Chapter 15

An irritating buzzing and the sun glaring through curtains, that should have been closed, rudely jerked Dominik from sleep. He flopped his arm over his eyes and groaned, deciding he would take a couple more minutes. Blindly reaching out, he found the source of the noise and managed to hit the snooze on his phone.

Blessed silence.

He frowned when he listened closer. It was way too quiet. He sat up, found the other side of the bed empty, and lunged off the bed, grabbing his jeans as he called out, “Sahara?”

Nothing.

Damn it, had she woken up and regretted what they’d done? The night had gone well. Granted, he’d definitely need a nap before the game, but they’d made love several times and her “punishment” had been more for his amusement than anything else. He wouldn’t push for discipline so soon.

But maybe she hadn’t seen it that way? She’d been practically glowing with happiness all night, but he could have missed something.

Regardless, she shouldn’t be alone. If she was upset, she might not have thought to call Cort to go with her. There was a good chance Grant had been released if they didn’t have enough evidence to charge him. And his crazy fans were dangerous. Anything could have happened to Sahara while he’d been dead to the world.

The lock clicked on the door to the room. It opened, revealing Sahara with a tray of coffee and a paper bag in her hands. Cort held the door for her, flashed Dominik a knowing look, and then disappeared into the hall.

“Good morning!” Sahara came over to the bed, putting the coffee and whatever was in the bag on the nightstand. Her smile faded as she met his gaze. “Please tell me you’re not angry. I wanted to surprise you with breakfast and…” Her wide eyes teared. “I did it again. I keep fucking up. Please don’t be mad.”

Fuck. Good going, Mason. He shook his head, pulling her into his arms and making a soft, shushing sound. He had been worried, but he should’ve given her more credit. He wasn’t even sure she knew her need not to “keep fucking up” was likely a defense mechanism. Having a man angry with her had resulted in painful consequences in the past.

Spankings might not be a trigger, but he’d have to be careful how he expressed his displeasure. He kissed her hair and tipped her chin up with a finger. Her damp cheeks and the fear in her eyes broke his heart.

“Sahara, I was worried. I’m not thrilled that you didn’t tell me you were going out, but you brought Cort. That’s what he’s here for.” Dominik wished he could be the one protecting her, but he had too many responsibilities toward the team and he didn’t want her to feel trapped by his side. “Can we start over?”

“It’s my fault. I didn’t think and—”

“You were doing something sweet. I take it that’s a no to starting over?” He inhaled slowly, trying to think of a way to pull her out of the sandpit of guilt he’d inadvertently knocked her into. Considering the source of her reaction, he recalled what had worked last night. “Fuck off, Grant.”

Her brow furrowed, but then she let out a shaky giggle. “Yes. Damn it, I’m a mess. You’re not him, and I know that. I’m sorry.”

“Please stop apologizing. Your past isn’t going to disappear just because we’re together now. But you’re not dealing with it alone anymore. Part of any relationship is complete honesty. I’m afraid of not being able to keep you safe. That doesn’t give me the right to demand you not leave my sight.” If they were in a 24/7 style Master/slave relationship, he could, but he doubted that would be a good fit for either of them. And short of putting her in a bubble, he’d have to accept there were limits to his ability to protect her. “You were trained to walk on eggshells around that asshole. I won’t have you doing it with me, so please tell me when I frighten you. Even if it’s just with a look or my tone of voice.”

She nodded, biting her lip when he reached over to grab a napkin off the tray for her to blow her nose. After she’d composed herself, she slid over to sit on the bed beside him. “You didn’t frighten me really. I guess part of me is still stuck on what I did wrong in my last relationship. I don’t want to ruin what you and I have.”

“You won’t. Besides, you’re feeding me. My mother taught me to be very, very nice to the person who is bringing me food.” She giggled again and the tension eased from where it had gathered between his eyes while trying to get her in a better frame of mind. He ran his hand over her hair. “I owe you a treat. Would you object to a foot rub after breakfast?”

She picked up the paper bag, shaking her head as she pulled out a huge breakfast sandwich with eggs and bacon and cheese on a fat croissant. His mouth watered even as she mumbled something.

He took the sandwich, but he waited to take a bite. “What did you say?”

