Chapter 11

Dominik’s goal ended up being the only one, though the rookie, Heath Ladd, came close more than a few times. While the other players had trouble breaking out of the neutral zone, Ladd cut into the opposition like a hot blade through butter. The kid was fast, so he seemed to be on a different pace than everyone else on both teams.

But his efforts only resulted in repeated rings off the post.

The crowd groaned. The team gave Ladd quiet words of encouragement.

The boy reacted to neither. He was calm to the extreme. Composed.

He did, however, let himself smile a little when the Cobras won. Dominik kept an eye on him, hoping to get a clue about how to deal with the boy by how he interacted with the team. So far, he was polite and practically mute. He grinned at Bower when the game ended, waiting near the boards for the rest of the guys to finish congratulating the goalie.

Holding back, Dominik watched Ladd approach Bower.

“Great game, mate.” Ladd rubbed his glove across his lips. “Been wantin’ to see ya play.”

Bower straightened to his full height, a big grin spreading across his lips. “Yeah? Well, thanks, kid. You were pretty good yourself. I think you’ll get your first goal in New York for sure.”

Ladd shrugged. He’d apparently said all he was going to say, but it was better than the one word replies everyone else—including Dominik—got from the boy. Maybe he could use Bower’s help to get the boy settled. The younger players had tried welcoming the rookie, but he’d nodded and grunted a lot to all their questions.

Carter, who was usually friendly with everyone, had muttered at one point, “The new guy’s stuck-up.”

Easy to assume, but Dominik had a feeling Ladd was observing them all, trying to figure out where he fit in.

Which, in the playoffs, would have to happen quickly.

Back in the locker room, Dominik changed into jeans and a hoodie, grabbing his jacket before joining Ladd at his stall. The younger man had a long-sleeved shirt, but he hadn’t brought along anything warmer. He’d come straight from London with a small suitcase and his hockey equipment. The weather down here was unseasonably warm, but this close to the ocean, nights still hovered close to freezing.

Poor kid was going to have a hard time getting used to the weather. Hopefully, the rest of his things would be shipped over soon. He had a one-way contract, so he didn’t have to worry about being sent back down. He’d been in Ontario for almost a year, but after looking Ladd up online, Dominik had found out that he’d had been in Russia as a junior. So the cold wasn’t a new thing, but he hadn’t been prepared for spring in Nova Scotia.

At least Dominik was parked inside. So tonight wouldn’t be too bad, but if Ladd’s stuff didn’t get here before they flew to New York tomorrow, he’d need to pick up a few things. Dominik would lend him something if he needed it—the kid would drown in most of his stuff though. He was tall, but wiry.

“Ready to go, Ladd?” Dominik called out. He had to fight not to laugh when he caught Ladd staring at Bower. Tyler and Richards had been like that with Zovko when he’d joined the team. Sometimes younger players got a case of hero worship. Bower had had an amazing season, so it wasn’t surprising that a boy who’d fought the odds and become one of the first—if not the first—Australian-born player to sign in the league would look up to him.

So long as it was just admiration, there’d be no issue. If it was more, he’d have to talk to the kid. Lusting after a guy involved with the man who handled your contract wasn’t a good way to start a stable career.

Ladd tore his gaze away from Bower and nodded at Dominik as he hefted up his sports bag. “Yeah, mate.”

That was it. Dominik sighed, not even sure why it irritated him that he couldn’t get more words out of the kid. Taking a nap hadn’t been difficult after he’d shown Ladd around his house. The boy disappeared into his new room and didn’t make a sound until Dominik told him it was time to get ready to go. He’d told Ladd to help himself to food, a shower, whatever he needed.

A few “Thanks.” A “Nope” when he asked if the kid needed anything else. A shrug when he dug a little deeper, wanting to know if the rookie had any questions.

Maybe Ladd was shy. He’d get over it. So long as he was an asset on the ice, his social skills were irrelevant.

Leading the way down the hall, Dominik pulled his phone out of his pocket to text Sahara. He’d wanted to see her before going home, but she was likely hanging out with her friends. Introducing her to Ladd didn’t seem like such a great idea anymore. The boy was so closed off, had met so many people tonight, any more would be awkward.

