Fielding Her SECRET (Corrigan & Co. Book 1)

by Crystal Perkins

  “I’m sorry, Ainsley. I shouldn’t have said that in front of you.”

  “You shouldn’t have said that at all. What the hell is wrong with you?”

  “Talk to him, Zack. I’ll meet you back at my place.”

  “You sure? I can talk to him another day.”

  “Yes, I’m sure. He flew out to see you.”

  “Give us a minute, Dex,” I tell him as I pull her a little ways down the hall. “I won’t be long, babe. Can you please keep the jersey on?”

  “Take as long as you need. Of course I’ll leave it on if you want. I was a little worried about wearing it. I know other women wear them all the time.”

  “They wear my jersey to try and impress me, but it only makes them look desperate. You wore it to support me, and it makes you look like the hottest woman on the planet. Thank you. I mean it.”

  “You’re welcome. Thanks for incurring that fine to kiss me.”

  “I just got a warning this time, but I’m doing it at every game you’re on the sidelines for.”

  “You’ll get fined every time if you were already warned.”

  “Will you let me move in with you when I run out of money?”

  “Maybe.”

  “I’m going to turn that maybe into a yes tonight. I better go take care of Dex, so I can get back to you faster.”

  “Okay. Do I get your mouth for a few minutes first?”

  “Oh yeah.”

  I lean down and brush her lips with mine. It’s not enough for her. She grabs the collar of my shirt to pull me against her. I smile against her lips as she crushes them into mine. We’re broken apart by the sound of Dex clearing his throat.

  “I’ll see you soon, Zack.”

  “Very soon,” I tell her as I kiss her knuckles. She smiles at me and walks away. I watch her go. “Alright, man. Let’s get this over with.”

  Chapter 9

  Ainsley

  Since I’m not sure how long Zack will be meeting with Dex, I decide that ordering in probably won’t work. I stop at the grocery store to pick up some chicken. I have a freezer full of great meat, but since I didn’t plan on cooking, it’s of no use to me tonight. I grab a couple of other things I know he’ll like and then drive to my apartment. I say hi to the guards in the lobby, and ride the elevator to my floor.

  I’d like to say I’m surprised when I get off the elevator and see my apartment door is open, but I’m not. I shake my head as I walk in. “You guys are fast, I’ll give you that.”

  “What the hell happened? I nearly burst into flames when that hot man of yours kissed you after his touchdown. He claimed you in front of the whole world. I was expecting some elevator action, at least.” Stella fans herself to emphasize her words.

  “I would’ve shut off the elevator cameras if I was going to get any action in there. As for Zack, his agent showed up and insisted on meeting. He’ll be here as soon as he’s done.”

  “You’re cooking him dinner?”

  “Nothing compared to your work, Faith. Just some chicken and veggies,” I tell her as I drop the bags on the counter and start taking things out.

  “Listen girls, I need to talk to Ainsley. Alone,” Reina says. They all grumble a little, but file out. When they’re gone, she walks into the kitchen and leans against the counter as I start cooking. “I think you know what I’m going to tell you.”

  I place my hands on the counter and hang my head. “Because of the publicity from the ball, and now the game, I’ll never be able to go undercover again. I understand if you’re firing me, Reina.”

  “Firing you? Never. But yes, you won’t be able to go out on missions after this one.”

  “The same thing would’ve happened if I’d followed the plan and dated Kevin. We would’ve been photographed.”

  “There was a chance of it, yes. But from what we can tell, he would’ve kept things discreet if you’d asked. And I don’t think you would’ve fallen for him.”

  “I know I’ve screwed up, okay?” I tell her as I feel tears forming in my eyes.

  I love my job, but if I can’t go on any missions, ever, I shouldn’t be an agent. They should find someone to replace me and just make me a part of that person’s team. Reina puts her arms around me and hugs me tight.

  “You didn’t screw up. You fell in love. We all want to find a great guy to be with. Does it suck that it happened on a mission? Let alone, with a guy who’s a suspect? Yes, it does. But Jane and I agree that you are valuable to us as both an employee, and as part of our family. Besides, we all know how talented Stella is. You should be fine for short-term assignments if she disguises you. Your place with us is secure.”