Her lips thinned. “Doms don’t give foot massages.”

“And subs typically don’t tell their Doms what they can do.” He bit into the sandwich and made a throaty sound of pleasure, wanting her focused on how much he appreciated what she’d done, rather than on her slip of protocol. They’d work on that. Later. “This is amazing. Did you get yourself something?”

“Yes, they had my favorite kind of muffins.” She dipped her hand into the bag. Licked her lips as she held up a chocolate muffin. “Triple chocolate with white chocolate chunks. There’s a bakery right down the street that I always went to when I lived here. They actually sent me a box of them when I moved and told me to visit. They were so happy to see me; they’ve known me since I was a kid.”

Dominik watched the memories play over her face, giving her blue eyes a far-off look and bringing a smile to her lips. All the sadness and fear had been erased from her features. He loved seeing her like this.

“I’d love to check out the bakery if we have a chance while we’re here. I’ve never had chocolate for breakfast, but I’d be willing to try if it’s as good as you say.” Watching her savor the muffin, pinching pieces off and slipping them between her lips before licking her fingers clean gave him a craving for something besides food for breakfast. His dick hardened, completely on board.

He glanced at the clock on the nightstand. Unfortunately, he didn’t have time to indulge before practice. After, however…

Sahara watched him with an impish grin on her lips. She broke off a big piece of muffin. “I usually don’t share, but for you, I’ll make an exception.” She fed him the piece and leaned close, her lips brushing his ear. “Are subs allowed to threaten their Doms? Because if you keep looking at me like that, the Cobras are going to lose their captain for the rest of the day.”

Catching her wrist, he sucked two of her fingers into his mouth.

She inhaled sharply and pressed her eyes shut. “Ugh, it’s too bad I love hockey, or I’d seriously try to make you stay.”

“You can come watch us practice. You’ll have to hurry though if you want to do your hair and makeup and whatever it is you do to get ready.” Dominik made quick work of finishing his sandwich. Only then did he notice Sahara standing in front of him, arms crossed over her chest, a petulant scowl on her lips.

He cocked his head.

She let out an irritated huff, motioning down at her snug gray Batman T-shirt and blue jeans. “You told me to pack light. Now you want me to fuss over my makeup and hair? What’s wrong with how I look?”

Well now, this was certainly no way for a sub to behave. He was half tempted to spank her. Or laugh because she was adorable when she got all riled up. He didn’t want her to lose this beautiful confidence, so a gentle rebuke would be enough.

“There’s nothing wrong with how you look. Those painted-on jeans are fucking hot, and I do believe I have a new fondness for ‘the Batman.’” He rose to stand over her, giving her a little taste of intimidation while watching her carefully to make sure she wasn’t truly afraid. “There’s a habit I have of being considerate to those I care for. I didn’t want to assume you’d be comfortable dressed like that all day. I think you’re perfect as you are.”

“Oh.” She looked appropriately contrite. “I’d be in trouble if you weren’t in a forgiving mood, wouldn’t I?”

He inclined his head. Hell, he was going to have trouble keeping a straight face around this woman. She was practically bouncing on her heels and her lips were quivering as though she was fighting back a laugh.

“I won’t say I’m sorry, because that seems to annoy you. But I’ll try not to forget you think I’m hot.” She hopped up on her tiptoes and kissed his cheek. “We better go. If you’re late, your coach won’t be so nice. And I won’t be allowed to come to games with you anymore.” She pulled out her phone. “I better text Cort and tell him I’m heading to the arena with you. He can go with your brother.”

With that, she headed straight out the door. He followed, shaking his head, more than a little relieved to see she’d returned to her sassy, outgoing self. The insecurities remained beneath the shimmering surface, but he had a feeling they would dissolve over time.

Time was rarely generous though. As soon as he stepped out of his room, he saw her on her phone, a strained expression on her face. He closed the door, keeping pace with her as she began to walk toward the elevator. He couldn’t imagine Cort giving her a hard time, but either way, he had to let her handle this unless she let him know she needed his help.

Before long, it became clear that the caller wasn’t Cort.

“Mother, please don’t try to make me feel bad. This is crazy!” She groaned and rubbed two fingers between her eyes. “We just started dating. We’ll come back to New York eventually. He has practice and—no, you can’t talk to him!”

