Kaufman: The Season (Austin Arrows Book 2)

by Nicole Edwards

  “It’s been a good evening,” Phoenix says, stopping in front of me and Spencer while we’re mingling with a few of the guests who wanted to talk to Spencer about upcoming charity events.

  “It has,” Spencer says, his arm once again tightening around me.

  “Thank you for getting up there, for sharing Jason’s story. It’s making a difference.”

  I peer over at Spencer, trying to read his expression. I don’t think he believes Phoenix, either.

  “Again, thank you. And since I’m sure you’re itching to race out of here, I think it’s safe for you to call it a night. Thanks for coming. Thanks for enduring.”

  I wonder if Phoenix can tell what it costs Spencer to do these types of things.

  “Thank you.” Spencer’s tone is full of relief.

  The second Phoenix turns away, Spencer takes my hand and tugs me toward the entrance. I down what’s left of my champagne and set the glass on a table as we rush by it.

  “You probably shouldn’t look so eager to run away,” I tease when we’re out in the hotel lobby, heading for the front.

  “I’m not running away,” he mumbles, not breaking his stride.

  “It sure feels that way to me.”

  After he retrieves my coat, it only takes a minute or two for the limo to be brought around. The jury is out on whether that is good or bad.

  Five minutes later, I determine that it’s bad.

  I should not be alone with Spencer.

  Absolutely.

  Should.

  Not.

  Be.

  Alone.

  Yet, here I am, sitting across from him in the limo. His eyes are fixed on me and I feel the heat from his gaze.

  Knowing I have to say something, I go for a safe topic.

  “I think it was a good turnout tonight. At the benefit, I mean. You were great. Really great. I know you were nervous, but I don’t think anyone noticed. Other than me, of course.”

  Spencer’s eyes narrow on me. “I’m taking you back to my place.”

  That news has me sitting up straight. “No.”

  I can tell that isn’t what he was hoping I would say.

  “I need to go home, Spencer.” I make sure to look him in the eye when I add, “Alone.”

  I can tell he’s trying to come up with a plan to change my mind, but he won’t. I won’t let him. I’m already in too deep with this man. I can’t do this to myself anymore.

  Feeling the need to explain, to settle this thing between us, I go for truth. “Look. I don’t regret what happened between us, but we can’t keep doing this. I don’t want to keep doing this. I’m sorry if I gave you that impression.”

  He doesn’t say anything, of course.

  “I think we chalk this up to temporary insanity. I’d like to go back to being friends.”

  “Friends.”

  I nod. “Yes. You know, without the benefits. That type of friendship really does exist.”

  He smiles, but I can tell it’s forced.

  “I’d also appreciate if no one ever found out about it.” I really don’t want to have to explain myself to Ellie. She’ll want to psychoanalyze this to death, and I really do think it’s best to pretend it never happened. It might be the only way I’ll get over him.

  Spencer’s head jerks in what I assume is a nod of agreement.

  “And if you ever feel the need to talk about Amber…” I swallow hard as I belt out the mother of all lies. “I’ll be glad to listen. I’m sure it’s hard dealing with her being back. I saw the way she watched you tonight. I think you should talk to her. Give her a chance to explain what happened. Who knows, maybe her being back is a sign from the universe.”

  Shit. I didn’t mean to add that last part.

  “The universe?” He sounds incredibly skeptical.

  “Sure. Why not?”

  The limo comes to a stop and I’m happy to see that we’re back at Ellie’s. I left my car here.

  Not wanting to make this any more awkward than it already is, I offer another smile and move closer to the door. When the driver opens it, I nod at Spencer. “You really were great tonight.”

  “Yeah.”

  I’m thankful it’s dark outside, because the second I’m out of the car, I feel my face fall.

  Perhaps I should consider a career change. If Spencer bought anything I just told him, I think I deserve an Academy Award.

