Dare to Stay (Dare Nation 4)

“Thank you.” She rose onto her tiptoes and brushed a kiss over his lips, but before he could grab her hips, she danced back out of the way. “We really need to work.”

“But you’re coming home with me tonight,” he said, a hint of vulnerability in his voice. As if he were worried she’d changed her mind.

How could she? He was becoming more and more important to her as the days went on.

* * *

As Braden went through the rest of his day, he couldn’t take his eyes off Cole, and his blood boiled inside him. He treated his patients, though it was no surprise to him there’d been no one looking for him despite Walsh’s claim to the contrary.

He’d had a brutal day, seeing players and meeting with coaches all afternoon. Today was his day off at the clinic, and he couldn’t help but worry if they were short-staffed there. And after the emotionally draining meeting in his office with Austin and Willow, he wanted nothing more than to head home and climb into bed with his woman. But first he had something to take care of.

Braden deliberately stayed later than the rest of the doctors, trainers, and therapists, making sure to schedule Cole’s appointments late, as well. He sent Willow a text saying he’d be there in ten minutes to walk her out so she could follow him home. Then he made his way to the training room, where Cole was getting his things together to leave for the day.

Making sure no one was still around or liable to intrude, Braden walked up behind the man. “Walsh!”

Cole jerked in surprise and spun around, eyeing Braden warily and for good reason. He’d been waiting for this moment all day.

“You and I need to come to an understanding.” Anger vibrated inside him, and as Braden stepped closer, he realized not only was he broader but taller than Willow’s ex.

And from the look on Cole’s face, he realized it as well and backed himself against the wall, away from Braden.

“I don’t have anything to say to you.”

“Yeah, well, I have something to tell you. I hold your job in my hands. One word to Ian and you’re out.” He started out with the threat he hoped would mean the most to the man.

“Not unless he has cause.” He puffed up his chest like he’d made a valid and irrefutable point.

“Yeah? How’s stalking a female employee? Is that cause?” Braden asked, taking a step closer.

Cole’s face flushed red. “That’s bullshit.”

“And yet somehow I think Ian will believe Willow over you.” Annoyed with the asshole who couldn’t take a hint, Braden tried yet another tactic that kept his hands clean. “Listen, man. I don’t have a problem with you as long as you leave Willow alone.” He deliberately caged Cole against the wall. “Do you understand?”

“She was mine until you came along.” His whiny voice didn’t make his point. He trembled but didn’t back down.

Braden shook his head in disgust. “You ought to learn how to read a woman better. Consider that man-to-man advice. Now, are you going to back off?” He really hoped the prick said yes.

“Fuck you. I’m not doing anything wrong.”

Braden snapped. He grabbed Cole around the neck, not hard enough to hurt him or leave bruises, but the action made his point, and Cole’s eyes grew wide in his pale face.

“I may be a doctor like you, but I grew up with big-ass athletic brothers who knew how to fight. You don’t want to get into it with me.” He paused to let his words sink in. “If I hear or see you bothering her again, you’ll answer to me. And you won’t just lose your job.” He released him and followed up with a shove against the wall. “I mean it, Walsh. She doesn’t exist for you.”

He walked away without looking back and headed for Willow’s office so they could go home.

* * *

Willow made herself comfortable at Braden’s apartment while he showered. He’d said they would order in dinner, but while he was busy, she explored the kitchen, hoping she could find ingredients to cook for him. Unfortunately his refrigerator and cabinets contained typical bachelor fare. Some canned soup and boxes of macaroni and cheese, cereal, milk, and beer.

“Oh well.” She laughed at her findings and walked through the living room, exploring the items on the wooden shelves on either side of the large television.

Just like in his office, there were photos of his family, including a picture of his mother, a man she assumed was the father who’d raised him, and all the kids when they were young. She wasn’t surprised to see a more serious-looking Braden wearing glasses, standing beside his twin, while the other boys acted out. One had his tongue out; another put his fingers up in rabbit ears over Bri’s head. They were adorable, and she ran her finger over the glass, glad he’d had his siblings growing up.