“Definitely,” Nataleigh said, smiling. “I’ll dive back into my salad and see if I find another carrot.”
He barely contained his sigh of relief. This was not the time, nor the place to get into a debate about either of their lifestyles. That topic would have one of them ready to explode before long.
Instead, he turned his attention to the remainder of his now-cold dinner, realizing somewhere along the way he had lost his appetite as he forced himself to chew and swallow bite after bite.
He didn’t know what had come over him. It was as though Nataleigh had slipped something into his drink that made his lips loose. For some reason, he’d just spilled his guts, told her things that were buried deep with him.
What really disturbed him was how much better he felt because of it. It had been refreshing to unburden himself. To speak of the ongoing frustration he experience when dealing with his parents, and the friends of the jet-set lifestyle that he wanted nothing to do with.
Nataleigh had listened to him, really heard what he said, passing no judgment. She cared enough to make the effort. It was nice, very nice indeed.
Still, it didn’t explain why he had done it. Nataleigh Brown seemed to be weaving a magical spell upon him.
Better watch yourself, Keelan.
He typically put his guard up when he was in the company of a single woman. But with Nataleigh? She was so honest and open, so far removed from the social class he was accustomed to. He found himself completely relaxed, just being himself.
Yeah, he definitely better watch himself when it came to Nataleigh. He was treading in unfamiliar territory where there was the danger lurking in the shadows of losing his heart before he knew what hit him.
And there was no way he could allow that to happen.
* * * *
They finished their dinner accompanied by comfortable silences and random chitchat that continued on through coffee and dessert. But all too soon, they were leaving the restaurant. During the drive back to her apartment, she contemplated ways to extend the date.
Her night as Cinderella was almost over. She would soon be Nataleigh Brown, who catered to pampered animals again. The thought of it was truly depressing.
Wait, that wasn’t right. It wasn’t how she felt about her job, her career. There was far more to her job than putting up with Deon’s antics and overseeing spoiled pooches. She was a certified veterinary technician, with many tasks and responsibilities benefitting her degree. She was content and happy, a very important part of the team at Sanders Veterinary Clinic.
Nataleigh glanced at Keelan as he focused on maneuvering through the heavy traffic. It was all his fault that she suddenly had dreary thoughts about her work, she mused, taking in the sight of Keelan’s ruggedly handsome profile that was clearly visible in the interior of the car.
He’d strongly voiced his belief in the fact that she was selling out, wasn’t giving back to the portion of society she’d come from. That was so close-minded of him, so selfish and unfair, not to mention—
Stop it.
She fought the desire to laugh aloud as she scolded herself. She was going to get herself worked up again and ruin a magical evening if she let herself travel down that road.
Keelan’s opinion didn’t matter, because more than likely she wouldn’t see him again. He was used to being with women like Brandi. No, she wouldn’t hear from Keelan after tonight, so she was going to enjoy the moment and enjoy the remaining time until they said goodbye. “Yes,” she murmured.
“Yes…what?”
Nataleigh looked over at him quickly, then redirected, her attention to the passing scenery. “Sorry. I didn’t realize I spoke aloud. I was just pondering something.”
“Really, now? Am I allowed to apply that yes to any question I now choose?”
She sighed. “Of course not.”
“Well, that’s no good,” he responded, chuckling.
“Sorry, Coach Robinson, but you can’t win them all.” She paused. “Although I do wish you luck in winning the remaining games of the season. You certainly seem to be off to a good start.”
“Yes we are,” he stated as he pulled into a empty parking space at her apartment complex.
He came around and assisted her from the car. They strolled slowly toward her apartment, Keelan placing an arm around her shoulder and drawing her close to his side along the way.
“I had a very good time tonight, Keelan,” she murmured. “Thank you.”
“No, thank you,” he replied. “It has been a very special evening.” They stopped in front of her door. “Your key?”
She produced the key, he unlocked the door, then pushed it open.
