you to date me. I thought because you broke the rules once, it wasn’t a big deal for you to break them again. I didn’t listen to your concerns. I’m sorry. I won’t pressure you anymore.”