  Noelle’s Journal

  Dear Universe,

  I think it’s time to get serious again. I’m positive when I say that I’m ready to get serious. Spencer has been fun, but it’s time to get down to business. I’m ready for my happily ever after. Yes, that’s what I want. Happily ever after. Two and a half kids and a white picket fence are optional. Let’s do this, okay? Thanks.

  21

  Spencer

  Monday, October 31st

  I’M DONE PLAYING GAMES.

  I’m done pretending that I’m happy when I’m miserable.

  And I’m done putting off the inevitable.

  Going to the Penalty Box tonight is a calculated risk. Being that it’s Halloween, I know it’s going to be packed, which greatly reduces my chances of being able to talk to Noelle. Then again, I have a plan for that, too. Ever since I left her on Saturday night, I’ve given a lot of thought to what she said. I’ve decided to start being honest with her. Maybe it’ll work, maybe it won’t, but doing things the way I’ve been doing them certainly isn’t helping my cause, so it’s time to change the play.

  After getting a beer from the bar, I head for the tables where my teammates are seated. I’m glad to see a lot of them are here tonight. Halloween isn’t a holiday that I care much for, but ever since Ellie and Noelle decided to start having this annual party, I don’t mind hanging out.

  “What’s up, Optimus?” Benne bellows when I take a seat beside him.

  There’s a little redhead perched on his lap, a wide grin on her face.

  “Candy, I’d like you to meet Spencer Kaufman. Captain.”

  Candy? If her real name is Candy, then I’m the pope.

  “I know who you are,” she coos, her bright red lips widening. “So are you out trick-or-treating? Would you be interested in some … Candy? There’s enough to go around.”

  Not going to lie. That’s creepy. I take a swallow of my beer as I shake my head. “No, can’t say that I would be.”

  Not wanting to deal with her, I glance around the bar, trying to find the only woman who could possibly catch my interest tonight.

  The first person I notice is Julie, Noelle’s sister. She’s standing near the hostess stand, glaring at… I peer over to my left.

  Oh, shit.

  I hope like hell she’s not trying to burn a hole through Benne. The man doesn’t seem to notice her, which is probably a bad thing.

  Julie must feel me watching her, because she meets my gaze, then turns away quickly.

  I look at my teammate for a minute. I consider knocking him upside the head. If he messed with Julie … I seriously might have to beat the shit out of him. The girl’s far too naïve to be dealing with Patrick Benne. The man’s interested in getting as much pussy as possible, and I don’t think he cares how he goes about that, either.

  Out of the corner of my eye, I notice a figure all in black, and suddenly Julie and her problems are the last thing on my mind.

  “Holy fuck,” I whisper against the lip of my beer bottle.

  I find Noelle standing at a table not too far away. The catsuit she has on is molded to every one of her wicked curves. She’s sporting a headband with what look to be felt ears, the tip of her nose is painted black, and there are whiskers drawn on her cheeks. As I let my gaze travel down her body, I notice the tail that’s attached to the bodysuit. Heaven help me. She looks edible, and based on the way the guys at t
he table are eyeballing her, they think so, too.

  Is it bad that I want to beat them all down?

  Knowing I can’t, I grab my phone out of my pocket and pull up her number. I’m not sure she’s even got her phone on her because … well, I seriously doubt she has a place to hide it in that costume.

  I send her a text message anyway.

  Spencer: I was thinking about what you said the other day. I’ve thought it over and I don’t agree to your terms. We’re going to have to renegotiate.

  I slip it back in my pocket and drink my beer, keeping my eye on her as she moves gracefully around the room, serving customers and smiling. Not only have I decided to pursue Noelle relentlessly, I’ve also come to the conclusion that I am a serious jackass because I’ve never noticed that she is the absolute most beautiful woman I have ever laid eyes on.

  I’ve known her for what? Twenty-five years?

  Holy shit, that’s a long time. Why the hell did it take me so long to figure it out?

