Cleat Catcher (The Cleat Chaser Duet Book 2)

by Celia Aaron

  “Have you ever heard of a little something called a jinx?” Kasey slapped him on the side of his head. “I’m not going to say what I really think lest the baseball gods come down on us. So just agree with me that we’re fucked.”

  “Totally fucked.” He nodded.

  The umpire yelled to get the game going, and the crowd roared with approval. My stomach twisted in a knot as Braden hunkered down behind the plate and Parham took the mound.

  “How long do you think it will take for them to score a goal?” My mom stowed her fan and pulled out her phone.

  “Mom, pay attention. This is important to me.” I took my seat next to her. “And to Braden.”

  Braden had managed to smooth over the ruffled feathers from his first meeting with my parents. We’d spent the Christmas break in Florida at my parents’ house. He’d charmed them with his baseball tales to the point that even Mom warmed to him. It didn’t hurt that she’d discovered the number of zeroes attached to the end of his salary as starting catcher for the Ravens. I hadn’t heard so much as a peep from her about Carter since the incident outside the restaurant.

  “And please don’t ever say ‘score a goal’ in the ballpark ever again.” My dad’s eyes were bright and focused on the game.

  “Or whatever it is they do.” She waved her hand at the batter who swung and missed on his first pitch.

  Braden threw the ball back to Parham and squatted back behind the plate. Two more strikes, and the hitter was out.

  It was an almost even game for the first few innings. But in the sixth, when Braden knocked in two runs with a shot down the first base line, the Ravens went up by four. The stadium relaxed, though opening day excitement still maintained a hum of adrenaline.

  “I’m going to get some more beer.” Kasey stood during the seventh inning stretch. “Anyone want?”

  Ben scrambled to his feet. “I’ll go with you.”

  Kasey put a hand to his chest. “No thanks. Your trouser snake will scare away all the pussy. I can’t have you cramping my game.”

  Mom slapped Kasey’s leg. “Honestly. Do you really have to be so vulgar all the time?”

  Kasey smirked. “Yeah, pretty much. So, you feeling a Bud, Mrs. Graves?”

  Mom sighed. “I’ll have a Stella in a nice glass. If they don’t have a nice glass, make sure whatever they put it in is clean.”

  “Yes, ma’am. I’ll spit shine it myself if I have to.” Kasey took the stadium steps two at a time, and Ben sank down next to me.

  I patted his knee. “It’s never going to happen. You know this, right?”

  “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” He trained his eyes on Parham, whose arm was starting to fade.

  “Kasey is a poon-hound. Trust me. Remember when she groped my tits on national TV?”

  “Yeah.” He snorted. “That was pretty funny.”

  “That’s who she is. You aren’t going to change her. Trust me.”

  “I guess you’re right. She’s just so …”

  “Not for you.” I kept my tone emphatic.

  “I got it loud and clear. I have plenty of other prospects.” He shrugged. “Kasey isn’t the only poon-hound around here.”

  I pretended to vomit. “Yick.”

  Kyrie jumped up and darted to the net. “Easton’s coming out!”

  “I knew he liked the cock all along.” Kasey had returned and handed a beer to my mother.

  She took a big swig of her own and smacked Kyrie on the ass as she walked past.

  Kyrie shot her a glare. “You know what I mean.”

  Braden stood and ran out to the mound to greet him. But halfway there, he took an odd step. My breath caught in my throat. I watched in horror as he collapsed, his knee giving way. Mom clutched my hand.

  “Shit.” Kasey drew out the word as Easton ran to Braden.

  Easton hit the turf and felt around on Braden’s knee as his teammates began to draw in closer. I couldn’t blink, my eyes riveted on Braden as he gripped his knee and rolled back and forth. The Coach came from the dugout and called time while he went to investigate. Please no, please no, please God no.

  The Coach bent over and had a word before backing away and talking to the ump. Easton got to his feet, then helped Braden onto his good leg. He hobbled a few steps, until Easton scooped him up and threw him over his shoulder.