Dominik pressed the button to call the elevator. He studied her face, curious to know if there was more behind her shaky confidence besides an abusive ex.

“He’ll tell you exactly what I just did. Ask Dad. It’s the playoffs and there’s no time for—” Her throat worked as she swallowed. She didn’t speak until they were past the hotel lobby. “Hi, Daddy. Yes, he’s right here.” Sahara held out the phone, mouthing, “I’m sorry.”

Dominik gave her a mock warning look as he brought the phone to his ear. “Hello?”

“Mr. Mason, I was speaking to my wife this morning, and she mentioned that you’re dating my daughter. Her mother and I are both understandably concerned.” Mr. Dionne continued before Dominik had a chance to agree. “Her mother asked if we could all meet for coffee. Sahara seems anxious that it will conflict with your schedule, but I’m sure you could spare half an hour?”

Not really a request, but Dominik didn’t blame her father for being protective of his daughter. And meeting her parents to ease their fears was more than reasonable.

But Sahara isn’t comfortable with it. This isn’t a decision I’ll make without her. He cleared his throat as they stepped out onto the sidewalk. “I will see what I can do, sir. Can Sahara call you back once I clear things with my coach?”

“Please do.” The call ended.

He handed Sahara her phone. “Is there a reason you don’t want me to meet your parents?”

Her cheeks reddened. “No! It’s…well, don’t you think it’s weird? I mean, meeting the parents happens after you’ve been dating at least a few weeks. Besides, you don’t know my mother. She’ll interrogate you, and you’ll be so fed up when it’s over that you’ll never speak to me again.”

Sliding his hand beneath her ponytail to take a light hold on the back of her neck, he brought her to a stop to face him. “There is absolutely nothing either of your parents can do that will make me leave you.”

“But they—”

“Nothing.” He stroked the side of her neck to soothe her. “I won’t tolerate cheating or lying. Both are things you can control. Nothing else will come between us. Do you understand?”

“Yes.” She closed her eyes, leaning into his touch. “Why do you have to be so wonderful? I keep waiting for the alarm to go off and wake me up.”

He grinned, pulling her close because that deserved a kiss. She was pretty damn wonderful herself.

“Dominik!” A shout from behind, coming from his brother Cameron stopped him with his lips a breath away from Sahara’s.

Rolling his eyes, he put his arm over her shoulder and turned to greet his younger brother. “Your timing is excellent, as usual.”

Baring his teeth in a remorseless smile that proved he’d interrupted to be a jerk, Cam shrugged. “Sorry, Mom just called. She’s meeting you after practice and she wanted me to find you. She got tickets to the game too.”

All right, this is freakin’ hilarious. Dominik burst out laughing, and both Cam and Sahara stared at him like he’d gone nuts. He motioned for Cam to walk with them, since the arena was only five blocks or so from the hotel.

“This isn’t funny, Dominik. You were right, I should have gotten changed.” Sahara gazed back at the hotel longingly. Her foot missed the curb, and Dominik latched on to her waist to keep her from face-planting. Unfortunately, her knee made contact. With a puddle. “Oh my God! I have to go change now! I can’t meet your mother like this!”

She tried to slip out of his grasp. He tightened his grip. “Oh no, you don’t. You come with me. Cam can fetch you a change of clothes.”

Cam sputtered. “I can?”

Dominik smirked and pulled out his key card. “A nice dress maybe? What would you be comfortable in, Sahara?”

Sahara shot him a grateful look. Then gave his brother a sweet smile that melted the big, tattooed man on the spot. “There’s a nice white one with purple flowers. And my white heels and…umm, I can’t wear this bra.” She blushed. “There’s only one other one in my suitcase. Are you sure you don’t—”

“Naw, it’s fine.” Cam gave Dominik a sideways glare, but he was all charm with Sahara. “Not like I haven’t handled bras before. I’m kinda impressed that my brother doesn’t mind me handling yours though.” He winked at Sahara, then took off. “See you in a bit!”

If Dominik didn’t love the cocky bastard, he’d probably strangle him. He sighed and draped his arm back over Sahara’s shoulder. Dealing with his brother was worth seeing her relax a little about the introductions. They would get through the awkward ritual of parental introductions and carry on with their lives.