  She disappears over near the bar. A few seconds later, my phone buzzes in my pocket. I try to play it cool when I pull it out.

  Noelle: You might be the captain of the team, but you don’t get to call the plays where I’m concerned.

  Yeah. I like her spunky side, too.

  Spencer: You do know why they call me Optimus, right?

  Noelle: Because you’re a giant pain in the ass?

  Spencer: Funny girl. Just for that, I’m definitely going to bend you over my knee later.

  Noelle: Again, you don’t get to call the plays.

  Spencer: Wanna bet?

  Noelle: Gotta get back to work now. Thanks for the entertainment.

  I watch as Noelle returns with a tray of drinks. I can tell she’s doing her best not to look my way. I’m nothing if not persistent. She might think she can brush me off, but it’s not happening. I get that she deserves a hell of a lot better than I’ve shown her so far, and I intend to give her that.

  But before that can happen, she has to give me a chance.

  Noelle

  I CAN’T STOP SMILING. I hate that I am, but it doesn’t change anything. The fact that Spencer made the first move with his text has turned my night from good to great. Funny how I know I should be cautious when it comes to him, but I can’t seem to be. I’m not reckless. Or I don’t think I am anyway. I’m a pretty conservative girl, I think. I’ve got a good head on my shoulders most of the time.

  It seems Spencer Kaufman knows how to push my buttons, and until I figure out a way to change my code, I think I’m doomed.

  I do my best not to look his way, especially because Ellie seems genuinely interested in me tonight. I wonder if she suspects something. Maybe I wasn’t discreet enough the other night at the benefit dinner. She hasn’t said anything, but I know she’s preoccupied with Kingston right now. Like, seriously preoccupied. Those two have to be getting it on by now, and if they’re not, someone’s head is about to blow off. The tension between them is ridiculous.

  For whatever reason, my gaze swings over to Spencer. I fight the blush that creeps up my neck when I see he’s watching me. I move around the room, checking on guests before making my way by him.

  “Put your tongue back in your mouth,” I whisper, bumping his shoulder when I pass him.

  He grabs my hand and pulls me backwards. I stumble but manage to right myself. Only problem is, I’m now leaning over him, his mouth hovering at my ear. “I’ve got a much better place to put my tongue. Just say the word.”

  The word.

  The word.

  The word.

  How many times should I say it?

  Ugghh.

  Not helping.

  With a grin, I manage to pull away and put as many tables between the two of us as I can.

  It’s not easy ignoring the hockey hottie for the next two hours, but I somehow manage. About the time the Arrows players decide to start doing shots, I let Ellie know I’m heading out. It’s been a long day and I can’t take anymore.

  “See you tomorrow?” she asks as I grab my coat and pull it on.

  “If you’re lucky.”

  In an effort to save myself, I don’t say anything to Spencer as I’m heading out, but either he has a tracking device implanted in me or he’s simply perceptive. Before I get to my car, I hear him call my name.

  Turning slowly, I take a deep breath. I can’t help but feel somewhat elated that he followed me.

  “Running away?” His tone is darkly seductive.

  “Of course not,” I lie.

  “You suck at lying,” he whispers softly, close enough that I can feel the warmth of his breath on my face.

  I scan the parking lot, not wanting anyone to see us. The last thing I need is for someone to say that the hockey hottie has a new fling. By tomorrow, there’ll be pictures on the news and reports of our impending breakup. That or we’re having a secret baby. It could go either way.

  “I’d ask you to dinner,” he says, his eyes dropping to my chest, “but I’m not about to let anyone else ogle you in that outfit tonight. Are you hungry?”

  Heat blooms inside me. Yeah. I’m hungry, all right. But not for food.

  Instead of telling him that, I nod. Why not? I want to see what he’ll say.

  “We can order in? Or I’ll pick something up.”

  Order in? “That’s a pretty big assumption there, big C. Are you inviting yourself over?”