  Instead of walking to the dugout, Easton carried him to the wall at the edge of the net. I dashed over and pushed through the fans with Kyrie right behind me. My eyes watered as Easton set Braden down on his good leg.

  Leaning over the brick wall, I saw the tears in his eyes. Then he fell, dropping to his knee. Easton followed him down, both of them sobbing, their faces turned toward the grass.

  “Oh my God, is it that bad?” I put a hand to my mouth.

  “It’s really bad, Nik.” Braden’s voice shook.

  I clenched my eyes shut as dread washed through me. Had the MCL finally pulled all the way free?

  “A game changer.” Easton slapped Braden on the back.

  “A show stopper. All over, man. For the both of us.”

  They reached into their pockets.

  My brain couldn’t process it. Why were they on their knees and holding velvet ring boxes? The crowd around me began to titter and yell, and then the entire stadium started cheering as my shocked face was broadcast on the giant monitors. Kyrie gripped my elbow as we both stared down at the tricksters in the grass holding diamond rings.

  “Fuckbags been running a game on us.” Kasey leaned on the brick wall to get a better view of Braden and Easton and the rings they offered. “Nice hardware, though. Someone with excellent taste must have helped pick them out.” She gave a self-satisfied smirk.

  I swallowed hard, and Kyrie began to tremble at my side.

  Easton grinned. “Kyrie—”

  Braden grinned even bigger. “Nikki—”

  In unison they asked, “Will you marry me?”

  Sign up for our newsletters to be the first to know about new releases and giveaways (no spam, just goodies).

  Celia Aaron’s Newsletter

  Sloane Howell’s Newsletter

  Dark Romance by Celia Aaron

  SINCLAIR

  The Acquisition Series, Prologue

  Sinclair Vinemont, an impeccable parish prosecutor, conducts his duties the same way he conducts his life--every move calculated, every outcome assured. When he sees something he wants, he takes it. When he finds a hint of weakness, he capitalizes. But what happens when he sees Stella Rousseau for the very first time?

  COUNSELLOR

  The Acquisition Series, Book 1

  In the heart of Louisiana, the most powerful people in the South live behind elegant gates, mossy trees, and pleasant masks. Once every ten years, the pretense falls away and a tournament is held to determine who will rule them. The Acquisition is a crucible for the Southern nobility, a love letter written to a time when barbarism was enshrined as law.

  Now, Sinclair Vinemont is in the running to claim the prize. There is only one way to win, and he has the key to do it—Stella Rousseau, his Acquisition. To save her father, Stella has agreed to become Sinclair’s slave for one year. Though she is at the mercy of the cold, treacherous Vinemont, Stella will not go willingly into darkness.

  As Sinclair and Stella battle against each other and the clock, only one thing is certain: The Acquisition always ends in blood.

  MAGNATE

  The Acquisition Series, Book 2

  Lucius Vinemont has spirited me away to a world of sugar cane and sun. There is nothing he cannot give me on his lavish Cuban plantation. Each gift seduces me, each touch seals my fate. There is no more talk of depraved competitions or his older brother – the one who’d stolen me, claimed me, and made me feel things I never should have. Even as Lucius works to make me forget Sinclair, my thoughts stray back to him, to the dark blue eyes that haunt my sweetest dreams and bitterest nightmares. Just like every dream, this one must end. Christmas will soon
be here, and with it, the second trial of the Acquisition.

  SOVEREIGN

  The Acquisition Series, Book 3

  The Acquisition has ruled my life, ruled my every waking moment since Sinclair Vinemont first showed up at my house offering an infernal bargain to save my father’s life. Now I know the stakes. The charade is at an end, and Sinclair has far more to lose than I ever did. But this knowledge hasn’t strengthened me. Instead, each revelation breaks me down until nothing is left but my fight and my rage. As I struggle to survive, only one question remains. How far will I go to save those I love and burn the Acquisition to the ground?

  Sports Romance by Celia Aaron

  Kicked

  Trent Carrington.

  Trent Mr. Perfect-Has-Everyone-Fooled Carrington.

