The Player and the Tattoo Artist (New Hampshire Bears Book 8)

by Mary Smith

  I squeeze his hand and a shiver runs through me. Our connection is strong but breaks when Kace comes back into the room.

  “Here.” He hands a puck to Alden.

  “What’s this, Buddy?” He takes it and inspects it.

  “It’s the puck from my first goal. I want you to have it.”

  My mouth drops, just as Alden’s does.

  “Buddy...Kace...this is a great treasure but you should keep it.” Alden tries to give it back.

  “But you were there for me. You helped me.” He grows sad.

  I want to glare at Alden, but his eyes are filling up with wetness.

  “Kace.” Alden holds the puck tightly. “This is the greatest gift and I’m honored you gave it to me. Thank you.”

  Kace throws his arms around his neck and I see my son’s beaming face.

  “I have something for you.” Alden sniffles.

  He’s crying.

  Alden grabs his coat and reaches into the pocket. He pulls out a puck. There’s tape around it with writing I can’t make out.

  “This is for you.” He hands the puck to Kace. “You are now the proud owner of the puck that I tied the record with.”

  Kace holds it delicately. “Wow! This is the best gift ever.” He turns to me. “Look, Mom.” He holds it close to my face.

  “That’s great.” My eyes try to focus on the words. It has the date, Alden’s last name, and the total points he has. “It’s time for bed.”

  Kace groans. “Why?”

  “Because it’s late. End of story,” I say.

  He rolls his eyes.

  “Buddy, you need to rest because tomorrow is a big day,” Alden tells him.

  “It is?”

  “You and your mom are coming to the game.” He announces.

  “I’m going to bed right now.” He hugs Alden and then me before racing back down the hall, slamming the bedroom door.

  Alden and I both laugh.

  “I didn’t know you already planned my Saturday.” I tease him, but I’m excited.

  “I figured it would be easier if I dominated this relationship.” His sexy smirk appears.

  I laugh. “Do you want something to drink?” I have to get away from his stunning face and go to the kitchen.

  He follows me. “I should find something to eat.” He hints.

  “All I have to offer is hot dogs and mac and cheese.” Why did I offer anything to him?

  “That’s my favorite meal.” He opens my fridge and grabs a bottle of water.

  “Really?”

  “Yes. Do you need help?”

  “Um...no…” I can’t believe he’s asking me if I need help with a simple meal as this.

  He stands close to me, leaning against the counter. He goes on about the game and how grateful he is for me giving Amara a job.

  “She’s amazing. It wasn’t a big deal.” I shrug plating the food. “She really loves you.”

  Alden takes the plates from my hands and places them on the kitchen table. “I adore my sister.”

  I sit down next to him. “Are you sure the date of the shoot is good for you?”

  “Yep, I have it in the old digital calendar.” He moans as he eats the hot dog. “This is good. It’s been forever since I’ve had a home cooked meal.”

  I stare at him in disbelief. “This isn’t a home cooked meal.” I correct him.

  “You know what I mean.”

  We eat quietly before I tell him, “I want to thank you for helping Kace today. It meant the world to him.”

  He nods and finishes his food. “He’s a good kid.”

  I realize when a conversation gets serious, Alden’s sentences are short and blunt.

  “Are you done?”

  And he changes the subject. “Yes, I am.”

  Alden picks up the plates and cleans them up. “I need to get home. The tickets will be waiting for you. Oh, and I got one for your aunt. You’ll be in the family box this time with Mom and Amara.”

  “You’re very kind. Thank you.” I dry the plates and put them away.

  “Not a problem.” He kisses my cheek and goes to grab his coat.

  I watch as he puts Kace’s puck in his pocket. He’s a sweet guy. More than I thought he was. I know he likes Kace, and I can’t help the warmth running through me.

  “Hey, Alden.” I step up to him. He’s a good ten inches taller than me. It makes him even hotter. “I want to thank you for today.”

  “Um...I believe you already did.” He seems perplexed.