  “You’re sure?” I ask as I pull away to look at her.

  “Yes. We need you, Ainsley. And we love you.”

  “I love you, too.”

  “Now that this is all settled, I’ll leave you to your cooking and your man.”

  “I’m not sure when he’ll be here, but thanks.”

  There’s a knock at my door and I look over to Reina, who shrugs. “I saw him on the security monitor. I’ll let him in on my way out.”

  She kisses my cheek and walks to the door. When she opens it, Zack grabs her. “I couldn’t wai—oh shit, you’re not Ainsley. I’m so sorry. I didn’t know she had company.” He immediately lets her go and steps away.

  “It’s fine, Zack. I’m Reina.” She holds out her hand, and they shake. “We saw each other at the ball, but it’s nice to officially meet you.”

  “Yeah, you too.” He still looks embarrassed and I fall a little more in love with him.

  “I’ll see you later, Ainsley.”

  “Bye.” She closes the door behind her, and I smile at Zack. “Are you going to come over here and grab me now?”

  “Are you making fun of me?” he asks as he walks to me.

  “No. I’m loving that you’re always yourself with me. And my friends.”

  “Honesty is important to me, Ains. Probably the most important thing. You’re always honest with me, so why wouldn’t I be honest when I’m with you?”

  My heart sinks because I’m not being honest with him, but I’ve been trained well enough to keep a smile on my face as I answer him. “I’m so glad to have you in my life.”

  “The feeling is mutual.”

  He cups my cheeks with his hands and kisses me sweetly. I wrap my arms around his back to pull him close. When we break apart, we continue holding onto each other for another few moments. It feels nice to hug him.

  “I should probably finish dinner.”

  “I thought you were ordering in.”

  “I was going to, but I didn’t know how long your meeting would take.” I turn around and put the veggies in a pan to cook. Then I start prepping the chicken for the oven.

  “Too long. Let me help.”

  “No. You grab a beer and sit on the couch. You played a hard game. Actually, if you want, my bathtub doubles as a Jacuzzi. You can soak while I cook if you’d like.”

  “I was hoping we’d soak together.”

  “If we get in that tub together, none of your muscles will be relaxing.”

  “True. Very, very true. You don’t mind if I soak? I really feel like I should help you, but I’m also a little sore.”

  “Go,” I tell him as I swat his butt this time.

  “Yes, boss,” he tells me as he leans over to kiss me before heading up the stairs.

  I finish dinner and carry our plate upstairs. Zack left the bathroom door open, which makes it easier for me to sneak in. He has his eyes closed and headphones in, as the water swirls around his glorious body. I quietly set the plate down and take a pic with my cell phone. It’s just for me, and not going anywhere near a Cloud, but I had to have it.

  I drag the little step stool I have over to the side of the tub and perch there with our food. I don’t want to scare Zack, so I lean over and lightly brush my lips over his. He smiles and takes his headphones out before opening his eyes.

  “Hi.”<
br />
  “Hi. You brought the food to me?”

  “Yeah. I figured you could soak a little longer if I fed you.”

  “You’re going to feed me?”

  “Yes…I mean…if that’s okay…if you want me to. Is that too weird?”

  “Why are you nervous, babe? We not only had sex all over this apartment yesterday, but you know you’re one of the best friends I’ve ever had in my life. In addition to being my first real girlfriend.”

  “All of those reasons are why I’m nervous. I’ve never had sex like that, and while I’m pretty sure you enjoyed it, I’m still nervous that I did something wrong. I would never want to lose our friendship because I love just spending time talking to you. And you have to remember, you’re my first boyfriend. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do to keep you.”