“I was just wondering, if you’d like to see my team in action. I wouldn’t ask you to drive to the stadium alone, but next Friday night we play at Field Stadium near this side of town. Would you be interested in coming?”
“I’d love to,” she whispered, wondering if the invitation was a figment of her imagination. She was positive she would wake up any moment now and find she had dreamed this entire night. If that were so, she planned to enjoy the dream to the fullest. “What time?”
“Kick-off is at 7:30. Unfortunately I can’t pick you up because I have to stay with the team.”
“That’s okay. I know where the stadium is. I’m looking forward to it.”
He cupped her face between his palms. “Good,” he whispered, lowering his head toward hers. “So am I.”
He brushed his lips over hers in a soft kiss that sent shivers racing down her spine. In the next instant, he captured her mouth in a nerve tingling kiss that seemed to steal the very breath from her. She let her arms drift upward to wrap around his neck as he lowered his hands to her back to draw her closer against his body.
The kiss was pure bliss. It was passion thrumming, then coiling, low and hot, deep within her. The kiss tasted of lingering chocolate and coffee. Her breasts were crushed with an enticing, sensual pain to the solid wall of Keelan’s chest as she returned the angry kiss in total abandon.
She was dancing with Keelan and now, finally, he was kissing her as they swayed to the beautiful music. She’d waited an eternity for this kiss and it was everything she imagined and more.
This kiss should never end. She definitely didn’t want it to. Neither did Keelan for he raised his head a fraction of a inch to draw in a quick breath, then slanted his mouth over hers again in the opposite direction, sweeping her under the spell of another passionate kiss.
Her mind ceased to function. The time she spent with him had been spectacular, surreal, so sincere and real. He constantly surprised and delighted her in a way that somewhat frightened her. He was a unique individual, special, rare, like no man she had met before. And she wanted him with an intensity that had her on the verge of combustion. Along with the insistent need was another emotion she couldn’t name. Even as his kiss consumed her, she felt protected. Finally, Keelan ended the kiss slowly.
“Nataleigh,” he whispered, his breath feathering across her lips. “I promised to walk you to your door and say goodnight. Remember?”
“Hmm?” she mumbled, peering at him through her lashes. Keelan gripped her shoulders and eased her aroused body away from his.
“I really need to keep my promise,” he whispered, then drew in a deep shuddering breath. It’s important that I do. Very important.”
“It is?” She blinked slowly, then snapped to attention. “Oh. Oh, yes. Yes, you’re right.” She frowned. “Why is it very important?”
One corner of his mouth curled upward. “Because it is important to me to always keep my promises.”
“That makes sense.”
“But it’s more than that.” His smile dimmed and he brushed his thumb gently over her lips, causing her tremble from the sensation. “You stated earlier that you had the concern I would try to hustle you into bed after taking you out tonight. I don’t want to do anything remotely close to making you believe that’s true. Understand?”
; “Yes.” Relief flooded her. Even though Keelan had told her he wasn’t trying to get her in bed, she hadn’t believed him. Now he left her with no choice. “Thank you, Keelan.”
He chuckled. “I think I deserve a medal of good self-restraint for this. You have done a number on me, Ms. Brown.” He paused. “I do want you, Nataleigh, but I’m sure you realize that.”
“I—”
“Shh,” he whispered, then placed a kiss onto her lips. “I’ll see you Friday night at the game, but I hope it is okay if I call you before then.”
She nodded. “Yes.”
“Goodnight, Nataleigh.”
She offered him one last smile before entering her apartment. After closing the door with a quick click, she rested her forehead against the door. Keelan packed a very potent sexual punch. The feel and taste of his lips, the sensation of having his rock solid body against hers, had caused instant flames of desire to surge throughout her.
Oh, yes, she wanted Keelan Robinson. She ached with the longing for him.
Lifting her head slowly, she stared at the door blankly. Why had she agreed to go to the upcoming football game? She’d just opened her mouth and out popped I’d love to. What time? before she even realized she was speaking.