How bad could it really be?

With a rough inhale, he pulled Sahara a little closer.

You just had to ask that, didn’t you?

* * *

“You must be Sahara.” A tall black woman with kind, golden brown eyes behind wire-frame glasses approached Sahara in the stands by the rink, a broad smile on her lips. Her pale gray pantsuit looked custom-fitted to show off her curves while giving her a professional appearance.

Sahara nodded and stood, not sure whether or not to hold out her hand to shake the woman’s—this was clearly Dominik’s mother, first impressions were important. Before she had a chance to decide, Mrs. Olivia Mason drew her in for a firm hug.

“No need to look so frightened. You should see some of the girls Cameron brings home. The boy has absolutely no taste.” Olivia held Sahara at arm’s length, still smiling. “I’ve seen your shows on the ice. You’re a talented young lady.”

“Thank you, ma’am.” Sahara smiled back, relieved that so far the woman didn’t seem to hate her. “Your sons speak of you often. I know Dominik is thrilled that you were able to come.”

“Ha! No need to humor me, young lady. I heard that your parents insisted on meeting him. My presence is only adding to the pressure on you both, and for that, I apologize.” Olivia lowered into one of the seats and patted the one beside her. She continued when Sahara sat. “Tell me, will your father be hard on my son or will he give him a chance to prove himself?”

Good question. Sahara considered her answer carefully. “Honestly, I don’t know. When I was a teenager, my dad used to invite half his team to hang out at our house before I went on dates.” She shook her head and laughed. At sixteen, she’d been embarrassed by the veiled threats the players aimed at any boy who’d dared to ask her out. She wasn’t a little girl anymore, and she doubted Dominik would be intimidated by the veterans. “I’m a little more worried about my mother completely humiliating me. Or making Dominik uncomfortable. She has…strange ideas about things.”

Olivia nodded slowly. “Perhaps, but she probably just wants to assure herself that you’re in a better place. Mothers don’t always know how to voice their concern without being overbearing. I’ve had mine. Meeting my children’s significant others didn’t always alleviate them, but one hopes simply showing interest will give our babies somewhere to turn when life gets tough.”

“You’re right. And I should be grateful my parents care so much.” It was hard to convince herself her mother really did. Most of the time, unless she could brag about Sahara’s accomplishments, it seemed like she was just dealing with an inconvenience.

Dominik’s mother patted the back of her hand. “Be grateful, but don’t forget that you’re living your own life. Parents don’t always have to approve. And if they disapprove of my son? Well, I fully support you respectfully telling them where to shove it.”

Covering her mouth to smother a giggle, Sahara turned back to the ice to watch Dominik. Practice was almost over, but he was still going hard, working with the trainers on shots and speaking to Sloan during the final stretch led by the rookie, Heath Ladd.

When the men were dismissed, he lingered on the ice, exchanging a few words with different players. But his focus seemed to be on Heath.

The rookie was going around the ice, shoveling pucks toward the net. Which was nice of him, it left less work for the trainers when they went around to pack everything up.

Unfortunately, the backup goalie, Dave Hunt, didn’t see it that way. He snarled something when a stray puck hit his skate, then slammed his shoulder into Heath’s.

Heath opened his mouth, shut it, and turned away. When Hunt grabbed his arm, he tried to twist free.

Dominik skated up to separate the pair. He grabbed Hunt by the front of his shirt, then shoved him toward the bench exit. For a few long moments, he watched Heath continue to clean up the scattered pucks. Shaking his head, he headed off the ice.

“Prepare yourself, my dear. The children have put our boy in a foul mood.” Olivia snickered as she stood. Once they reached the end of the seats, she hooked her arm to Sahara’s. “I think he gets it from Joshua, honestly. That boy… I’m not surprised he’s leading soldiers now. He used to try to quiet down Cam and my girls when they were rowdy. Dominik was the only one who really listened to him. Bless them, I remember coming home after work and seeing them both trying to clean up the mess the others had made.”

Sahara tried to picture Dominik as a little boy. It wasn’t hard to imagine him being serious and responsible. Looking up to his older brother and trying to take care of his mother. “You seem like you’re a very close family.”