  He’s out of the tub and kneeling in front of me before I can say anything else. He grabs the plate from my hand and uses his long arm to place it by the sink. He takes my hands in his and looks me in the eye. “Enjoyed it? Yesterday was hands down the best sex I’ve ever had. Nothing I’ve ever done with another woman has come close. I’m pretty sure it’s because I never cared for anyone else the way I care for you. Fuck, I’m just going to say it. I love you, Ainsley. There’s no more falling going on. I’m already there. Nothing you could ever do would be wrong. I love everything you do. Not to mention, I find it all incredibly hot. Bringing me the food you cooked while I’m soaking my muscles in your bathtub? Hot. Five alarm fire hot, babe.

  “I don’t ever want to lose our friendship either. I have so much fun with you, even when you’re calling me on my bullshit. I feel like I can talk to you about anything, and you’ll react honestly. Donaldson told me today that I’m going to screw things up with you. I’m so scared that he’s right. I still don’t know what someone so brilliant, sexy, and beautiful would want with a reformed man-whore who can’t stop himself from flirting.”

  “We’ll both have to try our best not to screw up. And since I was the one who reformed the man-whore, I’m not letting him go. Flirting is okay. I know you have to do it. And that it’s just in your nature to be charming. You’ve stopped signing and touching women’s breasts, and I appreciate that. I’ve also seen you move hands off your ass lately.”

  “I only want to charm you. And touch your magnificent breasts. My ass is owned, so no one else should have their hands on it.”

  “Owned, huh?”

  “You own all of me, Ains. I’m yours for as long as you’ll have me.”

  “Forever works. Is there anything I can do, though? I really want to know if there’s something you want from me.”

  “There is something I want. But it has to come from you when you’re ready. If you’re ready.”

  “What is it?”

  “Just three little words.”

  “Oh my God—I didn’t say it back, did I? I love you, Zack. I do. I love you.”

  “That’s a relief.”

  “Were you really worried?”

  “Honestly? Yeah, a little. I’ve been an ass for much of our friendship.”

  “But you’ve been wonderful since you became my boyfriend.”

  “Almost 24 hours. That has to be a record.”

  “Now that this is all settled, you should get back in the Jacuzzi.”

  “Just as long as you realize that you’re going to be joining me in there.”

  “With the jersey still on, right?”

  “Oh yeah. The jersey may get moved around, but it’s definitely staying on tonight.”

  * * *

  Zack

  I wake up to a pillow whacking me over the head. “What the fuck?” I grab Ainsley and roll her over, pinning her to the bed beneath me.

  “I tried waking you up nicely, but it didn’t work. We have to get to the stadium!”

  “Well maybe if some sexy goddess hadn’t fucked me into a near coma a few hours ago, I’d be able to get up on time.”

  “This is my fault? If I remember correctly, our last time occurred while you had me bent over the bed.”

  “You were bucking into me. It made me so crazy I couldn’t think straight.”

  “You going to tell Coach that’s why we’re late?”

  “Hell no. I’m going to keep my mouth shut and run my laps.”

  “Good answer. Now hurry up and shower.”

  We walk into the medical area of the stadium a half hour later, and Coach immediately storms over to us. “You’re late. This better not become a habit,” he yells as he glares at Ainsley.

  “Don’t look at her. She was whacking me over the head with a pillow, trying to wake me up on time.”

  “Well maybe if she’d kept her legs closed last night, you’d be on time for your check-up.”

  Ainsley gasps as I grab him by the shirt and get in his face. “I don’t care who you are. If you ever talk about her like that again, I’ll end you.”

  “I’d fire him before it came to that. Apologize to her,” Jack Rivers says to him, looking like he wants to get in his face, too.

  “Are you kidding?” Coach asks.

  “No. I’m dead serious. What you just said is considered sexual harassment and Ainsley could sue us for it. Putting that aside, she is a valuable member of my staff and deserves respect. I won’t stand for you speaking to her like that.”

  “Damn laws. A man can’t be a man anymore.”

  “That wasn’t an apology.”

  “I’m not giving one. She can sue me, and you can suspend me. But she shouldn’t be working here when all she wants is to fuck our star players.”