He could always drop Ladd off if she did want to spend time with him though.

Dominik: Hey, sunshine. What are your plans for the night?

Sahara: Looking for you. I went down to the locker room as quick as I could, but you’re not here!

Chuckling, he stopped by the door to the parking lot and held up his hand for Ladd to wait.

Dominik: I apologize. I needed to get Ladd out of the locker room. He hasn’t made the best first impression.

Sahara: Ladd? And where are you? You said I could see you tonight.

Dominik: I did, didn’t I? He’s the rookie rooming with me.

Sahara: Oh…I guess you have to take care of him then. I don’t want to bother you…

Silly girl. He was well aware of her insecurities though, so he wouldn’t tease her. He was pleased that she still wanted to see him.

Actually, he had an idea. An insane one, but it was about time he made a move to see where they were at.

Dominik: Step out of the locker room and you’ll see me.

Suddenly, she was there. Her cheeks were flushed, as though she’d rushed straight from the Ice Girls’ locker room to meet him, which was probably why she hadn’t seen him. She ducked her head as she quickly crossed the distance between them. The pleats of her tiny black skirt bounced off her thighs beneath her snug, black leather jacket. Her hair was in a high ponytail, swinging over her shoulders.

She came up to him, looking like she wanted to throw herself into his arms, but had changed her mind at the last second. Tonguing her bottom lip, she glanced over at Ladd, who was still standing somewhere behind him, completely silent.

“Hey.” She stuck out her hand. “I’m Sahara.”

Ladd moved up to Dominik’s side and gave her hand a gentle shake. “Heath Ladd.”

“Nice to meet you. And I’m sorry for stealing Dominik from you, but…well, I’m going to.” Her cheeks grew even redder as she met Dominik’s eyes. “I want this. I want everything. I don’t know exactly what that means, and I know my timing is terrible, but I couldn’t let you leave and not tell you.” She inhaled roughly. Glancing at Ladd again, she visibly relaxed when she saw he’d taken out his phone and looked comfortably distracted. Her focus returned to Dominik. “If you need proof that I’m ready, just tell me what to do. This is new and scary, but it’s everything I want. You…you’re more than I deserve, but—”

He lifted his hand to press a finger to her lips. She was adorable, trying to offer herself to him, all while bracing for rejection. There had been no way for him to get them to this point until she opened that particular door, but now that she had, he was more than willing to take over.

“Enough.” He ran his finger over her lips, then cupped her chin. The bruises were faint, but still a constant reminder of why he hadn’t pressed his claim before. “Are you sure? You were very clear about needing something casual. And I don’t blame you.”

“And I appreciate you giving me space. But I don’t need it anymore.” She peered up into his eyes, leaving no doubt as to what she needed now. “Have you decided you’re still a Dom?”

“Yes.” The admission was both liberating and terrifying. He couldn’t give a woman a simple relationship. He would always be all or nothing.

She nodded. “Then be mine.”

He smiled and reached out for her, wrapping one arm around her waist even as he tipped her chin up. It was time to lay all his cards on the table and see if she would take the bet...or fold. “Come with me.”

Her brow furrowed. “Where?”

“To New York. We’ve wasted enough time. You need a break from the hell you’ve been through.” He leaned close to her, brushing his lips over hers, tasting the sweetness of them with a flick of his tongue. “And I need you. I need to have you close so I don’t worry. So I can work my magic and convince you that you deserve everything I have to offer.”

She went perfectly still, her lips parted and her eyes closed. For a split second, he worried that he’d put too much pressure on her. She’d been through a lot and this was a big step. Even if she wanted to come, her mind would probably set up all kinds of obstacles. Her team might need her for practice. It was too last minute. She was the offspring of legendary players; she wouldn’t want to distract him from the game.

He had a counter to any objection she might come up with, but he didn’t want to be selfish. She had a life that he didn’t want to stomp all over. Plans that he wasn’t part of. He was willing to wait if that’s what it took to be part of her future. The opportunity had been there before, but he hadn’t taken it. He’d been concerned about how vulnerable she’d been after Tim and Madeline’s death. He’d given her time and space. Both of which she might still need.

“Yes.” She met his gaze, no doubt or hesitation in her eyes. “Let’s do this.”

