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I don’t care what or who she does if it means she finds happiness again.
Reaching for my drink, I mean to take a sip but down half of it. I really need to get over how nervous Ash makes me feel when I am around him.
His mom was spot on when she said he’s an all or nothing guy; he’s been all in with me from our first meeting at the conference center, recalling he said I tasted like his best decision and his.
I love how confident and up front he’s been with me from the beginning. It’s a rare trait, but I get the impression his confession is even rarer; knowing he doesn’t go out or date, and holds his cards close to his chest. Only, he makes me feel special, opening up to me in a way that seems foreign to both him and I.
“Buster’s a great guy. They all are.” Ash gives my knee a squeeze, making me wince. “I’m so sorry. They look sore.” Running his finger over my skin with care, his brow becomes wrinkled.
“They’re a little tender.” They’ve been aching all day. I now have what looks like a miniature land map of bright purple and blue bruising covering both my knees. I almost didn’t wear a short dress tonight because they look hideous.
“No more skating for you then. I’m sorry.”
I hold my pointer finger in the air as I make my declaration, as if I am a knight about to slay a dragon, “I will not be defeated. I will master the art of ice skating.” I pause. “And you are going to teach me.” I’m determined to learn. I can’t be a hockey player’s girlfriend who can’t even skate. That’s just ridiculous, and embarrassing.
“Yeah?” His eyes bug out in shock.
“Yes. I want to learn how to move at speed like you. You were incredible tonight.”
“Did you have fun?” He sounds surprised.
“The best.” My answer is genuine and breathy. “I’m addicted.”
“To hockey?
“No, to you. I could watch you all day.” My skin heats and I’m sure he’s aware of the effect he has on me. “I’m your biggest fan.”
Visibly touched, he runs his hand down his face, then rubs his beard. “Well, shit. That’s the best fucking thing I’ve heard all year, Tiger.”
And he’s the best thing to have happened to me in, well, ever.
Everyone joins us around the table, and the drinks flow, as does the conversion. Time flies as I dance with the girls and have the most fun I have had since I returned to my roots.
From the minute I started dancing, Ash never took his eyes off me, and I may have moved more provocatively just for him. Known for not having the best sense of rhythm, I made a huge effort to try and stay in time with the music, and it was worth it. I knew what he was thinking when he clenched his jaw as I swayed my hips suggestively, to get a reaction.
My hard work paid off when he was on his feet minutes later, grinding himself against me and kissing my neck. Every time our bodies connect, the heat between us grows stronger. We’re one spark away from starting a forest fire. Ash even told me so as he ushered me back to my seat, declaring his fear of fucking me on the dance floor in front of everyone.
Returning to our seats, I opt for soft drinks as I want to remember everything about tonight.
As soon as Ash informed Candy what I did for a living she’s been asking me questions about how I could help her organize her upcoming wedding.
I already know we’re going to be great friends.
I’m excited at the idea that this might be the start of setting the wheels in motion toward my dream of being my own boss.
Throughout our entire conversation, Ash’s hand never left my thigh, kissing the skin of my shoulder from time to time as if he was reminding me he was there. As if I could forget. His touch sets my body on fire, and I am desperate to get him alone.
* * *
At some point, Ash lifted me onto his lap, refusing to let me move. Sitting there, I give my ass a wiggle and silently pray he feels the same way I do when I lean in close to his ear and whisper, “Wanna get out of here?”
As lovely as it is to be out meeting new people, I’ve noticed Ash is incredibly quiet around larger crowds. I want to spend some alone time with him, and I get the impression he prefers an environment where he can spend one on one time with me, too. Even Leon confirmed it when he introduced himself earlier. Ash doesn’t socialize with his team after games.
Not needing to be asked twice, Ash is on his feet, grabbing my silver clutch bag and guiding me toward the exit while hugging my hips with his big hands as we say our goodbyes to people as we go.
Ash gives Buster firm instructions to make sure Gemma gets back to her hotel safely.
I give Gemma a tight squeeze and tell her to have fun.