  “Well, this is a thank you you’ll understand better.” My chest is touching his, and I raise up on my tiptoes and kiss his lips. “Don’t think more into it than a simple thank you.” Even though I want to rip his clothes off and ride him on the couch.

  “I promise.” He opens the door. “By the way, you’re fucking hot in flannel.” He leaves on those words.

  I gasp and look down. Shit!

  Chapter Seven

  Alden

  I TAKE SEVERAL deep breaths as I sit on the bench with my teammates. The seconds are ticking down much faster than they should be. We’re down by one, and I can’t seem to do a fucking thing with the puck. The guys keep passing it to me, but it’s like my stick is limp and coated with olive oil.

  “Brockman, let’s do this.” Vance punches my arm. “We got this.”

  I nod. I have to get my mind in the game. It’s been there the whole time, but now it’s fucking time I step up bigger than I’ve ever done.

  Be the best I can be.

  Be the best I can be.

  Be the best I can be.

  I know all eyes are on me right now, and I can feel it deep under my skin. This usually makes me shine better, but today it’s setting me on edge. Not to mention, my feelings for Baylor and Kace are causing me more pain than I ever thought they would.

  My body jumps back onto the ice and I go into autopilot. Vance yells for me to get to the net and I skate my ass off to get into position. My eyes remain on the puck.

  I want the fucking puck.

  I want this fucking point.

  I want to break this record.

  Vance passes the puck to Bas who settles it down. I slap my stick on the ice for the puck. Bas hears me. My eyes are crazy glued on the black orb coming toward me. The puck barely touches my stick as I spin and shoot it under the arm of the goalie.

  The light goes off.

  I scored?

  I scored.

  I scored!

  My back hits the glass to stop me, but I’m frozen. I did it. Vance and Bas jump at me and finally it registers in mind what just happened. I broke the point streak record. Everyone is congratulating me, and I’m unable to say anything. I skate to the bench bumping fists with the guys. Even though it’s not customary I skate to Nathan and knock heads with him.

  “You made it, Bro.” He shouts over the growling crowd.

  I nod to him and skate back to the bench.

  The rest of the game is a blur to me. The interviews I did must have sounded robotic. I don’t remember the questions or anything. I take a quick photo opt for the Bears social media sites, shower, change, and race out to my family. Mom, Amara, Baylor, and Kace are all waiting for me as I step out of the door. Kace leaps into my arms first.

  “I’m so proud of you, Alden.”

  “Thanks, Buddy.” I hold him tight. I put him down only to catch Amara next.

  “You were amazing.” Her voice chokes up. “I love you, Big Brother.”

  “I love you, Lil Sis.” I sit her down and hug Mom next. She’s crying and only holds me without saying anything. She’s very emotional. “It’s okay, Mom.” I rub her back.

  “You make me proud,” she whispers and kisses my cheek.

  “Love you, Mom.” I step back and look to Baylor. She isn’t making a move toward me. I try not to think of our sweet kiss last night, even though I have. A lot. “Everyone else hugged me.” I hold out my arms.

  She rolls her eyes but comes over and gives me a quic
k hug. “Great job, Alden.” She steps back and I’m desperate to have her again. I hold myself back.

  “I say we grab food and celebrate before I have to leave,” I tell my family.

  “We’ll head home,” Baylor says.

  “Nope.” I grab her wrist. “You’re going to come.”

  “I wouldn’t argue with him.” Amara’s holding Kace’s hand and they begin to head toward the door with Mom following.

  I tug on Baylor’s wrist and pull her around the corner. She gives a small yelp but I quickly cover her mouth with mine. I dig my hands into her long, silky black hair, holding her tight to me. Baylor moans as she opens her mouth to me. I slip my tongue in. It takes every bit of my strength to pull away.

  “Don’t read more into that.” I use her words against her. “It’s a thank you.”

  She smiles as I lead her to the car. “Amara picked us up.”

  I know she’s making small talk to keep her mind off the kiss. “Then you’ll be riding me.” I wink.

  “You mean with you.”

  “Maybe. Maybe not.” I shrug pushing the door open.

  “I’m riding with Alden,” Kace says the moment we’re in earshot.