She didn’t move. Held her breath as she lowered her gaze in the perfect act of submission. His pulse raced as he claimed her lips, lifting her to press her against the wall so she was completely helpless in his arms. She gasped as he deepened the kiss, exploring her mouth in a way he’d avoided before. He’d denied himself, and her, the depth of his passion because he couldn’t put himself out there again only to see a woman he cared for in the arms of another man.

Training was one thing. He’d enjoyed it with Akira. But he couldn’t do it again. His life had been on hold for long enough. He needed to take that next step. To find someone he could call his own.

That Sahara had played with Pischlar didn’t bother him. The man wasn’t interested in claiming anyone. Or…well, any woman anyway. He’d likely claim White if given the chance.

Which might end up being the only real obstacle. Because Sahara had played with White as well. What if she had feelings for him? White wasn’t as easy to read.

“I know Pischlar likely gave you his speech, but what about White?” Dominik didn’t want to hurt the guy. As much as he wanted Sahara, he had to be practical. If there was something between her and White, it would have to be handled carefully. “I don’t want to put pressure on you, but I don’t share well.”

“I…” Sahara glanced over at Ladd—Dominik had completely forgotten the rookie was there. “It’s not an issue. We played, but it was mostly because I see how Pisch feels about him. I made it okay, but the rest is between them. I’m kinda hoping it will work out, but I can’t keep up the games. I opened the door. But now I…want something that’s mine.”

“Do you think I will be yours, pet?”

“I hope so.” She rose up on her tiptoes to kiss him. “I’m going to go home, get some sleep, then pack. Call me when you get a chance and tell me what time the team’s heading to New York. I’ll grab a flight and meet you there.” She squeezed his hand, practically bouncing in place. Then she turned her attention to Ladd. “It was great to meet you. I hope you weren’t planning to share a room with Dominik? I should have asked, but he offered and—”

Pulling her in to claim her lips and quiet her, Dominik chuckled. Her excitement was contagious, but Ladd had heard more than enough. “He’ll be fine. I’ll get you all the details in the morning.”

“Okay.” She took a deep breath and laughed. “This is insane, but it feels right.”

It did, but Dominik wouldn’t let himself get carried away. Having her with him on the trip was a step in the right direction, but who knew where things would go from here? At least she had family out there if things didn’t work out.

Either way, there was no reason to ruin the anticipation for her. He gave her a hooded look and wrapped her ponytail around his hand, whispering against her lips. “Pack light, pet. I tend to fully enjoy what you’ve given me to play with when I’m not on the ice.”

She shivered, the flush in her cheeks returning as her eyes widened. “I will. But maybe something pretty in case we go out to dinner or—”

“No need, I’m not bringing you to show you off, Sahara.” He brushed his lips over hers one last time before letting her go. “Sleep well.”

* * *

Sahara was too excited to sleep much that night. She ended up going to Jami’s house and trying to be very, very quiet as she paced around the guest room. Exhaustion finally took over, and she crashed for a few hours. But she woke bright and early, dressing in the jogging pants and Cobra T-shirt Jami loaned her before heading to the kitchen.

At the stove, making scrambled eggs and breakfast sausages, Sebastian glanced over at her, amusement lighting in his dark brown eyes. “Are you hungry?”

“Not really, but I should probably eat.”

“Sí, pequeño. But help yourself to coffee first. It is fortunate that you will sleep on the flight.” He pushed the eggs around the frying pan with a spatula, then transferred them to a plate. “You were restless last night, yes?”

Damn it, she’d kept him up. She frowned as she went to grab a mug and fill it with coffee. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to bother you.”

“No bother at all. I had much on my mind as well and spent hours in my library, reading.” He filled another plate with sausages and brought them to the round table in the small, brightly lit breakfast nook. He returned to the kitchen to grab the toast when it popped. “My loves weren’t disturbed, and Luke’s sister could sleep through the world splitting in two. I did wonder what was troubling you, but there’s no need to tell me more than you are comfortable with.”

There were some of the Cobras she considered friends who she could share just about anything with. Except the subject of Grant. Scott had even gotten some awkward details about her period once when he’d demanded to know why she was moody. Pischlar knew her entire sexual history.

