I believe him. I have no reason not to anymore. He hasn’t been anything but honest and open with me since the day I walked into his house. Admitting it to myself and to Puck is the hard part, but I have to if I want to move forward.
“Okay,” I say slowly, “let’s do it.”
Puck smirks at me, “‘Let’s do it’,” he repeats, “that’s not the answer I was expecting,” he chuckles, “but I’ll take it.”
We clink glasses again and each take another drink.
“What about the parents?” I ask, “technically we’re family.”
“My mom will be ecstatic - trust me,” Puck says, “she’s been listening to me ask about you for a decade already, listening to my plots and schemes to get back into your life. She may just be happy to have me shut up for once and enjoy myself.”
“Plots and schemes, huh?” I tease him.
“Oh, you have no idea,” he admits, “although she was the one who came up with the genius plan to have you as my personal chef.”
“She really wanted me to work for you. She basically begged me to at least go and talk to you.”
“Now you know why.”
“My father adores her - and you. I’m sure if Joanne is happy, he will be too.” I laugh, “we will be one, big, dysfunctional family.”
The next course comes and we continue to talk through the rest of the delectable meal until I can’t eat anymore. James brings us dessert anyway. I have one bite, just to taste, and Puck finishes off the rest.
“Guess you like chocolate?” I ask.
“I do. My chef at home never makes me dessert so I figured I would enjoy it while I can,” he teases.
“Your chef knows that you’re not supposed to eat that kind of shit when you’re training,” I reply.
“Wouldn’t want her to find out. I heard about what she does to bad boys,” Puck answers with a wink and one of his usual sexual undertones.
“Speaking of personal chefs and bad boys,” I say, “what do you think about my job situation?”
“Which one?” he asks.
“The current one. The proposed one. I don’t know - I have some decisions to make,” I say uneasily.
“I think you have to do whatever will make you happy,” he answers hesitantly, “personally and professionally. What are your thoughts?”
I ponder what to say for a minute, “The opportunity presented by Maloney is unbelievable. It would be a huge move that could really escalate my career.”
“I sense a ‘but’,” he replies.
“But, it’s also a tremendous commitment and responsibility that I don’t know if I want to undertake right now.”
“Dani, you’re welcome to keep your job with me. I never asked you to leave,” Puck appeals.
“I know. I just don’t know how comfortable I’ll feel,” I explain, “being in your house all the time, cooking for you, dating you, getting paid. It’s just not right.”
“I don’t have a problem with it, but I see your point.” He contemplates his thoughts before continuing, “I can take care of you. You don’t have to work, you know.”
“That’s so nice of you. I appreciate the offer, and I know you would do that for me. It’s just not what I’m looking for,” I clarify, “I need to have my own life, not just belong to someone else. I also love what I do. I don’t want to give it up.”
“I get it. Why don’t you keep your job for now and continue to look for something else?” Puck proposes.
“There aren’t a lot of great opportunities around here,” I say, sipping my wine again, “how do you think Joanne convinced me to work for you in the first place?” I say lightly.
“Touché,” he replies, “if it takes a long time, that will be better for me anyway. I’m not looking to get rid of you, remember?”
“Well then, let’s just see what happens.”
“Deal.”
We finish what’s left in our glasses. Puck is driving and only had one glass of wine but there’s not very much left in the bottle. I stand up and realize I’m a little tipsy.
He takes my hand and leads me to the front door. We spent at least a couple of hours at dinner and there only seem to be a few patrons left in the restaurant. We say good night to James and ask him to thank the chef for the incredible meal and walk to the car. I get settled in the front seat and check my face quickly in the mirror before he gets in the driver’s side.
“Now what?” I ask, feeling frisky.
“I don’t know. What did you have in mind?” he asks playfully.
“I have a lot of things in mind,” I reply with a devilish grin.
“Oh yeah?” he answers, matching my playful tone.
“Mmm hmm”
“How about you come back to my house? I have practice at sunrise but you can just stay the night,” Puck offers.
“That would be really weird. What would I wake up and start working?” I wonder out loud.
He thinks for a second, “sure, why not? Does it matter? Everyone will know sooner or later.”
“I would prefer later. I’m not sure how I feel about it yet,” I admit, “but you can come back to my place.”
“I would love that, but I can’t tonight,” he says, “my coach would kill me if he even knew I was out right now - more so if he saw what I just ate.”
“Well, I don’t know what we’re going to do then. I don’t want you to make me wait again,” I reply, my face in an exaggerated pout.
“Fuck, baby. You’re going to make this hard for me,” he says.
“I’m hoping to,” I answer, finally able to come up with my own sexual innuendo.
“You’re crazy, baby,” he replies with a laugh, “let’s plan for another night. One where we can stay together until morning.”
“Fine,” I answer, giving in, “but you’re passing up an amazing opportunity.”
“Trust me, I know,” he replies, shooting his eyes down to the bulge that has formed in his jeans.
“I guess I didn’t really think about the details of our arrangement that well,” I sigh, “we’re going to have to work on that.”