“We certainly are.” Olivia put her hand on Sahara’s forearm. “You’ll love Joshua. He’s the perfect gentleman. And smart. He could have done anything he wanted to with his life, but he chose to serve our country. Dominik wanted to as well, but Joshua insisted he play. The military would have been good for Cameron, but I guess it wasn’t meant to be.”

Nodding, Sahara listened to Olivia brag about her children, her daughters, one who’d had beautiful babies and took care of her, the other who was still in law school. She sounded so proud of them all. Which must be amazing. She couldn’t help but wish her mother was a little more like Olivia.

They met Dominik outside the locker room. He had showered and dressed in black slacks and a white shirt. She was glad Cam had brought her a change of clothes, or she would have felt underdressed next to him.

But when his eyes met hers, what she was wearing didn’t seem to matter. He seemed to see more of her. Deep inside, where she was the same girl who wore jeans and scuffed her knees and cried for the stupidest reasons. He saw everything and still smiled and reached out to take her in his arms.

He pressed a kiss on her forehead, then pulled his mother in close on his other side. “I see my two favorite girls have met. And are getting along. That’s good.”

“She’s a sweet little thing. I think I’ll be warning you along with her father to be good to her.” Olivia winked at Sahara, the mischief in her grin making it obvious where Cam got it from. “Where are we joining them?”

Not at a café. Sahara glanced at her phone, wanting to die on the spot as she whispered the answer.

Olivia’s eyes went wide. “That’s one of the most expensive restaurants in New York! How did they even get a reservation?”

“Well, my mother likely name-dropped. My father isn’t a huge name, but my grandfather was. She might have brought up Dominik as well.” Which shouldn’t have come as a shock. Her mother did whatever worked to get what she wanted. “I’m sor—”

“That word, Sahara,” Dominik warned in a slight growl. He grinned at his mother when she frowned at him. “My girl would apologize for a rainy day if I let her. She’s working on it.”

“Good.” Olivia took Sahara’s other arm as Dominik took her hand. “Never you mind, sweetie. I’ve heard the food is delicious, and our boy must be fed before the big game.”

Sahara felt a little better, but that only lasted until they pulled up in front of the restaurant in a cab and opened the door to hear a woman’s shrill voice berating a busboy.

Speaking of first impressions…

“Mom!” Sahara hurried to her mother’s side, drawing her attention from the poor young man who was red-faced and holding up his hands to defend himself. “I’m begging you. Stop.”

“I opened my own door! Do you know how humiliating that is?” Her mother huffed, looking over at the limo idling on the curb. “And your father is no help. He said he’d rather have a smoked meat sandwich! After all the trouble I went to reserving us a table.”

Sahara blinked at the limo. “Is Daddy still in there?”

“Yes! Can you talk to him? I won’t have him spoiling our dinner. Your new man should know who your family is. Have you told him about your grandfather?” She eyed Dominik, who was standing back with his own mother, talking out of the side of his mouth. “He dressed very casually. And so did you. What were you thinking?”

Can I disappear? Is that an option? Sahara hadn’t expected this to be fun, but so far, a nightmare was putting it lightly. “I’ll talk to Daddy. Why don’t you go make sure they have our table ready? They might have forgotten.”

The expression of horror on her mother’s face over the very idea of the table not being ready might be laughable, but it got her rushing inside. Away from Dominik and Olivia. So they wouldn’t have to deal with her alone.

Opening the door to the limo, Sahara slid inside and fell into her father’s arms. “Can we grab Dominik and his mom and just drive away?”

Her father laughed. “I wish. No, cookie, we have to keep her happy. But I have something to tell you which may explain why she’s acting a little crazier than usual.”

A little? Sahara had never seen her mother scream at anyone like she’d been screaming at the busboy. She usually showed her disapproval with sharp little barbs of cruel comments. She’d looked downright unstable out there.

Was her mother sick? Sahara pulled away from her father and hugged herself. If her mother wasn’t doing well, then Sahara was a horrible daughter for even being annoyed at her. But why had he waited to tell her?

“You’re doing that thing you do. I blame your mother for that. It’s not the end of the world.” He sighed. “We’re getting a divorce.”