She had a comfortable relationship with Sebastian, but she’d never really confided in him. He and Luke were kinda like friends because of all the time she spent with Jami. Not people she’d go to with her problems… She didn’t want him worrying either, though.

“Actually, for once it’s something good that kept me up. You know I’m heading to New York today?” She took a sip of her coffee, wrinkling her nose at the bitter taste. She’d been too distracted to even think of adding sugar or cream.

Chuckling, Sebastian came over and passed her the sugar dish. He opened the fridge and pulled out the cream. “Yes, you and Jami discussed your trip extensively last evening. She wishes she could come as well.”

“Why doesn’t she?”

“She won’t leave Samantha. And Luke would not do well with his sister underfoot during such an important game.” Sebastian made a dismissive gesture. “Not something I care to discuss further. You were explaining why the trip to New York is a good thing?”

She nodded as she fixed her coffee so it was actually drinkable. “Dominik wants me there. I want to spend time with him. I was kinda worried I’d be a distraction too, but he’s been doing this long enough to know what he can handle. And he can handle me just fine.” She choked on her coffee, realizing she’d just blurted out way too much. “I mean—”

“I know what you mean. And you’re right, Mason will have no issue doing whatever is necessary. With you and on the ice.” A movement near the table had his eyes narrowing. He snapped his fingers and let out a sharp “No.”

Luke’s puppy, Bear, dropped his paws back to the floor and slunk up to Sebastian with a hesitant wag of his tail.

He patted the dog’s head and continued. “I’m surprised it took you both so long to realize how well you’re suited. Perhaps I shouldn’t be. You share the same aversion to considering your own best interest.”

Sahara blinked, joining him at the table and picking up one of the empty plates to serve herself at his pointed look. “We do?”

“Yes. Mason was comfortable training subs for a time. Too comfortable. I was not surprised to hear he rushed to the hospital when Oriana was hurt. I expect it had more to do with either Perron or Callahan, but I may be mistaken. The point is, he keeps all those he cares for. Has a need to watch out for them.” Sebastian lifted his mug to his lips, studying her face as though gauging her reaction. “You found shelter with one who does the opposite. Pischlar cares for many, but he holds them at arm’s length. He can’t hurt you and you can’t hurt him. I believe that’s very important to you.”

“It used to be.” She put her mug down beside her untouched plate full of food. “I’m a wreck. I don’t know what’s going to happen with Grant and the trial. I don’t know if I can do a real relationship. But…I want to try.”

He inclined his head. “This is good. Because I believe Mason reached the same decision. I would warn you to guard your heart if I believed Oriana still owned most of his, but she doesn’t. He is not a man to play games. He enjoyed training because he could invest himself fully in his students. He is a man who does nothing halfway.”

“So you approve?” She wasn’t sure why Sebastian’s approval mattered, but it did. Her friends were biased. He wasn’t. So maybe a different perspective was exactly what she needed. “He’s the captain of your team. He needs stability, and I’m not sure I can give him that.”

“He knows what he needs. He’s no different than you in his hopes for the future. None of us are, really.” Sebastian cut a piece of sausage with his fork. Snapped his fingers and smiled when Bear came to sit beside him. When the puppy held still for a full minute, he tossed her the piece of meat, which she caught in midair. “Happiness doesn’t always come when we’re in the right place in our lives. All we can do is latch on to what we’re offered and not waste a single moment. Know that, whether things are hectic or calm, those who truly love you will be there in the end.”

Sahara took a bite of toast, nodding as she thought over his words. “You’re not just talking about Dominik. I pushed Jami and Akira away for a bit. That was a mistake.”

“It’s good that you’re aware of this. I try not to meddle, but I don’t take kindly to those who make my girl sad.” His tone sharpened, just a little. “Don’t do it again.”

She bit her lip, not sure if he was mad at her for upsetting Jami or if his warning was just that. Sebastian had always been pretty easygoing, but if it had been him in the parking lot instead of Cort that day when Grant showed up? She wouldn’t have been able to get rid of him so easily.

And if she’d treated him like she had Cort, they wouldn’t be having a pleasant conversation right now. He gave respect where it was earned.

She was just happy she hadn’t done anything to lose his.