  Amara smiles and points to her mouth. I know it’s our sign I have lipstick on my mouth. I quickly wipe my mouth and unlock the doors.

  “Meet us at the steakhouse.” I open the door for Baylor as I give instructions to Amara.

  “Will do,” Amara shouts over her shoulder heading to her car.

  Kace talks the entire ride over and I enjoy it. I tried my best not to get emotional when he gave me his puck. However, I did. No one has given me a gift of such value. When I went home I placed it on my nightstand next to my pictures. It was then the truth hit me.

  I care for Baylor and Kace more than I thought.

  I don’t care for those of the opposite sex. Well, I care long enough to get my rocks off. I knew Baylor was different. I just didn’t know how much.

  “Are you okay?” Baylor asks as we walk into the restaurant.

  “I’m great.” I take her hand again. She tries to pull away from me, but I won’t let her. I pull her chair out first before Moms or Amaras. However, Kace has taken care of Amara.

  “We’re getting steaks again, right?” Kace grins at me.

  “Steaks all around.” I announce and squeeze Baylor’s knee. I know she’s going to protest and I’m stopping her before she begins thinking about it too much.

  “Alden, you’ll need to keep your strength up,” Amara says. “Playoffs are coming up.”

  I nod. Now that I’m over the hurdle of beating the point streak record, the focus on the playoffs is real. It’s my favorite time of the year. Everyone is on top of their game and I feel this year is our year.

  “Are you sure you’re okay?” Baylor pats my hand still resting on her knee.

  I’m not even trying to cop a feel.

  “I’m good. Honest.” I remove my hand from hers.

  The waitress comes over and takes our orders. I can feel the young blonde staring at me, trying to catch my eye, but my gaze is on Baylor.

  She’s the one I want.

  “Alden, look at this new game I got.” Kace comes over to my chair.

  “Show me how it works, Buddy.” I pull him closer.

  Kace goes through the details of the game. It’s actually pretty cool. Mom, Amara, and Baylor are talking as I keep my attention on Kace. I’m enjoying myself and soon our food arrives. Amara moves over for Kace to sit by me.

  The dinner is fantastic. Amara updates us on her clinicals. She’s already studying for her state exam. I know she’ll pass it with flying colors. Nothing can stop her once she puts her mind to something. She’s as stubborn as I am.

  “I’m hoping Amara begins to date soon. She’s too sweet to be alone,” Mom says.

  “Amara doesn’t need anyone.” I jump in. “She’s working and studying. That’s where her focus should be.” Even though she may need someone, she’s too focused.

  Amara rolls her eyes. “I’m a big girl, Alden. I don’t need your opinion about my love life.”

  “You don’t have a love life.” I push my empty plate away.

  I know how men are. I am one. We care about wet pussies, coming hard, working out, and sports. Food is on the list, but it’s not as important as sex. Amara is too innocent to be out clubbing and having some jackass break her heart. Then I’ll have to kill him. It’s best she remains single.

  “I’m ready to go home.” Amara states void of all emotion. She’s pissed off at me.

  I pay the bill and walk out with everyone. As we’re about to separate I gently pull Amara closer to me. “What’s wrong?”

  “Really?” She spins around and glares at me. “Are you so dense you don’t know what’s wrong?”

  “Amara—”

  “Do yourself a favor and shut up.” She opens her car door and slams it shut.

  I sigh. “Women.”

  Baylor and Kace are in my car waiting for me. The drive to her house is uneventful until we pull into her driveway.

  “Dad’s here.” Kace mumbles with a saddened tone.

  I put the car in park and glance over at Baylor. She’s confused and looks a little pissed. “Everything all right?”

  “Yes. Thanks for tonight. See you. Come on, Kace.” Her sentences are short and blunt. She hops out and reaches for Kace’s hand.

  I get out of the car and follow them up to the porch. The guy is built but short. I’m at least eight inches taller and much bigger. I could take this guy.

  “We’re fine.” Baylor tries to stop me.

  “I’m going with you. Period.”

  “Who’s the pimp?” The guy does a once over and glares.

