“Reckon I don’t.” Unlike his brother’s fascination with UFO’s, he’d wasn’t into anything supernatural.
“You’ve never questioned what else might be in this universe?” Her hand went to her hip.
“Seems like a waste of good pondering. Don’t tell me you’re into that stuff?”
“As a matter of fact, yes.” She eyed the poster, picked up the bag, and took out the bow and quiver. “How many points for hitting the tip of the Cupid’s arrow?”
“A hundred. Five for anywhere on the poster.”
Releasing her arrow, it sailed into its mark. “Got it.”
His mouth fell open, and he snapped his jaw shut. “Wow, you’re good.”
“Thanks.” She scrunched her brows together. “If I hit the next two, you’ll have to promise to listen to me with an open mind.”
“Thought I already was.”
“Not exactly.” Her lips pursed for some odd reason. “What’s next?”
“The third bottle. The green one.”
Her arrow hit the center and knocked the bottle over the back of the haystacks.
“Where’d you learn to shoot like this?” He’d never seen anything this remarkable.
“My father taught me.” She flipped her braid behind her. “Do you believe in angels?”
“Hard to believe in something you can’t see.”
“What about Cupids?”
“Nope.”
She looked up at the sky as if she’d find the words written up there. “What if I told you I am a Cupid?”
“Oh really.” He stared at her stone-cold-serious expression. This was weird.
She turned her wrist up to him. “My heart emblem’s proof.”
“Lots of people have tattoos.” He couldn’t resist adding, “Bet you’ve got a butterfly on your butt.”
“Rhett, you’re not listening.”
“Not a butterfly, then maybe a dragon.” He teased, while he pictured her firm butt.
“I don’t have a tattoo on my bottom.” Unconsciously, she licked her top lip as she stood. Mighty enticing. “You don’t believe me?”
“Be whatever makes you happy.” He imagined her wearing a sexy Cupid costume. Cupid or not, he liked her.
“I give up.” Her eyes miffed, her stance rigid, she secured the last arrow in place.
“Think you can hit the dot above the i in Valentine’s?”
“Cherub’s play.” In seconds the arrow’s tip wedged into the dot. She went to the target and removed the arrows, handed him the bow. “Let’s see how you do?”
“As if I can match your flawless performance.” Losing usually bugged him, but he didn’t mind being bested by her. “What’s my target?”
“I’ll be generous and give you a hundred points for the Cupid’s wing. Anywhere on the poster for five.”
He aimed, released, and his arrow sailed over the top. “Shit. I could use a few pointers.”
“Aim. Watch the arrow until it hits the target.”
“Care to show me?” He anticipated her instructive arms around him.
“You're a big boy.” Her slight pout made him think about kissing her enticing lips. “Figure it out for yourself.”
“Where's the fun in that?”
“Take your turn or forfeit.” She had that get-serious stance, the one where her hand cemented on her hip.
“Fine.” He concentrated and hit the bottom of the poster.
“That’s a little better.”
He shot again, and his arrow hit a can that twirled behind the haystack. “That one’s worthy of a kiss.”
“You only hit one out of three.”
He followed her to the target. They each removed an arrow. Reaching for the third arrow as she did, his hand covered hers. “You’re quite a marksman.” He admired her competitive spirit, turned to face her, and leaned in for a kiss, teasing her lips with his tongue. Temptation at its finest.
She splayed her hands against his chest and pushed back, her face flushed, her lips moist. “Are you going to take your turn?”
“I’d rather watch you shoot.”
“If that’s what you want.”
He wanted her in his arms but kept the comment to himself and walked next to her at the shooting line. In seconds, all three arrows sailed inside different hearts on the poster.
“You’re talented.” He assisted her with retrieving the arrows. “Ever try out for the Olympics?”
Her smile waned. “I’m okay. I’ve competed against better archers.”
“Are you kidding? You’re phenomenal.” He yanked her into his arms. Her body melted against his. When his lips grazed hers, she sighed his name, and he deepened their kiss. He got lost in the sheer pleasure as they kissed until she pulled back.
