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“Mackenzie. You watch more tape than the football team does.” I narrow my eyes. “I’m just saying you deserve a break. The girls killed it today. Let’s go celebrate!”
Summer does a little shake with a clap into a High-V. I chuckle at her, my first friend here at the University. I was drawn to her instantly. She’s sweet and fun and spunky. I just knew she had to have been a cheerleader. When she introduced herself as head of the Welcome Committee, a former Polarette, I fell in love. She’s been a lifesaver, helping me get adjusted to being Head Coach here.
She’s also the only one who knows my secret.
“Fine,” I relent. “One drink! We have an early practice tomorrow.”
“Youhave an early practice tomorrow. I have a lazy morning in bed with my man.” She waggles her eyebrows and I roll my eyes.
“Don’t rub it in.”
“I can introduce you to someone if you’d like.” She sings-songs and circles around me. “You may already know him.”
I throw a quick glance her way and see the devilish smirk written across her face. I purse my lips. “Oh yeah? And who might that be?”
She shrugs. “Just some guy. Now come on, let’s get down to JB’s. Dash is already there, waiting for us. And I’m sure Noel and Aiden will be down, too.”
I know she’s talking about Mark, but I’m not ready to come clean yet. I can’t risk my job by letting people know who I am. And I can’t risk my father finding out I’m hanging out with Mark.
* * *
We enter the bar together, and Summer takes off the instant she spots Dash. So much for a wing woman tonight. I follow her as she jumps into his arms, literally wrapping herself around him. I want that kind of chemistry. I felt that kind of chemistry. When Mark pulled me into his lap at the gym, it felt good. When he picked me up and wrapped me around his waist, it felt right.
But I can’t let it continue. Someone is going to get hurt.
“Hey guys,” I tentatively interrupt Dash and Summer making out, while Noel and Aiden welcome me in. I’ve met Noel a few times since she works at the school, too.
She leans in and gives me a quick hug. “Hey girl! So glad you made it down tonight! This is my husband, Aiden.” He puts out his hand and we shake it quickly.
“Hey Mackenzie, nice to meet you. And welcome to Candy Cane Key. How’s it going so far?”
“It’s great. I’m loving this town and the people are so friendly. The girls I coach are amazing. I’m happy with my move.”
“I’m happy with your moves, too.” A deep voice comes from behind me and lights my body up.
“Jesus, Mark, let the girl breathe.” Dash steps in front of me and Mark comes to my side. “Hey Mackenzie, it’s nice to finally meet you face to face.”
“You too, Dash. I’ve heard a lot about you.” I wink at Summer, and he turns on her quickly. “All good, don’t worry.” He softens and gives her a quick spank on her ass before turning his blue-brown eyes back to us.
“I don’t think we’ve officially met. I’m Mark McCall. This guy’s better-looking best friend.” He gives me a wink and extends his giant hand, which envelopes mine and swallows it whole.
I’d like to swallow him whole.
The thought runs through my mind and my eyes widen. His eyes get playful, and that smile appears larger. He squeezes my hand, then pulls away, running his middle finger across my palm and lingering at my fingertips before dropping it again.
Damn, this guy is too smooth. He’s got me and he knows it.
“You two haven’t met yet?” Summer inquires. She steps right up to me and looks back and forth between Mark and I.
“I’ve met her in my dreams, but it will be nice to share a beer together. What can I get you?”
Dash smacks his shoulder and Summer snorts, then gives me a wink. “Just as I thought.” When I narrow my eyes at her, she only flips her hair and waves over the waitress.
I turn to stare at Mark and see he’s already watching me. I put on my smile, which I’ve trained myself to wear at all times, and I pretend I’m not afraid of being recognized here.
“What’s it like being the most beautiful girl in this bar?”
“What’s it like being the bigg- “
