Don't Let Me Go (Don't Let Me Go #2)

by Kelsie Rae

“Besides. Colt’s not the one you have to worry about,” Mia adds, stealing my attention from the daunting house in front of me. “Theo’s gonna shit his pants.” Theo. Also known as Theodore Taylor. He might be my brother’s best friend, but he’s also LAU’s hockey captain and my arch-nemesis. Kind of.

He motions to the table. “But we’re gonna play on the same side of the table.” “Why?” “‘Cause I’m afraid you might fall over after a round or two. Gotta keep you within arm’s length so I can catch you in case you pass out.”

Growing up around hockey players has taught me a few things. One. They hang out in packs. Two. They’re cocky as shit. Three. They’re always looking to hook up. And four. They’re flirty little buggers. That’s for sure.

“I almost forgot.” I drop my hand to my side but crane my neck up, forcing myself to hold his gaze. “Forgot what?” “I almost forgot my dick is the first one you’ve ever seen up close.” His laugh turns darker. Richer. Sharper. Making my belly tighten. “I almost feel sorry for you now.” “Because it’s so pathetic?” I offer. “Nah, because whatever guy takes your cherry is only gonna be a disappointment if you think any of them will live up to the beast between my legs.”

She owned up to her long, curly red hair in elementary school when Colt and I threatened to beat the hell out of anyone who made fun of her for it. Now, it almost reaches her lower back, and even though it’s usually piled on top of her head in a messy bun, tonight it’s hanging around her shoulders, making her look even more wild and free than usual.

When he asked why she hadn’t dated anyone, she told him she’s picky. His response? “Keep being picky. ‘Cause no matter who you bring home, he won’t be good enough for you. And we both know me and your other brothers will have no issue reminding him.”

“I do care about Blake,” he tells me. “And I’m here for her in case she needs me. But she’s a big girl, man. And she was raised with three older brothers who taught her how to bring a guy to his knees if he ever tried anything she didn’t want.”

“I think you want a guy who pushes you. A guy who eggs you on. A guy who doesn't let you barrel over him. Someone who looks at you like an equal. Someone who challenges you.” I pull back, surprised by his assessment. “Oh, really?” “Yeah. It’s why you haven’t had sex yet.” “Because I haven’t found a guy who challenges me?” I laugh, but he doesn’t join in. “You want a guy who can break you, Blake,” he rasps, his voice low and gritty and shooting straight to my core. “One who grabs you by the throat and squeezes as he enters you. One who treats you like you aren’t made of glass. You’re different than other girls.”

Because one, holy shit it’s hot. And two, he’s right. I’ve never been like most girls. I’ve never wanted to be like most girls. Even growing up, I liked boy things. Ninja turtles. Indiana Jones. Football. I hated My Little Pony, Barbies, and American Girl dolls.

I shrug her off and disappear through the basement door without a backward glance. It’s a dick move. I could’ve at least lied and made up an excuse. But I don’t have time to make a puck bunny feel better about me ditching her, and I can’t take it anymore. I pissed Blake off. And a pissed-off Blake is capable of anything. Including sleeping with a guy just to prove she can, knowing it’ll get under my skin.

I can do hard things. Even if it includes facing the guy who took my virginity with zero intention of claiming my heart with it.

Don’t get me wrong. I love having older brothers. But sisters who watch your back? After moving in with these girls, I can definitely see the appeal.

Pissed-off Theo is not for the faint of heart. I definitely prefer my Teddy Bear.

Me: Is this you trying to prove you like me? Theo: One cinnamon treat at a time ‘cause my girl likes to keep things spicy. ;)

Me: I’m not sure if you’ve been hit in the head one too many times, but I’m not your girl. Theo: You’ve always been my girl. Sorry it took me so long to see it.

I guess I shouldn’t be surprised he finally managed to track me down. He’s been texting at least every hour and even cornered me at The Bean Scene yesterday, offering to walk me to my car. I looped my arm through Colt’s and said he’d take care of it. Thankfully, my brother was a gem and didn’t bat an eye.

Blake collapses next to me on the field, a wide smile of satisfaction stretched across her face. Our past doesn’t matter in this moment. The shit I put her through doesn’t matter. Nothing does. Because she’s riding the high from beating my ass fair and square, and we both know it.

“One of these days, you’re gonna let me repay the favor,” she murmurs, watching me while I lean closer to her center and breathe her in. Looking up at her, I kiss her pubic bone and counter, “One of these days, I’m gonna stop fucking up and will feel like I actually deserve your mouth on my dick.”