She released a pent-up breath and made her way to her bedroom. Her mind raced as she began to prepare for bed. After she slipped underneath the blanket, she turned off the small lamp on the bedside table, then stared up at a ceiling she knew was there, but wasn’t visible in the darkness.
Several hours ago, she had truly believed that she wouldn’t see Keelan again after tonight. But now? She was going to see him Friday night. Was it a good idea? Or was she foolishly treading further and further into dangerous, unknown territory?
She touched her fingertips lightly to her lips, savoring, remembering, the exquisite kiss shared with Keelan. Never before, never, had she been consumed by such instant searing desire. She had wanted Keelan to make love to her throughout the night.
“What have I gotten myself into?” She rolled over onto her stomach, hit her pillow until it curled into the shape she desired and willed herself to give way to lull of slumber.
But peaceful sleep was a long time in coming.
* * * *
“Watch their hands, Ref,” Nataleigh yelled. “They’re holding so much you would think there is superglue on their jerseys!”
A female student sitting next to a standing Nataleigh tugged on the back of her sweatshirt.
“You’d better sit down, Bird Lady,” the girl said “or you’re going to get us tossed right out of this stadium.”
“Oh, sorry.” Nataleigh plopped down on the cushioned stadium seat. “But did you see that, Leena?” Nataleigh asked her new, young acquaintance. “Those referees have to be blinded by the bright lights to miss some of these penalties. It is making me mad enough to want to step on the field and have a word with them.”
The boy sitting next to Leena laughed. “Don’t do that either,” he said, “or you will really get us thrown out.”
“Okay, okay,” Nataleigh muttered, raising both hands. “I’m calm. I’ve regained my composure. I’ll behave like a mature adult. It was very nice of the two of you to allow me to sit with you, and I’ll try not to embarrass you.” She paused, smiling. “At least I hope not to.”
Leena laughed. “You’re okay, you know? For being an older person and all, you’re cool, you’re fun.”
“Thanks,” Nataleigh murmured, frowning slightly at being called an old person. “I think.”
“So,” Germaine said, “the Bird Lady is now Coach Robinson’s lady. That’s cool. Works for me.”
“Oh, um, Germaine,” Nataleigh started, feeling heat rush up her neck. “I’m not Coach Robinson’s lady, per se. He simply invited me to watch the team play. We’d gone out, to dinner, you see, and he thought that I might like to—never mind.”
“You’re his lady,” Leena responded, nodding decisively. “If I were you though, I wouldn’t settle for that little house Coach Robinson lived in by Carter. No way. When Germaine and I get married, we’re leaving this neighborhood so quickly you won’t see us disappearing. Doesn’t make any sense to me that Coach Robinson lives in that area.”
“It doesn’t?” Nataleigh asked, her eyes widening as she stared at Leena.
“Hell, no,” Germaine replied.
Nataleigh’s gaze jerked toward him.
“If I had the money a teach makes, I’d find me a good house in a nicer area to take Leena to. Nobody understands why Coach Robinson keeps on staying here in the area.”
“Have any of you ever said that to him?” Germaine looked at her as if she had lost her mind for asking such a question.
“No way,” he exclaimed. “Where we come from, you don’t stick your nose in other people’s business. You know what I mean?”
“Well, his lady can get involved in his business, Germaine,” Leena clarified.
“True,” Germaine responded with a smirk. “You stick your nose in my business big-time, girl.”
“You’ve got that right, my man,” Leena retorted, “and you’d do well not to forget that. Hey, we got a first down. Way to go, Tyrone. We need a touchdown.”
Nataleigh returned her attention to the game, then slid a glance at Keelan. From where she sat with Leena and Germaine, she could see Keelan in profile. He stood with his back to the stands, his gaze riveted on the field. A small red towel hung from the waistband of his pants.