Her face flushed, her lips reddened. “Let’s go back. I need to get started on dinner.”
He couldn’t fault her for being a competent housekeeper. Her tenacity was one of the reasons she drew him in, but her timing was plain awful.
Chapter Fifteen
Dawn broke the darkness as it cast a rosy glow across the land. Rhett swigged coffee and listened for Cami’s boot steps. He spotted her golden hair several yards away.
“Hello,” she smiled with the kind of smile that made him happy deep inside his heart.
“I’ve got a surprise for you in the house.”
“Really?” She raced inside.
“It’s the package on the table.”
She tore open the box like a kid on Christmas morning. Her eyes glimmered as she pressed the long-sleeved shirt against her chest. “A Silver Wings jersey. You’re the best.” She snaked her arms around his neck practically choking him.
“Glad you like it.” He peeled off her hold on him. “Look at the back.”
“Calypso! It has my name and number 39. I love it,” she squealed and slipped the jersey over her T-shirt. It fit loose. “You are the nicest human ever.”
“Human? As opposed to what?” He couldn't resist teasing.
“Let me refrain. You’re the best guy in the galaxy.” She snuggled closer to him.
“I aim to please.” He took out an envelope from his jeans’ pocket and placed the two tickets in her palm.
“We’re going to a hockey game tomorrow night! I can’t believe it.” She spoke unusually fast.
“You missed this.” He reached inside the package, yanked out a cap, and placed it on her head.
“You went all out.”
“I like making you happy.” He surprised himself. With most women, he dreaded buying them gifts. Most women wanted expensive jewelry, not sports gear.
“Where’s the Seismic Center?”
“Couple of hours drive depending on traffic. Since the game ends late, I’ve booked us a hotel room.”
Her shoulders stiffened, and her eyes widened.
“You’ll have your own room.”
She looked toward the fireplace, not him.
He tugged on her hat’s bill. “Might want to rethink the jersey. We’re sitting on the home team’s side. Everyone’ll be wearing purple.”
“Switching teams would be blasphemy. I’ve been a Silver Wings fan since I was ten.” She kissed his cheek. “I’m wearing this shirt every day for the next week.”
“Without washing it?”
“And take the newness out of the fabric?”
“Do what you want,” he chuckled. “I’m rooting for the Seismics.”
“You must love losing because the Silver Wings will win.” She stood. “I’ll make breakfast.”
“Breakfast can wait.” He seized her hand and brought her back on his lap, taking advantage that no one was around.
~ ~ ~
About five the next evening, Cami and Rhett entered the Seismic’s Center through one of the dozens of glass doors. She gripped Rhett’s arm tightly, not about to be separated from him as the crowd’s momentum pushed them forward.
“You all right,” he asked, and led her to the left.
&nb
sp; “I can’t believe I’ll see a Silver Wings game live.” She gawked at a mural of a Seismic player slamming a goal into a net. Simply amazing.
“I forgot how awesome this place is.” His arm went around her shoulders. The gesture gave her a sense of security and made her feel cherished.
“I’m starving. Pizza okay?” He took off his Seismic’s cap and eyed her.
Without a doubt, she was falling for him. This was bad. Very bad. Forbidden. “Sure. Make mine half veggie.”
Throngs of people paraded, fascinating her as she stood next to him in line. Families passed by in matching purple jerseys. An older man draped his arm around a much younger woman. Complexions varied from dark to light pink with freckles.
“Hey, pretty girl.”
A chill crept up her spine. The man’s voice sounded like her uncle speaking. She turned slowly and saw a man tugging on a three-year-old’s pigtails.
Relieved, her pulse still ticked fast. She shouldn’t be here with Rhett. Too late now.
“Here you go.” He handed her a soda, held the box, and placed his beer on top. “
She glanced at the handsome man beside her. Forget the mistaken voice and enjoy this marvelous night. Nothing bad will happen.