“I won’t.” She took a few more bites and cleared her throat. “So, you guys played better yesterday. What are you expecting in New York?”

Before Sebastian could answer, Jami shuffled into the dining room with Luke a step behind her. They both slumped into their chairs.

Sahara took the opportunity to go grab them some coffee.

“It’s too early for all the serious talk. You’re both nuts.” Jami mumbled thanks when Sahara handed her a mug. “The team has to win the next two games. Take the series back home and end it. Anything other than that will piss me off.”

Luke snickered, inclining his head when Sahara gave him his coffee. “No pressure, right? Just for that, boo, we’re gonna bring both games to overtime.”

Jami groaned. “You are a pain in my ass!”

“Not lately. You’re always ‘too tired.’”

“I have a real job.”

That escalated quickly. Sahara stared into her coffee, wishing she had a newspaper to hide behind. Or her phone. Maybe this was karma for what she and Dominik had pulled in front of Ladd.

The smile disappeared from Luke’s lips. “Seriously, Jami? You want to talk about this right before we leave?”

“You brought it up. She should go back to school so she can get a ‘real job.’”

“She”. They were discussing Samantha. Nothing seemed to get Jami and Luke butting heads more than anything involving his pregnant sister. Sahara refused to take sides. Jami thought Luke should forgive his sister for stealing from his mother—and Jami—because she was family.

But family often left wounds that took the longest to heal.

“She got fired again! She got caught stealing from one of her coworkers!”

“She has issues!”

“Clearly!”

“Enough!” Sebastian smacked his hands on the table as he stood. “Why am I only hearing of this now?”

“Because Jami texted me last night. I saw the text this morning and she said not to be mad. So I was trying not to be.” Luke gulped down his coffee. Rubbed his lips with the back of his fist. “I mentioned Sam going back to school, and now Jami’s throwing it in my face. Because I’m an unreasonable asshole when it comes to my sister. Well, we know whose side Jami’s on.” He pushed away from the table. “I’m going to the gym for a bit.”

Sahara shrank into her chair as Sebastian reached out and grabbed Luke’s arm. She shouldn’t be here. They had too much going on to deal with yet another person in their home. She should have considered that before accepting Jami’s invitation to spend the night.

“This will be resolved before you leave, niño.” Sebastian gave Sahara an apologetic look. “You must catch your plane soon. I will drive you. Chicklet informed me earlier that Cort has been assigned to watch over you, so we will be picking him up and he will be on your flight.”

Oh fuck. Sahara had planned to talk to Cort, but…not yet. In the near future. Next week if absolutely necessary?

But Sebastian was pissed and she wouldn’t aggravate him more. So she simply nodded and watched him drag Luke, with Jami following, to their bedroom.

Her phone buzzed. She pulled it out of the pocket of her borrowed sweatpants and grinned.

Dominik: When is your flight leaving?

She checked her watch.

Sahara: Three hours. I’ll have to chill in New York for a bit before you get there.

Dominik: Not alone?

Sahara: No. Seb just said Cort’s coming with me.

Dominik: Good.

Sahara: Yeah, not so much. I was horrible to him. We haven’t talked since. It’s gonna be…weird.

Nothing for what seemed like a long time. Then she saw that he was typing.

Dominik: Cort’s a good guy. But if he gives you a hard time, let me know.

Sahara: Why? This is my mess.

Dominik: Call me. I’m tired of typing. And I need to hear you’re all right.

She took a deep breath, then clicked his number on speed dial. For some weird reason, just hearing “Hello” from him put her at ease.

“Hey. I’m sorry if you’re worried. I’m really fine.”

He snorted. “A ‘fine’ from you could mean many things. You’re finally letting me in, pet. I don’t take that lightly.”

“What does that even mean? I’m going to spend time with you, but you’re not taking on the drama that follows me everywhere.” She sighed. “I’ve decided not to pack it. I’m not checking a big bag. You said to pack light.”

“I did. But I want you, Sahara. All of you.” He spoke softly, choosing his words carefully. “The team is less worried about Higgins at the moment than they are of his fans. I’m grateful that Cort can keep you safe. He will understand why you pushed him away. You pushed everyone away. You will resolve the situation. My only concern is you make the trip in one piece.”

