Pucking Wild (Jacksonville Rays, #2)

by Emily Rath

“You were watching?” “Of course. You’re really impressive, Ryan. You may just be my favorite Ray to watch.” The caveman in me sits up and beats his chest at being complimented by her. Not that I need her praise to know I’m talented. “Careful, Tess,” I tease. “Don’t go giving yourself away now.” “Giving myself away?” “Yeah. Clearly, you’ve got a crush on me.” She scoffs. “You wish, hockey boy.” “Admiring my skill and speed…watching my hands as I work my stick down the ice…” She rolls her eyes. “Can’t take your eyes off me,” I press, leaning closer. “Can’t stop that excited little fluttering of your heart each time I take a shot on goal.” “You’re delusional,” she deadpans. But I see the little smile at the corner of her mouth. “It’s cute, really,” I say, straightening myself out. “I’m flattered.” “I did this to myself. Never compliment a professional athlete,” she says with a shake of her head. “Always compliment an athlete,” I counter. “It’s the fastest way to our hearts.” “I thought the fastest way to an athlete’s heart was food,” she teases back. “True,” I reply. “There’s probably little I wouldn’t do for some homemade mac and cheese.”