  He’s the star quarterback, university scholar, and happens to be the sexiest man I’ve ever seen. He shines at any angle, and especially under the Saturday night stadium lights where I watch him from the sidelines. But I know the real him, the one who broke my heart and pretended I didn’t exist for the past two years.

  I’m the third-string kicker, the only woman on the team and nothing better than a mascot. Until I’m not. Until I get my chance to earn a full scholarship and join the team as first-string. The only way I’ll make the cut is to accept help from the one man I swore to never trust again. The problem is, with each stolen glance and lingering touch, I begin to realizing that trusting Trent isn’t the problem. It’s that I can’t trust myself when I’m around him.

  Short Sexy Reads by Celia Aaron

  A Stepbrother for Christmas

  The Hard and Dirty Holidays

  Annalise dreads seeing her stepbrother at her family’s Christmas get-together. Niles had always been so nasty, tormenting her in high school after their parents had gotten married. British and snobby, Niles did everything he could to hurt Annalise when they were younger. Now, Annalise hasn’t seen Niles in three years; he’s been away at school in England and Annalise has started her pre-med program in Dallas. When they reconnect, dark memories threaten, sparks fly, and they give true meaning to the “hard and dirty holidays.”

  Bad Boy Valentine

  The Hard and Dirty Holidays

  Jess has always been shy. Keeping her head down and staying out of sight have served her well, especially when a sexy photographer moves in across the hall from her. Michael has a budding career, a dark past, and enough ink and piercings to make Jess’ mouth water. She is well equipped to watched him through her peephole and stalk him on social media. But what happens when the bad boy next door comes knocking?

  Bad Boy Valentine Wedding

  The Hard and Dirty Holidays

  Jess and Michael have been engaged for three years, waiting patiently for Jess to finish law school before taking the next step in their relationship. As the wedding date approaches, their dedication to each other only grows, but outside forces seek to tear them apart. The bad boy will have to fight to keep his bride and Jess will have to trust him with her whole heart to make their happy ending a reality.

  F*ck of the Irish

  The Hard and Dirty Holidays

  Eamon is my crush, the one guy I can’t stop thinking about. His Irish accent, toned body, and sparkling eyes captivated me the second I saw him. But since he slept with my roommate, who claims she still loves him, he’s been off limits. Despite my prohibition on dating him, he has other other ideas. Resisting him is the key to keeping my roommate happy, but giving in may bring me more pleasure than I ever imagined.

  Forced by the Kingpin

  Forced Series, Book 1

  I’ve been on the trail of the local mob kingpin for months. I know his haunts, habits, and vices. The only thing I didn’t know was how obsessed he was with me. Now, caught in his trap, I’m about to find out how far he and his local cop-on-the-take will go to keep me silent.

  Forced by the Professor

  Forced Series, Book 2

  I’ve been in Professor Stevens’ class for a semester. He’s brilliant, severe, and hot as hell. I haven’t been particularly attentive, prepared, or timely, but he hasn’t said anything to me about it. I figure he must not mind and intends to let me slide. At least I thought that was the case until he told me to stay after class today. Maybe he’ll let me off with a warning?

  Forced by the Hitmen

  Forced Series, Book 3

  I stayed out of my father’s business. His dirty money never mattered to me, so long as my trust fund was full of it. But now I’ve been kidnapped by his enemies and stuffed in a bag. The rough men who took me have promised to hurt me if I make a sound or try to run. I know, deep down, they are going to hurt me no matter what I do. Now I’m cuffed to their bed. Will I ever see the light of day again?

  Forced by the Stepbrother

  Forced Series, Book 4

  Dancing for strange men was the biggest turn on I’d ever known. Until I met him. He was able to control me, make me hot, make me need him, with nothing more than a look. But he was a fantasy. Just another client who worked me up and paid my bills. Until he found me, the real me. Now, he’s backed me into a corner. His threats and promises, darkly whispered in tones of sex and violence, have bound me surer than the cruelest ropes. At first I was unsure, but now I know – him being my stepbrother is the least of my worries.