Her mouth went dry. This was better than her mother having a terminal illness, but…she couldn’t picture her parents apart. Even when her mother nagged and complained and demanded the world, her father took it in stride. He had for as long as Sahara could remember.

“Cookie, we stopped living together when your brother went to play for the juniors. I’ve met someone and…I think she can make me happy. I know I make her happy, and I didn’t realize how much I needed that.” He took her hand and gave it a little squeeze. “I think I was always waiting for you and your brother to grow up and set out on your own. Please don’t hate me.”

“I don’t, but…why come with her today? If you’d asked to meet Dominik on your own, I would have said yes.”

“I know you would have, but your mother and I have an agreement. We keep up pretenses until the divorce is finalized. Since I admitted to infidelity, she gets a bigger share of our assets. She’ll be able to continue the lifestyle she knows.” He took a deep breath. “And I’ll be free.”

Staring down at her hands, Sahara struggled to find the right way to ask the one thing she really needed to know. “Did you cheat on her?”

“No. We were legally separated for two years before I met Debbie—yes, maybe I should have told you, but you were going through so much, and it took every ounce of restraint I have not to hunt down the asshole who hurt you and kill him.” He rubbed a hand over his face. “The only reason I didn’t is because your brother needs me. He’s fired three of his last managers. He’s a bit more like your mother than I want to admit, but he’s young enough to change.”

Fredrick, her brother, was talented, but she couldn’t deny that he had the entitled attitude their mother had taught him. Since he was ten years younger than her, they hadn’t really grown up together. Either she’d been figure skating or playing hockey. Or he’d been out there trying to be the next Dionne in the league.

She wasn’t sure how she felt about her parents’ divorce, but she had to admit, it would be the best thing for her brother. Her mother would stick with her friends, and her father would have a chance to give his son a new outlook on life.

“I’m not mad and I don’t hate you. But do me a favor?” She smiled when he nodded. “Be nice to Dominik. He’s…everything I ever needed. He’s an amazing man, and he really cares about me.”

“Agreed, but if he ever lays a hand on you…” Her father cupped her cheek. “I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you.”

She tugged at her bottom lip with her teeth. “I get why Dominik hates me using that word. Don’t be sorry. I made my own mistakes and I’m stronger now. Of all the things I’ve done in my life, I’m prouder of the day I walked out that door than anything else.”

They left the car and went inside when they saw both Dominik and his mother already had. The hostess led them to their table. Which was surprisingly quiet.

Olivia gave Sahara a sympathetic smile as Dominik pulled out her chair.

Sahara sat, smoothing her hands over her skirt.

Her mother being quiet was a good sign. Maybe the worst had passed.

* * *

Gulping back her third glass of wine since she’d sat down, Sahara’s mother leaned forward and giggled. Dominik hated that Sahara had to see the woman like this, but there wasn’t much he could do except be a sounding board for all her frustrations when this was over. Even if it meant he’d have to ease out each and every word of how hurt and embarrassed and ashamed she’d been.

“Grant Higgins thought he was such an amazing man, but after four years with my daughter, he never managed to knock her up? He clearly didn’t want to marry her, but a baby would have been nice. She’d be set.” Sahara’s mother reached for another glass of wine. Her husband pulled it out of reach. She grabbed Sahara’s glass of water and gulped it down. “Those people commenting on your pictures are right though. Have you ever considered what you’ll be putting your children through? The world can be cruel to the mixed. Even the bible says ‘let the Jews stay with the Jews and the Gentiles stay with the Gentiles.’”

Between Sahara’s shocked expression and the way her father went perfectly still and stared at his wife like he’d never seen her before, the blatant ignorance the woman was spouting was something new. Many of her words were exactly what had been written in the comments he’d asked Sahara not to read.

“You don’t actually believe that, Mother.” Sahara pressed her fist against her lip as though she physically needed to hold in her words. When she lowered her fist to the table, it was clear she’d decided to speak her mind. “Daddy just told me about the divorce. You’re unhappy, and I’m sorry that you’re suffering. But the things you’re saying are disgusting.”

“Disgusting? My dear, you don’t seem to understand the world. Either you’re hiding bruises or choosing a man who will condemn your children to a hard life.”

