Heated Rivalry (Game Changers, #2)

by Rachel Reid

have ruined you,” Rozanov said when they broke apart. “No one else will do.”

He knew making plans to end this was pointless. As long as this was being offered, Shane would never be able to say no.

For the rest of his life, Shane Hollander would have to live with the fact that he had ended his NHL draft day by getting himself off to thoughts of Ilya Rozanov.

He probably should have been focusing more on the puck and less on bothering Hollander, because he lost their first face-off. And that was something he’d never get back.

“Thanks,” Shane said, because he had to say something. “I feel overdressed.” “Yes. We both are,” Rozanov said, and he pulled his T-shirt off over his head before bending to remove

“Come here,” Rozanov said. “No. You come here.” Rozanov grinned and shook his head, and stepped toward Shane. Shane must have taken a step forward himself because they kind of crashed into each other.

And Shane left. He realized, when he was back in his room, that they hadn’t even kissed. He also realized, with horror, that he regretted that.

And it only took him a second longer to realize the man she had her arms around—who had his hands on her waist—was Shane Hollander. Fuck it.

fucking nightclub! If he couldn’t be safe from Hollander there, then where?

Hollander could actually keep up with Ilya, and it was like they were reading each other’s minds when they passed the puck. They had barely had any time to practice together; they just clicked in a way Ilya never had with any other player. It was exhilarating.

“and on top of everything, I’m pretty sure I’m in love with you and I don’t know what to do about it.”

“We’re not alone,” Shane slurred. “Ilya. They can see us.”

“I want to sleep in your bed, Shane Hollander,” Ilya murmured. “I want to do lots of things in my bed.” “Show me. Take me to bed.”

“Mine.” Ilya’s breath tickled Shane’s skin when he spoke the single word. “Yours,” Shane said dreamily. “All of this. For two weeks. Is mine.” Forever, Shane wanted to say. Forever if you ask.

was so bold and fearless and so...Ilya.

“I love you.” “I love you too.” “Mm. Can you say it in Russian again?” Ilya pulled Shane’s hand to his lips and kissed his fingers. “Ya lyublyu tebya.” “Ya-loo-blue-tee-baa,” Shane murmured back. Ilya laughed, and turned off the lamp.

and coughing. “Oh, wow,” Shane said. “That is strong. I might need some cranberry juice or something.” “If you mix that with cranberry juice I will drown you in the lake.”

Ilya grabbed his hand and pulled him close. “I want to tell you, before we do this, that I am...very happy today. My mother would have really liked this. And I think she is with me today. And proud.” Oh, oops. Now Shane’s eyes were glistening. “She has so many reasons to be proud of you, Ilya.” Ilya smiled at him. “I need to kiss you here, or else I will do it out there.”

“Then I will fake my own death. We will move to a cabin in the mountains.” Shane shook his head. “I’m being serious.” “I am serious. If we hide forever, or tell the world right now, I am with you. I will quit hockey, or fight to stay. Whatever you want.” “It shouldn’t be only my decision.” Ilya sighed. “I mean... I am yours, yes? To protect that, I will do anything.” Shane’s eyes went gooey. “You’re mine. Yes.”