Sidelined

“Darlin’, I’m aware of this situation, but I have a bigger problem and you’re the only one who can fix it.”

“What’s that?”

“Look, I don’t date during the season. I don’t go near women.”

I crossed my arms. I wasn’t sure I liked where this was going.

“But, the more I try to forget you, the more you’re in my head. That night is in my head. And I think being with you is the only way to keep my game straight.”

I felt a flare of anger. “You think I’m some kind of good luck charm?” I was louder than I meant to be.

“No. I didn’t say that. I said you’re in my head. I think I see you in the crowd and I drop the ball. I think I hear your voice and I run the wrong route. I remember that night and I block the wrong guy.”

I was quiet for a moment. “What if I told you the same thing? Not routes or blocking guys, but I’ve missed steps and routines. I called the wrong cheer and almost kicked one of the girls in the face because I went the wrong direction.”

“Then I’d say there’s only one way to get out of each other’s head.”

“And my roommate?”

He thought quickly. “Call up to the room and tell her your uncle came by to see you.”

“Uncle?” I giggled.

“Make up someone.”

I knew he was right. I had to be with him tonight. As badly as he needed to be with me. And I’d tell an endless pot of lies if that was what it took to get in his bed. No matter how wrong this was. No matter what codes I broke.

“What’s the room number?” I asked.

“402.”

“I’ll see you in a few minutes.”

He leaned over the table, brushing his lips over mine. The kiss blistered my lips and I reached for his neck, needing more. He broke away.

“See you soon.”

He walked out and I went in search of the complimentary concierge phone to call Heather.

Seventeen

Sam

I took the elevator to the fourth floor. It had taken all the restraint I had not to finish what I started in that ballroom. My cock was hard, and Natalia had awakened the beast in me. I was missing the Dean for this. But she was worth it.

I let myself into the room. I had reserved a suite for the night. It wasn’t as if I needed to impress her, but there was something in me that wanted to.

A few minutes later, I heard a knock on the door and walked over to let her in.

“Hi,” she greeted me softly.

I picked her up and carried her into the room. “Hi.” I devoured her lips with kisses while she clung to me. “Roommate taken care of?”

She nodded. “I’m out for a few hours.”

“That’s all?” I let her feet touch the floor.

She stared at me. “It has to be enough.”