“We’re in the Terrace Center.” They followed the arrow on the wall and stopped at the four-hundred section. The usher checked their tickets and pointed them to the front row.
Seeing the steep steps, she grasped the rail and clung on until they reached their row. Two women stood and let them pass by. One eyed Rhett’s good looks, and Cami couldn’t deny feeling proud to be his date.
She took her seat, sipped soda, licked her lips, and caught Rhett staring at her. His knee pushed against hers as he opened the pizza box. “Take a piece.”
“I love it here. Thanks for the tickets.” No one had ever done anything this thoughtful for her without another motive. As a little girl, her father took her out of town to watch an archery championship. At the time, she thought it was because she’d been really good. In actuality, he’d taken her to the meet to show her his future expectations. This trip was about her interests.
Rhett’s free hand moved behind her chair.
The enormous screen zoomed in on a man smoothing out the ice with his machine. “I Want to Drive the Zamboni” drifted throughout the speakers. Folks sang along, herself and Rhett included. Rhett was a tinge off key, showing imperfection—her favorite new word.
The Silver Wings skated onto the rink. The announcer called out each player. His picture, number, and position flashed on the top of the screen. Then he called, “Playing center, number eighty-five, Vic Vanrazzo.”
Excitement buzzed through her veins. “You’re the best,” she shouted at the player who’d been her crush for over a decade. When he skated, the dark-haired man owned the ice. His ability to maneuver around the opponent and steal the puck. Extraordinary.
The players placed their helmets over their hearts for the National Anthem. The singer blasted out the song, a little too operatic for Cami’s taste.
The team captains shook hands signaling the game was about to begin. Cami held her breath and sent positive vibes to her team.
The referee dropped the puck, and the purple team snagged it.
“Don’t let that idiot pass,” she shouted, “take it back.”
During an assist, Vanrazzo stole the puck. “That’s it. Now go for the goal.” Cami chewed her nails. Vanrazzo passed to Drayton. The Seismics kidnapped the puck.
“Good steal,” Rhett said.
“Bite your tongue,” she snapped and kept her eyes fixed on the game.
“The Silver Wings are down for the count.” He put his arm around her shoulders, but she shook it off and stood.
“No, they’re not. Bardoff will get the puck. See. He’s close.”
Smith passed the puck to his teammate. Rhett’s laugh aggravated her. Then Bardoff stole it, preventing the Seismics from taking advantage of the play.
“Told you.” She watched Bardoff bring the puck down the rink. “Yes,” she yelled, “You’re clear. Shoot!”
The puck crossed the goal line between the two posts.
Lights flashed. Many in the crowd moaned. She cheered, elated to see her team ahead.
“That’s the last point the Silver Wings will get,” Rhett snarled.
“You’re deranged.” She laughed, or more like hooted. “Now quiet down, I’m watching the game.”
“Can’t. The kiss cam’s on us.” Rhett leaned over. Their lips smacked as he heisted a kiss and savored her mouth. She forgot about the game until she heard the crowd’s applause.
“Cami, look.” He motioned to the monitor. The camera closed in on her and Rhett. A heart formed around the two of them. Their kiss replayed on every screen in the arena.
Her face heated, but she couldn't quit watching. The camera focused on Rhett as he glanced up. His smile broadened, and, my gosh, he was handsome. On the screen, she saw how he gently tapped her arm. His lips touched hers. It was as if she were watching a romantic movie, except it was one with her and Rhett. Her core tingled.
Wait, the video feed was public. Apprehension crept up her spine. Would the council see the video of Rhett kissing her? Not likely anyone in Cupid’s Corner would be watching this hockey game. If they did, they’d assume she was a mortal. That didn’t stop her stomach from twisting.
She concentrated on the game and found herself biting her lip as the opponent stole the puck.
“Go for a goal, Manny,” Rhett screamed, “yes!”
“Accidental, if you ask me.” She grumbled as the Seismics scored again.
“Now who’s deranged.” He leaned over and kissed her cheek.