  Spencer leans in more and I instinctively lean back. I’m trapped between my car and his body, so I can’t go far.

  “Come to my house,” he urges, seemingly oblivious to the fact that I’m trying to put distance between us.

  “I can’t.” I refuse to give up that much of myself. For whatever absurd reason, I’ve deemed it okay for him to come to my place tonight, but I refuse to go to his. I’m happy to say I’ve never done the walk of shame, and I certainly don’t intend to start now. Or ever.

  “Don’t make me beg.”

  I shake my head at the puppy dog eyes he gives me. “Fine. You can come to my place.”

  He smiles like a cat that caught the canary.

  Arrogant butthole.

  “I’ll follow you.”

  And there you have it.

  Maybe someone should give me a nickname. You know, maybe something that rhymes with smidiot.

  22

  Spencer

  DON’T SCREW THIS UP. DON’T SCREW THIS UP.

  I’m probably going to screw this up, but that doesn’t stop me from following Noelle back to her apartment.

  I park in the empty spot next to her car and get out. I can tell she’s nervous but trying not to show it. I don’t remember the other times being like this. Then again, those were fueled with sexual energy. Tonight is different.

  Oh, sure, there’s still some chemical chaos surrounding us, but I’m trying to be a gentleman. It’s not easy. At all.

  “You still eat only vegetables on your pizza?” I ask when she opens the front door and we go inside.

  “Oh, God. Pizza sounds so good right now.”

  The way she says that makes me think about sex.

  Everything she does and says makes me think about sex. Especially while she’s wearing that black bodysuit. I’d bet good money that she doesn’t have underwear on beneath it. No way could she hide those lines, and trust me, I would’ve noticed.

  “I’m gonna go change,” she says. “There’s a bowl of candy by the door in case anyone rings the doorbell.”

  “Okay.” I’m too busy staring at her ass to really understand what she says.

  As soon as she disappears down the hall, I pull out my phone and look up the nearest pizza place. A few minutes later, we’ve got food on the way.

  The second I decide to sit down, the doorbell rings. Really? Who would be…?

&nb
sp; Only then do I register what Noelle said earlier. I’m instantly back up, grabbing the bowl of candy as I open the door. I feel rather domestic and I kind of dig the feeling.

  Three little kids—two girls and a boy—are standing on the porch.

  “Trick or treat,” the girls say in unison.

  I pass over a few pieces of candy to them. When they step out of the way, the boy is left standing there, staring at me. Is there a secret to passing out candy? Do I have to do something special? He’s not moving closer, and lobbing candy at this kid seems wrong.

  “Are you Spencer Kaufman?”

  Ahh. That makes sense. I smile and nod.

  “Optimus?”

  “That’s me. You a hockey fan?”

  He nods, his head bobbing up and down frantically.

  “Cool. How old are you?”

  “Eight.”

  “You play?”

  “A little.”

  Noelle appears at my side, grinning from ear to ear. I notice she has scrubbed her face clean and she’s wearing an oversized Arrows sweatshirt and a pair of pink boxers.

  “Who’s your favorite player?” she asks, obviously up to speed on the conversation.

  “Him.”

  “Hold this for a sec.” I pass off the bucket to Noelle and slip out around the kid. It only takes a second to rummage in the backseat of my truck to find what I’m looking for. I grab a silver Sharpie off the floor before returning to Noelle’s door. The kid is still standing there, still staring at me as though he doesn’t believe I’m real.

  I sign the puck and pass it over to him.

  “Th-thank … uh… Thank you.”

  “You’re welcome.”

  “Mom! Mom! Look what I got! That’s Optimus! This is so freaking cool! So much better than candy!”

  When I step back into the apartment, Noelle is looking at me like I’m a superhero.

  “You didn’t look nervous at all just then.”

  “That’s part of the game,” I tell her. “Between me and you, the kids are the best. To see their excitement is … rewarding.”