Sleet Kitten (Sleet, #1)

by S.J. Tilly

Except now he’s looking at my hand. And that’s when it dawns on me... This might be his place. Not only because he’s huge, fit, and could for sure be a professional athlete, but also because he seems very at home down here. He knew about this room. He’s not looking like this is his first time down here. Find what you’re looking for? This is his room. His home. His homemade caramels. Shit.

Lmao

“I’m not really sure where to go from here. I’ve never found a girl like you in my place before, trying my mama’s caramels, making herself at home.” He pauses. “You sure you should be eating those?”

Okay asshole

“I may not be the perfection that you’re used to, like all the gorgeous creatures upstairs. And I may have come into your library uninvited, but that doesn’t give you the right to make me feel like I’m less.” I straighten my spine. “I’m sorry for disrupting your evening.”

Get him girl

He doesn’t let go of my arm. “I have a sister I’ve pissed off more times than I can count. Seeing your reaction, and replaying my own words back in my mind, I think that maybe there was some miscommunication between us.” He gives my arm a little tug, causing me to turn back toward him. He leans in to make sure I’m looking in his eyes before he continues. “You, my little Kitten, have some claws hidden in that enticing package. And right now, I’m looking at the only gorgeous creature that has captured my attention tonight.’

Oh my god

“Yeah, Kitten. You’re equal parts little and fierce. It seemed appropriate.”

“Thank you for your hospitality tonight. I know Daniel really appreciated that you opened your home to him.” Something flashes in his eyes. “Daniel... as in - the man of the hour? Are you two close?”

Jealoussss

He calls his mom mama. Melt.

“Well, you’re in for a treat.” He looks at me for an extra beat. “I think my pops woulda liked you.” This guy. One little comment and just like that, all the bumblebees land in my stomach.

He hums, pulling the blanket toward him. But instead of passing it over to me, he just lays it across his own lap. “I agree with you.” Then he lifts the edge of the blanket closest to me in blatant invitation. I give him side-eye in return. “Kitten, I’m not trying to pull a fast one on you. But this is the best and softest blanket in the whole house. Trust me when I say that it, combined with me, will keep you plenty warm.” He holds my gaze for a beat, then adds. “I promise to remain a perfect gentleman.”

I’m not sure when my little Kitten fell asleep, but it was fairly soon after the movie started. My Kitten. When did I become such a sap?

I haven’t been able to focus on a damn thing since my senses were overwhelmed with the scent and warmth of her being near me.

but sitting down here with a cute Kitten snuggled into my side is preferable to being alone in my bed.

I would’ve said they’re a fool. But now I feel like the fool because here Kitten is, still in my arms, and I’m already worrying about how I’m going to see her again.

Okay i love him

but her smile was what made me stop and watch.

I’m no prude, but I do like a little left to the imagination. Especially once I make a woman mine. I don’t need every other man with eyes taking in more than they need to. Okay, so I’m not a prude, but I’m aware I can be a bit of a caveman when it comes to the people I claim.

I was stunned into silence when I realized it was the same woman. I had already been kicking myself about not approaching her upstairs. Now was my chance to make up for that mistake.

But this Kitten caught my eye. And there is no denying she has some sort of special pull on me.

This here is something else.”

Luckily, I had my face buried so far into his body that there was no way he could have seen me. And fuck, what a body. It’s a real body. Big and burly and strong and warm and big.

My stirring must have woken him, because he slowly blinked his eyes open and looked down at me. It was the most adorably adorable thing I had ever witnessed.

And you’re a feisty little vixen, and I know that I like that about you.”

“Goodnight, Kitten. Sweet dreams.”

It’s blue and green, with a storm-cloud logo, and the words Minnesota Sleet across the front. Turning it over I see the number 33 with Wilder written above.

Omg he sent her his jersey

Dearest Kitten, I was having a fairly dull evening last night, until you wandered into it. If you’re not otherwise occupied, I would like to have you in the stands tonight at my game. Hopefully cheering me on. I got the feeling that maybe you aren’t a hockey fan, so I included something for you to wear. There are usually a couple of people wearing my jersey, so don’t worry about everyone knowing that we slept together last night just because you’re wearing my name. Yours, Mr. Fuck Hot

See, I studied. I know there are three periods in a game. I also learned that Jackson Wilder is a big damn deal.

If this guy invites you to his game the very next day after meeting, I’d say it’s safe to assume he’s interested in being more than friends.”

While the arena goes wild, Jackson skates past, looks right at me, and winks. My heart stops. He’s smiling,

Little Kitten, I know I’ve already taken up a lot of your time tonight with this game, but I’m greedy. Please come to our after-game gathering at The Den. It’s a bar not too far from here. I have to arrive with the team, or else I would offer you a ride. Your Player

Your player goes crazy

“Jackson, I’d like you to meet my new friend Mary.” Hearing her name, Mary turns to face us. At the same time Mary says, “Jacky!” … Jackson questions, “Mama?”