“We do. I don’t think I can have you in my house all day and not have you to myself at night,” Puck considers, placing his hand on my thigh.
We drive the last couple of miles in silence, both wondering about the future, I’m sure. We have a lot to think about, but I know we want to be together, so somehow we’ll work everything out. I’m lost in a daydream when I feel Puck’s eyes on me. I didn’t realize he had pulled up in front of my building.
“Stop looking at me,” I tease.
“I like looking at you, you’re beautiful,” he answers, “what’s on your mind?”
I roll my eyes, “seriously?”
“Come on, baby. Don’t worry, we’ll work it all out,” he promises.
Puck gives me a reassuring smile and squeezes my thigh, then opens his door and gets out of the car. I pick up my purse and turn to the door, which Puck is already swinging open for me.
“Thank you, sir,” I joke.
Puck takes my hand and helps me from the bucket seat and up out of the small car. Normally I wouldn’t need him, but after a couple glasses of wine, I’m actually thankful to have a steady hand.
“Now let’s get you up to bed. You have to be at work early in the morning too,” Puck says.
Lacing his fingers in mine, we walk into the building and up to my apartment.
Chapter 22
DANI
* * *
I couldn’t have planned better if I tried. After all my wondering and worrying, Puck was right, things really just worked themselves out.
I applied for the few jobs that interested me and went on some interviews through a staffing agency, but nothing really panned out. I can’t say I’m that upset about it, I’ve really been enjoying my time working on Puck’s estate.
We sat down with Steven, Marla, and the rest of the house staff and explained what was going on between us. Everyone was so happ
y for us - maybe more so for Puck because they really admire him. Apparently everyone saw something between us long before I recognized it myself.
As we suspected, my father and Joanne couldn’t be happier. Joanne swears she knew we would wind up together - that it was our destiny. I don’t know if I believe all that, but I love her, so I play along. She’s always asking Puck when he’s going to propose, probably so she can start asking about grandchildren, but I’m content with the way things are now. I’m just thrilled that hockey season is coming to an end so we can spend some much needed time together.
I still work for Puck, but I don’t let him pay me the way he was initially. Although I know we’re in love, I still don’t want to feel like I’m being paid to be his girlfriend. I kept my own apartment, but I stay at the estate most nights. When he has a rare day off from practice or traveling, we try to spend it with each other. I’m thankful playoffs are starting next week. Puck promised when they’re over we could go on a nice vacation together.
This week, the team is in town getting ready for the playoffs. I’ll be going to the games which will be fun, but I’m still looking forward to some down time after. Puck has some intense practice sessions this week, but we will have a few evenings to enjoy each other’s company. I’ve been really strict with his meals and keeping him on track, so the whole house has been eating healthy. It will be nice to go out soon to enjoy a bottle of wine and have someone else do the cooking.
Chapter 23
PUCK
* * *
I have never been happier - ever. Having Dani in my life has been amazing. Being with her is incredible - more than I ever could have hoped for. And my team making it to the playoffs? Unbelievable. Having Dani there to cheer me on only makes it that much more awesome. In the end we may not have won the cup, but the experience was priceless.
I’m even a little proud of myself for working out her surprise while everything else has been going on. I spent so much time trying to figure out how to show her what she means to me. I’m pretty sure I nailed it. I don’t think she’s expecting it - I hope she loves it.
I’ve put so much thought and time into everything…
She better say ‘yes’.
Chapter 24
DANI
I’m so excited for this much needed night out. I can’t imagine what Puck’s surprise is, although I have an idea. Playoffs are over and he’s planned a trip to Napa to celebrate. He’s taking me on a culinary tour around the vineyards so I can ‘get new ideas’. I’ve always wanted to go there and if there’s more of a reason to celebrate, I’ll know soon enough.
Puck is taking me to the Harvest Bistro for dinner. We went there on our first official date and it has become the one place we escape to when we can actually go out. This time, he’s using a car service so he can indulge in more than one glass of wine and gorge himself on a nice meal. He deserves it - it’s been a while.
I put on a long, casual sundress. It’s royal blue and perfect for the Spring evening. I add some flat, strappy sandals and put on some make up. I have a couple of minutes before the car gets here so I put on a small pair of earrings and a bracelet. I take a final look in the mirror, and even though I have butterflies in my stomach, I’m satisfied with what I look like. I’ve been driving myself crazy all day wondering what the surprise is.
I take my purse and head outside. I’m too anxious to stand around and wait. The black sedan pulls up as I step out of the building. Puck opens the back door and steps out. He’s wearing my favorite outfit - dark jeans and a collared button down. He looks delicious.
“Hello, beautiful,” he greets me.
“Hey, handsome.”
Puck kisses me gently on the lips and holds his arm out, gesturing for me to get in the car. I climb inside and he follows, sitting next to me. The driver takes off and we head to the restaurant.
“Why do you look so nervous?” Puck asks.
“Just anxious to see what the big surprise is,” I reply, twisting my hands together.