She was taken aback over how gorgeous he looked. What stunned her even more was what Leena and Germaine had just told her. The students that Keelan was so dedicated to couldn’t understand why he lived where he did if he didn’t have to. Keelan felt it was the only way to really relate to these kids, make them believe and trust in him.
But she knew that Keelan had sentenced himself to a lifestyle of having far less than he should for no concrete purpose. The kids at Carter certainly wouldn’t think any less of him for having a nice home in the suburbs.
In fact, they might even respect him more than they did, if he showed them that working hard to become a teacher was a sure ticket out of the dinky neighborhood. She struggled not to let her mind race frantically. What should she do? Tell Keelan what she’d discovered while sitting in the noisy stands? Frankly, she didn’t want to stick her nose in his business because in her opinion, she was definitely not his lady. There were too many pros and cons to sift and sort through.
A loud buzzer sounded and Nataleigh startled, the abrupt sound drawing her from her internal battle.
“Halftime,” Germaine said. “We’re ahead by a touchdown. That’s not enough of a lead against those guys.”
“Look at the bright side,” Nataleigh responded. “It’s better than being behind by a touchdown.” As she spoke, her gaze returned to the field.
Keelan turned to say something to one of the other coaches as the players began to head toward the locker room. A second later, his gaze went to the bleachers.
She instantly knew when he was searching for her. Before she could change her mind, she raised her hand in a small wave. Keelan spotted her and sent a big smile her way, then turned to run off the field.
“Oh boy,” Leena whispered, before laughing. “Did you see that, Germaine? Mercy. And here you are, Bird Lady, trying to convince us you’re not Coach Robinsons’ lady. Come Monday morning, everybody at Carter is going to know that the coach has a special woman in his life. Isn’t that something?”
“You are right, Leena,” Germaine responded as he stood up. “I’m going to the restroom and then to the concession stand. Either of you want anything?”
“Not for me, Germaine. You just make sure you don’t get into anything out there. Keep your mouth shut, you hear me?”
“Yeah, yeah. I hear you loud and clear.”
Nataleigh hid her smile as Germaine shuffled away.
“Ooh, that boy gives me a headache sometimes.”
“You and Germaine plan on getting marrie
d?”
Leena nodded. “We’re graduating from Carter next spring, getting married and moving on.”
“What are you going to do after that? I mean, are you thinking about college?”
“No, we don’t have money for that. Germaine can fix anything with a motor, so I figure he can get a good paying job as a mechanic. I plan on keeping my job at the grocery store and doing hair on the side until we have a baby. But then, well, you came to the career day thing at school and… Oh forget it.”
“No, Leena, go on. But before you do, I’d like to think we’re becoming friends. Why don’t you call me Nataleigh instead of Coach Robinson’s Lady or Bird Lady? So tell me, what were you going to say?”
“Well, you’ve got a career even though you didn’t have much money starting out. Taking care of crazy birds would sure beat dealing with rude customers all day.”
Nataleigh frowned. “Do you really think all that I do is take care of birds?”
Leena shrugged. “That and clean up after other rich people’s pets. But hey, you do what you have to when you’re short on money.” She paused. “Well as long as it’s legal. Maybe I’ll just continue to cashier. I can’t stand the idea of catering to rich folks all day. I’ll work in a store where my kind of people shop.”
“You…you think I sold out, don’t you?” Nataleigh asked in a low voice. “Keelan—Coach Robinson said that you, the students at Carter, would feel that way about me”
“I’m not sticking my nose in your business, Nataleigh. You gotta do what you gotta do. But me and Germaine? He’ll be a big time mechanic and I’ll be a cashier until I can work my way up. And we’re going to have the cutest baby that has ever been born. We’re not raising our kid in the hood either. We’re going to be fine, just fine. We might even have our own furniture someday. Nice stuff, really classy.”
“I’m sure you will. Leena, I want you to know that I took the job at Sanders Veterinary Clinic because it pays wells and I have a brother and sister depending on me for financial help to pay for college.”
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