  I start to move, but Ainsley grabs my arm. “I got this, Zack.” She turns to Coach. “I’m here because Jack asked me to help you. I know I’ve helped this team. I am not here to ‘fuck’ the players. I’m with Zack for the man he is, and not the player.”

  “Player is the right word for him.”

  “At least he has some play, Kevin. And he treats me with respect. You talked to me like I was an idiot when we met, which is why we didn’t even make it to one date.”

  Hearing Ainsley defend herself and me is hot. Really hot. I like that she doesn’t need me to take care of her. Although, I definitely can and would if it came down to it. I’m pretty sure she knows that.

  “Go home, Jim. You’re suspended for the week, unless you apologize to Ainsley.”

  “This team is a joke, anyway. I’m not apologizing. See how you do without a head coach.”

  “This team has won every pre-season game so far, and the rest of the coaching staff can step up. You’re not irreplaceable.”

  “Good luck with that.” I see him share a look with Donaldson as he storms out.

  “The show’s over everyone. Get your physicals and enjoy your days off. I’ll see you all back here on Wednesday. Ainsley, can I speak to you for a few minutes?”

  “Sure.” She turns to me. “I’ll see you after your physical.”

  I nod. “I’ve got laps after. If I don’t see you by then, I’ll hang out in the lobby.”

  “Thanks.” She smiles at me before walking out with Jack.

  I pass my post-game physical, and head to the indoor track. I’ve done one lap, when Ainsley jogs onto the track next to me. “What’re you doing, babe?”

  “Running with you. It was partially my fault that you were late. Plus, I thought it would be cool to work out together today. If you want.”

  “Actually, I really wanted to go solo today. I just need to clear my head. I’m sorry, but I just really need to be alone right now.”

  “Oh. I mean, sure, yeah.”

  She stops running and I feel like shit as I keep going. But I really do need some time to think. Over the past few days, I’ve made decisions to change where I want to live my life and who I want to live it with. Dex put some thoughts in my head, and while I blocked them out last night, what happened this morning brought them all back to the front of my mind. Should I really be making all my decisions based on what Ainsley wants? Why
am I the only one sacrificing? I love her, but if she loves me too, she should be offering to make changes as well.

  I don’t have time to think about it further as the ground rumbles beneath me, and the track starts to crumble in front of me. I manage to jump to the side as the area I was running on crumbles away. What the fuck? I look over the side once the ground stops shaking, and see that the weight room has been destroyed by the rubble from the track collapsing above it. I hope to God that no one was down there.

  “Zack,” Ainsley yells as she comes through the door to the track with Donaldson, Jack, and the stadium security. “Oh my God. You’re okay.”

  “I am. I jumped out of the way.”

  “That’s really lucky. I don’t know that I could’ve done that if I’d been taken by surprise.”

  “I guess I have better reflexes than you, Donaldson.” I turn to security. “What the hell happened?”

  “There was a small explosion. Luckily no one was in the weight room. You were alone up here, right?”

  “Yeah. I wanted to run alone.”

  I look over to Ainsley, and she has a weird look on her face. I can only describe it as suspicious, but that can’t be right. I’ll ask her about it later.

  Police arrive a couple minutes later and separate everyone so they can ask us what happened and what we might’ve seen. I’m pretty sure my interviews take the longest. I expect to see Ainsley waiting for me when I get done, but she’s not in the lobby. I ask the receptionist if she’s seen her, and she tells me that my girl got a ride home from one of her friends. What the fuck? I really don’t need this drama on top of almost getting killed today. This is why I don’t do more than sleep with women. I have more to think about now than I did earlier, so I head home to call my sister.

  Chapter 10

  Ainsley

  I called Faith to pick me up from the stadium. I need to talk to Reina and Jane, and I also didn’t want to see Zack. It hurt me when he told me he didn’t want me with him. And getting me off the track before the explosion now makes him look even guiltier.

  “Okay. Zack got you off the track before the explosion. And he wanted off the team until the two of you got together. But he met with his agent after the game yesterday, which could mean he changed his mind. Did he act any differently with you last night?”