“You get that you’re worried about puck bunnies, right? He hasn’t come near me. His lawyers are doing a good job keeping him away.”

“But you will accept the protection offered.”

“Yes. I’m not stupid. One of those fans spray-painted my door. And the threats online…” Goose bumps rose on her arms and she rubbed them to warm herself. “I won’t take chances, but I won’t give them any more power than they’ve already taken.”

“I’m not asking you to. But let us help, Sahara. Whether it’s Akira, Jami, their men…or me.” Dominik sighed. “Indulge us. We couldn’t stop Grant from hurting you. But we want to believe we can prevent him from doing it again.”

This isn’t your problem. I chose him. I let him back in! Her eyes teared as she considered how willing she had been, all of a week ago, to believe Grant was a new man. She thought of his mother. Such a sweet woman. There had been times she’d talked to her about things she wasn’t willing to go to her own mother with. Sahara had a normal relationship with her parents. Regular calls. Visits at holidays that could be trying, but still nice.

Her mother wasn’t one Sahara could discuss anything unpleasant with. She was fragile. Always had been. Her father was proud of Sahara’s every accomplishment. A little more focused on her brother who was sixteen and in the minors, but they had a legacy to carry on.

None of this was what Dominik wanted to hear. He was worried about her. And she’d given him plenty of reason to be.

That had to stop if they were going to have anything worth holding on to.

“I’ve already promised not to drop the charges. Whatever security the team decides I need, I’ll accept.” She sighed. “But I miss things being simple. The worst outcome being whatever people said about pictures of us together online.”

He let out a rough laugh. “You haven’t seen the comments, have you? Wait…don’t you dare look for them. But I want you to promise me one thing.”

“I can do that. Depending on what you want, Sir.”

“You’re incorrigible. All I ask is you come to me if anyone brings up anything that you think will be a problem. We are doing this together.” His tone was strained. “People can be cruel. But you’re not alone.”

She dropped onto the sofa in Jami’s living room and pulled her knees to her chest. If Dominik was willing to deal with all the craziness she was bringing into the relationship, she could handle whatever his fans had to say about her. She’d grown up hearing crude remarks at school about her grandfather, her uncles, and her father. Her mother had never “lowered” herself to acknowledging any of the fan mail or the way girls threw themselves at Dad, but Sahara had to deal with her own friends acting like idiots. She was prepared for just about anything.

“I know that. But I can’t wait until I’m actually with you. Maybe then all the press and the mess I’ve gotten myself into won’t seem all that important.” She was going to sound like a selfish bitch, but she needed to make one request before she let him go. “Just promise, when we’re together, you’ll let me be useful? I don’t care if it’s washing your feet or ironing your clothes, I really, really, don’t want to be a burden.”

“That has to be the simplest thing you’ve asked of me so far.” There was a smile in his tone, one that warmed her almost as much as his arms did when he held her. “You’ll be in New York a few hours before me, but I’ve put your name on my room so you can check in if you’d like.”

“I’d say they won’t let me check in that early, but you guys probably have the whole floor.” She’d never gone on road trips with Grant, so she wasn’t sure what to expect, but she’d been around the hockey lifestyle enough to know about the special privileges given to the team. As a child, she’d experienced some of them. The league had changed though. So she’d just have to wing it. “And I guess the pictures will help.”

“Don’t forget your promise, Sahara.”

“What promise?”

“The comments. No reading them. I won’t have anonymous assholes upsetting you.” His voice was soft, but firm. “And one more thing.”

He wasn’t holding back with the orders. And she loved it. She twirled her hair around her finger and grinned. “Are you gonna tell me not to pack any panties?”

A sharp laugh, then he groaned. “Brat. No, I’d like you to pack everything you normally would. With one addition.” He paused. “Bring the red dress.”

Less than an hour later, in her apartment with both Sebastian and Cort standing guard, the red dress was the first thing that went into her suitcase. She packed in record time; sure her cheeks must be beet red from her thoughts of Dominik’s reaction to the silk nightgowns she’d chosen. She had a feeling her suitcase would be lighter on the way home if even half of her fantasies played out. The delicate straps wouldn’t survive her lust, never mind his.