  Forced by the Quarterback

  Forced Series, Book 5

  For three years, I’d lusted after Jericho, my brother’s best friend and quarterback of our college football team. He’s never paid me any attention, considering me nothing more than a little sister he never had. Now, I’m starting freshman year and I’m sharing a suite with my brother. Jericho is over all the time, but he’ll never see me as anything other than the shy girl he met three years ago. But that’s not who I am. Not really. To get over Jericho – and to finally get off – I’ve arranged a meeting with HardcoreDom. If I can’t have Jericho, I’ll give myself to a man who will master me, force me, and dominate me the way I desperately need.

  ***

  Zeus

  Taken by Olympus, Book 1

  One minute I’m looking after an injured gelding, the next I’m tied to a luxurious bed. I never believed in fairy tales, never gave a second thought to myths. Now that I’ve been kidnapped by a man with golden eyes and a body that makes my mouth water, I’m not sure what I believe anymore. . . But I know what I want.

  ***

  Cash Remington

  and the Missing Heiress

  Sexy Dreadfuls, Book 1

  I’m the best operator in the entire agency. The plum assignments—always mine. So when an American heiress goes missing, I’m the guy they call to get her back. Rescuing Collette Stanford is my mission. What I do to her after that is purely up to me, as long as she makes it back to the States in one piece. I’ll kill the bad guys, get the girl, and get a little taste of what the heiress has to offer. None of this is negotiable. I’m Cash Remington, and I never miss.

  ***

  Cash Remington

  and the Rum Run

  Sexy Dreadfuls, Book 2

  I plunder the sea, steal what I can, and never look back. It’s a pirate captain’s life for me. When my crew and I discover a destroyed ship floating on the endless waves, we scavenge it for every scrap of cloth and every morsel of food. Inside, I find a treasure—gold, gems, and a girl. I’ll ravage the girl, spend the gold, and use the gem to buy the ship of my dreams—the Gloomy Lotus. At least that’s the plan—until the Kraken, a whirlpool, and a six-headed beast attack my ship. Despite the danger, I still intend to have my way with the girl. Nothing can stop me. I’m Cash Remington, and I take what I want.

  Novels by Sloane Howell

  The Matriarch: An Erotic Superhero Romance

  The Matriarch Trilogy, Book 1

  Betrayal is easy, sex is a weapon, and information is power. Maggie Madison sits in the lofty towers of her city during the day, but at night she lurks the seedy underbelly, looking to snare the man wh
o stole her innocence. Her simple quest becomes complicated when she meets a man who is as light as she is dark, as straightforward as she is deceptive. When a villain rises and sets her world alight, she must weigh her need for revenge against the good of the city she vowed to protect.

  Shorts and Novellas by Sloane Howell

  The Panty Whisperer: Volume 1

  The Panty Whisperer Series, Book 1

  Have you ever been pushed to the edge, and then over it? Have you ever had your toes cramp and your head shoot to the sky, trying to log every touch, every feeling in your memory, to reenact every situation later in the shower, or underneath your cool bed sheets? Have you ever had someone own your mind, penetrating every single one of your sexual fantasies, unable to shake free of them?

  The thought of me will be a thirst you can't quench, an itch you just can't scratch, a drug that you cannot have. Every time you run your fingers down over your body, longing for that unattainable feeling I gave you, that warm sensation shooting into your toes, that complete surrender of all inhibition, aching for me to have you just one more time, I'll be there, inside your mind...

  My name is Joel Hannover and I am the panty whisperer. Some men are good at business, some gifted at mathematics--I'm good at making women come, hard. It's a gift I've possessed my entire life. If there was a girl nobody could bed, I was the first to get there. I always get there. I work as an accounting software consultant. That's a fancy way of saying I'm a salesman. Accounting departments are full of women, dressed conservatively, presumed to live boring, mundane lives. Nothing could be further from the truth. These women are unique, sexual creatures, yearning for someone to take them to their breaking point and beyond.