“If you keep this up, you’ll have nothing to do with my children if I ever decide to have them! Half of the reason I hid the bruises was because I knew how ashamed you’d be if I didn’t!” Sahara slammed her hand down on the table. “Grant beat me. I’d rather he’d have killed me than have given him a child to hurt as well.”

Dominik pushed away from the table, feeling sick to his stomach at the cool way the woman was regarding her daughter. He held his hand out to Sahara. “Let’s go.”

Sahara took his hand, then turned to his mother. “I’m so sorry. I was afraid this might be awkward, but…I wasn’t expecting this.”

His mother shook her head, already moving to Sahara’s other side without even acknowledging Sahara’s mother, who was hissing something to her father. The man had his head in his hands and seemed to have mentally and emotionally retreated from the entire situation.

“Remember what I told you, Sahara.” His mother hooked her arm to Sahara’s. “You told her where to shove it. Well done. Now let’s go find my boy something to eat.”

They made it to the door before Sahara’s father caught up with them. Sahara was holding back tears and shaking. The man should have gone to his daughter first. But he put his hand on Dominik’s arm.

“That wasn’t fair to either of you. My wife considers news spreading of Sahara being beaten by her ex an embarrassment. I consider it a failure. I wasn’t there for her, so there was no reason for her to come to me. I spent her childhood either playing the game or wishing I still could.” His eyes narrowed as he met Dominik’s. “If that’s all you can give her, let her go. She’s been through enough.” He shook his head. “If not…well, you may not have been ‘dating’ long, but there’s been speculation about you and my daughter for quite some time. Her mother may be obsessing over future grandchildren. All I care about is that you do not play games with my little girl.”

Dominik gave the man a stiff smile. “She’s not a little girl anymore, Mr. Dionne. And thankfully, she no longer needs you to protect her. I owe you nothing, but I assure you, I’m not playing games.”

“Then what are your intentions? Will you marry her?”

So far, the discussions had gone to kids and marriage. Neither had Dominik panicking, but he wanted to keep the pressure off Sahara. She needed to know what a normal relationship—with a bit more negotiating—looked like before they approached either subject.

His mother adored her after only a couple of hours. So he could leave them together while he settled this clusterfuck.

“If we reach that point, I will be sure to let you know. Now, I have to go prepare for the game tonight. Please make sure your wife doesn’t show up at the arena. With how much she had to drink, I doubt security will let her through the door.” He’d damn well make sure they didn’t if he had to. Maybe he should clear this with Sahara, but she needed someone who had her best interests at heart. And that would always be him, no matter who else should be first in line. “I’ll leave you to say goodbye to your daughter.”

“Of course.” Sahara’s father hunched his shoulders and crossed the distance between him and his daughter. He hugged her, but he didn’t say much. The man seemed completely lost.

But Sahara squeezed him tightly. Assured him everything was fine.

She told Dominik’s mother the same after they dropped her off at her hotel. Since Dominik was with Sahara, Cort wasn’t busy. And he’d been perfectly comfortable making sure Dominik’s mother got to the arena for the game.

Dominik grabbed one of the team’s rentals and drove Sahara around the city for a while, giving her the time she needed to say what was on her mind.

“My mother texted me.” She laughed, but it was one of the saddest sounds he’d ever heard. Choked and strained. As though she was making it just for him. “If we get married, she’ll pay half. And she saw the perfect wedding dress.”

There were so many things he could say. He could assure her that it would be a long time before they had to worry about her mother’s involvement in their nonexistent wedding. He could tell her she’d look beautiful in any dress. He could change the subject.

But he expected her to be honest. So he said the first thing that came to his mind. “If we ever get married, we’re eloping to Vegas. Jami and Akira can come with their men. But that’s it.”

Sahara let out a bubbly laugh and rested her head on his shoulder as he drove aimlessly, his only destination somewhere that he could return from in time to hit the ice.

“If you ever propose, tell me that again.” She exhaled slowly, brokenly, making him want to hold her and tell the rest of the world to fuck off. “And I’ll say yes.”

He reached for her hand and held it tightly. It was way too soon, but her words made the idea of asking one day that much more real.