At the airport, after going through security and finding her gate with Cort, she settled in to wait for the flight to board. Her mind wandered to how things would be now that she and Dominik were taking the next step. Maybe she was thinking about it too much. He’d been tender with her, but even before their first date he’d warned her that she wouldn’t get more than a kiss. What if the same restrictions applied? He’d mentioned wanting to spend time with her. And he wanted her to bring panties.

“Stop that.” Cort leaned back in his seat, rubbing one hand over his shaved head. He scowled when the man beside him cringed. Then sighed when Sahara blinked at him. “Sorry, you tapping your foot like that is driving me insane.”

She hadn’t even realized she was doing it. She crossed her legs and smoothed her flowy, white and blue knee-length skirt. They hadn’t exchanged more than the barest pleasantries. She didn’t want to annoy him. Especially when she still hadn’t figured out how to apologize.

“I’m sorry.” She brought her fingers to her mouth absently but caught herself before she started chewing her nails. She hadn’t done that since she was a teen. Not a habit she wanted to start over.

There were about ten minutes left before they boarded and were stuck in separate seats. Cort wasn’t a big talker. She might as well get the apology out there so their time together wouldn’t be awkward.

“I should have told you before, but I really am sorry. I shouldn’t have been such a bitch to you.” She stared down at her hands on her knees. “You’re a better friend than I deserve.”

He gave her a sideways look. “You consider me a friend?”

“Yes. I know part of what you did was because Akira was worried, but you risked going back to jail because you were worried about me.” Talking to him was getting easier. The weight of guilt lifted a little from her chest. “And, now that I think about it, you scaring him off was probably the best thing that could have happened. Who knows how much worse things would have been if…” Her throat tightened. It wasn’t hard to imagine how bad. If Grant hadn’t lost his temper so quickly, if he hadn’t broken into her apartment, she’d still be convinced he’d changed.

“Hey, shit happens. I ain’t even mad.” Cort took her hand and gave it a little squeeze. “I’ve seen situations like this end badly. I’m just happy you’re all right.”

All that worry for nothing. She should have known Cort wouldn’t hold a grudge.

But it seemed almost too easy. Like she should have to earn his forgiveness. Or at least explain herself a bit more. She took a deep breath.

He held up a hand and shook his head. “Don’t. You’ve been through enough. Akira is over it. I’m over it.”

“But—”

“But you can’t forgive yourself. Not sure how to help you with that, sweetheart.” His lips quirked up to one side. “How about you buy me a beer when I get my ankle monitor off? You can be part of celebrating my freedom.”

She smiled at him, loving the idea. “Deal. It shouldn’t be much longer, right?”

“Next week I go before the judge and either get pardoned or go to jail.” He didn’t seem upset by the prospect, so he probably expected the judgment to go in his favor. His grin widened as though he’d seen her thoughts playing out on her face. “They let me travel with the team now. So long as I don’t fuck up, all that’s left is the paperwork.”

So long as he doesn’t… She bit her bottom lip hard. If Grant had pressed charges, the outcome might have been very different. She would have been responsible for Cort losing his freedom.

“You’re doing it again. Stop.” He stood and slung his black rucksack over his shoulder. “Don’t dwell on what might have happened. It didn’t. Let’s just get on this plane and see where things go from here.”

“To New York.” She joined him in line, rolling her small suitcase behind her. “Other than that, I have no clue.”

He chuckled, putting his arm around her and giving her a quick hug. “Ever think there’s nothing wrong with that? Change don’t happen when you’re doing the same old shit.”

“Very true.” She gave him a little nudge with her elbow. “Anyone ever tell you you’re pretty smart for a thug?”

With a loud snort that got a few startled looks, Cort shook his head. “Not lately. But thank you.”

“My pleasure.” She giggled when he rolled his eyes at her, then held out her ticket and passport to get scanned before heading down the jet bridge to board the plane. She was happy and relaxed, more than she’d been in a while. The people who mattered to her hadn’t abandoned her, no matter how many reasons she’d given them to. She was out of Grant’s reach. For good this time.

Most importantly, she wasn’t running from a chance at love anymore. She was, quite literally, flying toward it, full speed. And the future was looking pretty damn awesome.