Stubborn Puckboy (Puckboys, #9)

by Eden Finley

“Then … I don’t know. Scowl at him a bunch. Give him the evil eye.” “I do not scowl.” “And I’m not a former fuckboy. This game is fun.”

“I don’t hate you. My issue with you was …” He averts his gaze. “The complete opposite of hating you.” Wait, what?

It is dangerous to say this in public, but my options were to drive us to a deserted underground parking lot or here, and for some reason, Americans get edgy in dark places.

“Scare me like that again, and I will drive you to an abandoned parking lot.” “Ah … come again?” When I smile, I make sure to do it on the outside this time. “Just a promise.”

Maybe that’s why I’ve been so on edge about whether or not he was working here. Colby Kessinger was the first and last man I let myself care about.

It’s only once I reach my locker that I realize it looks like I was running away from him. Radimir Novicov doesn’t run from anyone. Not even messy, sexy, annoying men who I wish had stayed in my past.

“Because I see the way you look at me, Novi. It’s the exact same way I look at you.”

Kissing Colby might be better than hockey.

“It was special because it was with you.” Damn, if that’s not the most perfect thing he could’ve said.

All that matters is that when I open my eyes again and meet Novi’s gaze, he’s smiling in a way I’ve never seen him smile before. It’s official. I’m claiming it. That smile belongs to me.

I don’t want him to have a heart attack. I need his heart. I’m going to win it one day.

“I feel like this is American sarcasm, but then I remember how much you want me, and I am mistaken.”

I want all of it with Colby, and if I try to picture a future that doesn’t have him in it, the sadness is unbearable. He’s the only one I’ve ever wanted, and I hope that never changes.

“Fine. You’re amazing. But that’s the last time you’re amazing alone.” “Da. From now on, we’re amazing together.”