Lmaoooo

“Hey. Aren’t you the one who greeted our boy Wilder with a hug?” He tosses a thumb over his shoulder, gesturing towards the entrance. “Yeah, that’s me.” I grab the drink from his hand and toss it back in one go. Coughing a little I hand him back the glass. He chuckles as my eyes start to water. I think that was straight whiskey. I shake it off. “Long story short, I need you to stall him if he comes over this way. I’m going to make a break for it out the back, and I think there’s a good chance he’ll try to stop me.” I dig out a twenty from my pocket and tuck it in his hand next to the empty glass he’s still holding. The smile on this guy’s face just keeps growing. “Now why would you be trying to escape?”

Teaaaaa. I bet the friends having a field day with this

He looks up in Jackson’s direction and then back to me. “I think you’re right about him being pissed. But I don’t think the look on his face is about you talking to his mama. I think he’s pissed about you over here talking to me.”

Moving closer he drops his voice. “Please don’t punch me.” He places a hand on my shoulder, turning my back more toward Jackson. “I am definitely going to help you, because Wilder is definitely going to follow you.” He bends closer still. “And me getting close to you like this is proving my point. Based on the look he’s giving me, I’d say that fucker is already planning my death.” He laughs. “And I don’t need your money, but this bill is going to play into the little plan I have.”

This is such a fave scene of mine

my girl

Then Kitten surprises me with that glorious hug. I was not prepared for that level of contact. And feeling her warm, soft body pressed against mine had my brain going haywire.

all I could focus on was the brush of her lips across my cheek as she spoke. When she grabbed my hand and started walking, she could’ve been leading me to my own execution. I would’ve followed her anywhere after a whisper from those lips.

As she starts to walk away, I see him fold something and put it in his pocket. Luke might be one of my best friends, but tonight he’s a fucking dead man.

I know he saw her hug me when we walked in the door. That should have been enough to invoke bro-code. But since it apparently wasn’t, I’m about to make it crystal clear.

Luke gives a satisfied smirk before he says, “Hey, brother, what’s up?” Getting right in his face, I seethe, “How about you tell me. What the fuck were you doing with your filthy hands all over Katelyn? And what the fuck is in your pocket?” “Woah, dude, chill!” Luke puts his hands up in placation. “Who the hell is Katelyn?” “Who is . . . seriously? The woman you were just talking to. You had your greasy palms on her while you were breathing down her neck.” “Oh, you mean that brunette chick? The one with the nice ass?”

Ohhhh hes pushing limits

Pulling out the top card, I see a photo of Mary. Flipping it over, I see that the back has been printed with Mama—Mary Wilder. Reaching in for the next card I find a pretty blonde and on the back it reads Sister—Stephanie Wilder. I don’t even try to contain the stupid grin that spreads across my face. This guy. He is so many things, but right now the only word that comes to mind is wonderful. Jackson is wonderful. Pulling out the rest of the stack, I find cards for his late father, his ninety-four-year-old grandmama, his best friend Luke, and his childhood dog Puck. The man has made me real-life flashcards of the important people in his life.

This is so cute omg

I’d like to have a chance to control our environment. Please tell me you’re free for dinner tomorrow night, at my place. If you’re up for it, I was thinking we could give The Godfather another try. In the meantime, I thought I’d put together some study material for you. I know how much you like to read. Sincerely, Mama’s Boy

I drove Mama home and she talked about my girl the whole time.

Expecting to see Luke and Coach standing in the kitchen, it takes me a moment to orient myself to the new scene. Luke is sitting at the dining table with Kitten. And my sister. And my mama.

Lmao its a party

“I was told that I need to make my intentions clear. So, this is me, being clear. This is me making sure you understand exactly what I want.” He lowers another inch, putting his face to the side of mine so he’s speaking directly into my ear. “I will make you my girl, Kitten. I promise you that. But I’m going to take my time in doing so. I’m going to wait until you’re ready for me.” His cheek brushes against mine.

But fuck, woman, make no mistake, you’re mine.”

“Get all the fucking high fives from all the fucking hot guys.” She’s including both teams on this. According to Meghan, hotness knows no geographical bounds, and she will not limit herself based on our misguided American fanaticism.

Lmaooo meeee

I can’t help the smile that spreads across my face. Without overthinking it, I blow him a kiss. He grins. I melt.

I feel honest-to-god tears pricking my eyes. I’m so happy for Jackson right now. I know the actual amount of time we’ve spent together can be measured in hours, not weeks or even days, but I feel like I know him. I feel like I know the person that Jackson is inside, and that person is a man who puts family and responsibilities at the top of his priority list. He's funny, kind, charming, sexy-as-sin, and - to my absolute delight - he has a bit of a mouth on him. He just also happens to be a very talented professional hockey player, who is adored by thousands upon thousands of fans. I can’t even imagine what it feels like to be him in these moments. But he’s earned it.

I love her shes so cute

Before I can think of how to get out of this situation, a loud crash startles everyone in our section. My eyes jerk towards the noise. Jackson is right in front of us, at the back wall behind the bench, helmet in hand, still where he slammed against the glass, giving Frat Boy a death stare. I can almost hear the words as I read them off his lips: “Back. The. Fuck. Off!”

Jackson turns his sights on me. He holds my gaze for a beat, then winks, and turns to get back on the ice. Be still my belly full of bumblebees.

“Holy shit, that was hot!” Meghan shouts before she leans over to look past the other girls so she can see me. “Sorry doll, but I totally just got turned on by your man.” A lady in the row ahead of us turns around. “Me too.” Meghan high-fives her.