“I thought you like surprises?” he responds.
“I do! I love the anticipation, but it still makes me antsy,” I reply.
“You’ll find out soon enough,” he promises, “let’s just try to enjoy a stress free night together - finally.”
“You’re right. Although it won’t be stress free until I know what you have in store for me,” I say with an inflated smile, “maybe you should just tell me now.”
“Not gonna happen, babe,” he replies with a grin.
The car pulls up to the bistro and I can’t wait to get out. We thank the driver and walk inside.
James is there, as always, to greet us.
“Mr. Tanner, Ms. Quinn, so nice to see you out and about,” he notes.
“Are you ever going to call me ‘Dani’?” I ask kindly.
“Probably not,” he replies, “I saved your usual table. Hopefully now that the season is over you’ll be able to come in more often,” he adds as we follow him to the back of the dining room.
“Oh, you know we will,” Puck replies.
Puck pulls my chair out for me and I take a seat. James brings over a bottle of wine without us asking.
“I heard about your upcoming trip to Napa, so I chose a nice California red,” James explains as he uncorks the bottle.
“Oh, you heard?” I ask curiously. I didn’t know him and Puck spoke outside the restaurant.
“Yes,” he stumbles on his words as he answers, “Mr. Tanner mentioned it to me when he made the reservation.”
James pours us each a glass and leaves the table to attend to a couple waiting at the host stand.
“Telling everyone about our vacation, are you?” I ask with a smirk.
“I’m just excited about it,” Puck says, “we have a lot of celebrating to do.”
“Do we?” I ask, raising my eyebrows.
“We do.”
Puck raises his glass to toast, “here’s to the next chapter in our life.”
I touch my glass to his, but before taking a sip I have to ask, “what’s the next chapter?”
“You’re looking at it,” he replies.
“You?” I ask, “is that my surprise because I’m pretty sure I already knew you were mine,” I tease him.
He’s making me wait, for someone who doesn’t play games, he’s sure enjoying this one.
“No. Well, yes, me, but, no,” he’s fumbling with his words.
His nervousness makes me smile. I take a sip of my wine.
“Dani, since the day you came back into my life, I’ve been trying to think of a way to make you happy. I want to make your dreams come true - all of them.” Puck explains, “one day I will make an honest woman out of you,” he winks, “but first I just want to enjoy you. I know you want your own life along with the one you share with me. I know you want to achieve your own success, using your own talents, and I know how important that is to you.”
Puck takes my hands in his and gazes into my eyes as he continues, “I know you have the talent to do whatever you want, and you gave up a big opportunity to be with me - I will never forget that. But I want you to have this. I want you to have it all, baby. I love you.”
His words bring tears to my eyes, but I still don’t know what his surprise is.
“I love you too, Puck, so much,” I reply, “but I’m confused,” I chuckle.
“This is yours, Dani.”
He gestures around the dining room, indicating the restaurant.
“What?” I can’t believe what he’s saying.
“Come Monday, this place belongs to us - to you,” he beams at me.
“Shut up,” is the only response I have.
Puck laughs, “seriously, babe, it’s yours.”
I have no words. A restaurant? I was expecting a ring as my surprise, but this is a million times better. He really does know me well.
“Holy shit,” I say. I’m in complete shock.
“Crazy, right?” he replies, “James told
me when we were leaving last month that the chef, who is also the owner, was going to be putting the place up for sale. He’s moving on to a new, bigger venture. So I jumped on it before he had a chance to list it,” Puck explains, “I hope you like it.”
“Are you kidding? I love it!” I jump out of my seat and run around the table. I wrap my arms around him and kiss him several times on his cheek.
“This is the most amazing, incredible,” I’m trying to find the right words, “I don’t know how to thank you, Puck. This is just… I never,” I trail off and gaze around the dining room.
James walks back over to the table, “I guess you told her?” he asks, getting a laugh from my child like excitement.
“You knew?” I ask, “of course you knew,” I answer my own question, putting all the pieces together.
“Yes, and Mr. Tanner promised I would still have my job if I kept the secret.”
“Of course!” I exclaim. I turn around and give James a hug too, “thank you so much.”
“Don’t thank me, Ms. Tanner, I didn’t do anything,” he replies.
“If you hadn’t said anything, this may have never been possible,” Puck chimes in.
I slowly walk around the dining room, as if noticing it for the first time. My own restaurant. I’m already envisioning all the things I’ll be doing here. I really can’t believe this is happening.
I make my way back to the table and sit back down. Puck is leaning back in his chair, enjoying my reaction.
“I’m glad you’re happy with your surprise. I’ve been second guessing myself the last few days,” he admits.
“‘Happy’ doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel,” I reply, looking around again.
“Seeing you like this,” he says, leaning in, “it means everything to me.”
“I hope I can do the same for you some day,” I answer.
“You already have, baby,” he assures me, “and this is only the beginning.”
* * *
PUCK (A BAD BOY HOCKEY ROMANCE) Page 13