“Hush. The Silver Wings will win.” They had to win, but once again Rhett’s team had possession, took the puck to the goal and shot.
The Silver Wings goalie blocked it. Cami gloated, “Thought your team would score, huh?”
“They will.” He squeezed her hand.
“Hand holding won’t save your sainted Seismics.” She jerked away.
Darn Rhett for laughing. “Now about that wager?”
“Shh. Watch the game.” She heard cheers, checked the screen. “Vanrazzo scored, and I missed it.”
The game continued. Bardoff elbowed Smith and slammed him into the wall. Vanrazzo stole the puck. Smith and Bardoff swung fists. The referee blew his whistle. “Double-minor for unnecessary roughness. Seismics have possession.”
“Unfair!” she shouted. “Smith elbowed first.”
“Calm down,” Rhett taunted in a slow drawl. “The referee’s just doing his job.”
“He’s blind.” She pinched her lips together, irritated he’d side with the idiotic official.
“No, he’s not” Rhett chuckled, and she slapped his arm.
For the next hour, they bantered and watched the game until the end.
“Told you we’d win. I almost feel sorry for you.” Cami had been on the losing end plenty of times.
“The Seismics will be the victor next time. I’ll order tickets.”
“You’re not upset?” Most males hated losing.
“Maybe a little. Kiss me and make me feel better.” His mouth pressed against hers. “Let’s blow out of here.” He offered his hand and helped her up, leaving her lips woefully disappointed.
Chapter Sixteen
Well after eleven, Rhett guided Cami across the hotel lobby. She stopped in front of a three-tiered fountain and gazed into the water. “What’s with all the coins?”
“People make wishes. Haven’t you ever tossed a coin in one?”
“No.” Curious she scooted closer. “What did they wish for?”
“Don’t know? Money, health, love.” He reached into his pocket and handed her a few quarters. “Have at it.”
She held the coin, closed her eyes, and tossed a quarter toward the center. “Will my wish come true?”
“I’d like to think so.”
“Then you must make you
r own.” She gave him a coin.
“Not a bad idea.” He flicked the quarter between his thumb and forefinger, and it sailed into the middle section.
“What’d you wish for?”
“If I tell, it won’t be granted.” Like he’d mention wishing they’d share a room. “You have any quarters left?”
“I’m done.” She wore a satisfied smile.
“Check-ins over here.” He put his hand on her shoulder and steered her several yards forward to the counter.
The desk clerk pushed up his thick black glasses and called Rhett.
“I have a reservation for two rooms,” Rhett said, “would prefer connecting ones.”
“We’re pretty full. The best I can do is two floors apart.” The young clerk typed on his keyboard. “Interesting.” He clicked more keys and looked up grinning, “Since you’re a premium member, for no extra charge we could upgrade you to a penthouse with two separate bedrooms. It’s spacious, has a great view of the city.”
“You game?” Rhett asked.
“Okay.”
“The elevator’s to your right.” He handed Rhett two room keys.
As they walked, Rhett asked, “Ever stay in a suite before?”
“Can’t say I have.” The elevator dinged, and the door opened. She hesitated.
“You change your mind?”
“No.” She stepped inside, and he pushed number twenty-four.
The compartment jerked upward, and she fell into him.
“Careful.” Wrapping his arms around her waist, he appreciated how her body melded against his. The elevator climbed, stopped at the floor, and dinged open. Holding hands, they looked at the numbers on the wall.
“2415 is to the left,” he said, and they roamed the long hallway to the far end.
“This is us.” He put the key in the door. His wish came true. Figuratively, they’d share a room.
“Holy Aphrodite. This is fancy.” She barreled inside and gazed out the floor length windows. “You’ve gotta see this view. We’re practically up in the clouds.”
He snagged his arms around her waist; his mouth teased her neck. A knock interrupted him.
“Room service,” a voice called.
He snuggled before letting go and answered the door. A concierge rolled in a cart. “Compliments of the hotel. Where do you want this?”
Cowboy's Cupid Page 14