Square to the Puck (Offsides #2)

by J.J. Mulder

“I’m parked over here.” I tip my head to the right, directing his gaze. I step out into the rain without waiting for a reply and listen for the soft footsteps that let me know he’s following. He’s right behind me when I step into a small alley between the buildings, and turn to face him. “I don’t think you’re supposed to park down here.” His gaze is narrowed, searching for my car in the dark. I bark out a laugh, shaking my head. Damnit, I wanted to hate you so fucking bad. “No,” I concede, smiling. “This area is definitely not for parking.” The building’s overhang shelters both sides of the alley, rain only coming through right in the center, with Corwin on one side, me on the other. His image is distorted slightly, as I look at him through the downpour. I step forward until I’m directly in front of him, water still splattering my back but otherwise sheltered with him. The top half of his shirt is soaked, clinging to his chest and outlining his collarbone. Rain is carving delicate paths down his face, and when I reach out to brush a drop away with my thumb his eyes widen. “I—” He stops, mouth parted slightly. I wait, but he doesn’t continue, only looks at me through large, unreadable eyes. It’s too dark for me to see the blue, and I make a mental note to keep the lights on when I finally get him home and in my bed. I place my hand more firmly against his face, palm to cheek and fingers sliding into the hair around his ear. This time I swipe my thumb across his mouth, catch...