  “He’s my friend.” Kace jumps to my defense.

  “I’m Alden Brockman.” I keep my eyes firmly locked on his. This guy has asshole written all over his face.

  “Rocco, what are you doing here?” Baylor stands between us.

  “I texted you a million times. Where the fuck have you been?”

  Before Baylor could say anything, I smile. “They were with me.”

  “Alden had a big game tonight.” Kace beams.

  “You’re the reason my son is playing some pussy sport.” He points his finger near my face.

  “Excuse me?” I jump toward him fueled by his remark.

  “Enough.” Baylor pushes Rocco back from me. “Rocco, leave.” She orders him. “Leave now.”

  “You think it’s wise to throw me out, Bays?” His voice is menacing.

  I pull Kace behind me then Baylor. “You need to leave.” I stare him down before he finally steps back and off the porch.

  “I’ll see you soon, Kace-Kace.”

  His grin is full of malice and I feel Kace holding onto my suit jacket. We watch as he jumps into his car and drives off.

  “Pack a bag you’re staying with me tonight.” I turn to Baylor and order her. I can see her expression is on the verge to yell at me and tell me no. “Don’t argue. Kace, don’t forget your school books.”

  “Okay.” He grabs the keys from his mom’s hands and goes into the house.

  She and I have a stare down, but I don’t blink.

  “You’re leaving in the morning.”

  “And Kace has school and you have to go to work.” I move around her and walk over the threshold.

  “Alden.” Baylor groans following me.

  I cup her face in my hands. I lightly brush my lips against hers. “Go pack a fucking bag and let’s go to my place.”

  She hesitates then but nods, steps back, and heads toward the hallway. The smile grows thinking of them both at my place.

  What the hell? Why am I excited by this?

  AMARA HELPS KACE and Baylor settle into their bedrooms as I quickly hide in mine. I’m not sure what is happening to me and I call the one person who might be able to help.

  “Hey, Pops, what’s happening?” I try to keep my joking tone even as the panic c
reeps up.

  “Alden? You drunk?” Cabel’s voice is groggy. He must have been asleep.

  “No, but I need advice.” There’s no reason to beat around the bush here.

  “Oh God, where are you?” He sounds awake now. “Do I need to call Oliver? Coach? The police? A lawyer?”

  “Calm down, Pops!” I raise my voice with the hope he relaxes. “I’m at home.”

  “Alone?”

  “Well, no. Baylor and Kace are here.”

  There’s dead silence on the other end of the phone. I check the screen to see if we’re still connected.

  “Pops?”

  “You never take women to your home.”

  He’s right. I never do. I began to explain everything to him about what happened tonight. I tell him how protective I feel for Baylor and Kace and all my other unexplainable strange feelings.

  “What’s wrong with me?” I ask.

  Cabel chuckles. “Sounds like you’re falling in love.”

  I scoff. “I need a serious answer here.”

  “I’m being serious. Listen, Alden, I want you to tell me how you’re going to feel when these dates are over. Without thinking about it say the first thing that pops in your head.”

  The pain of dread and sadness hits me. “Shit.” I sigh.

  “Yep, you’re in love. Now you need to go talk to Baylor and tell her how you feel.”

  “I’m not sure she feels the same way. She’s already told me no to sex.”

  “Sex isn’t everything. She’s kissed you and you kissed her. I promise there’s something there.”

  I think about Baylor. Her kindness, her love for Kace, her determination for INK Palace. All of it makes her even sexier to me. Do I want to have sex with her? Fuck yeah. But it’s not the same now.

  “Talk to her, Alden. If you don’t you’ll regret it.”

  Pops’ words hit true to my heart and head. “Thanks.” I end the call and climb into bed.

  When and where will I have this talk? Now? No, it can’t be now. She’s been through a lot tonight. I’m gone for the next four days as we finish our season on the road with the last two games. When I come back I’ll have one free day to do the INK America shoot and then it’ll be playoff time.

  Knock. Knock.

  “Come in,” I say pulling the covers up over my hips as I sit up against the headboard.