Page 110 of Tempting Miles
I’m used to her being in my house. In my bed. Seeing her every day at work while she bosses around construction workers twice her size is my kryptonite.
It became part of my life without me even realizing it.
But I can’t ask her to stay.
Because no matter how bad I want to change the rules, she hasn’t mentioned a single thing that makes me think she wants that too.
“Yeah, yeah,” I mutter, doing my best to play it cool. “She’s right. We’re basically done here.”
Gio beams at my confirmation. “You two are the dream team. Please forgive me if I don’t share your praises once we start the marketing phase. I don’t want anyone getting ideas about stealing you two away from here.”
“Oh yeah?” I lean back in my chair. “What are you thinking about building next? Between your mansion, the rehab center, and the ice rink, this town is at capacity.”
I joke, but inside I’m holding my breath, hoping like hell he says he has ten more projects lined up so Penny has a reason to stay.
Gio laughs. “I’m sure I’ll come up with something soon. But right now I’m completely devoted to my wife, the rink inauguration, and watching Merlin kick ass in the National Soccer League.”
“From one to ten, how painful was it to say soccer instead of fútbol,” Xander asks, a shit-eating grin spreading across his face.
Gio clutches his chest like he’s been wounded. “Infinity.”
The room erupts in laughter.
“I know he’s young, but I’m hoping he gets called up to the National Team,” Penny says excitedly, and my head snaps toward her.
“What?” She shrugs. “I like soccer. My mom’s Colombian. I grew up watching soccer.”
She and Gio exchange a ridiculous little fist bump, and I roll my eyes.
“And my brother’s a professional player,” I say smugly. “So technically, I’m cooler than all of you.”
“My country has won the World Cup three times, brother,” Gio points at himself proudly. “So unless Merlin brings the cup home to the US next year…”
“Alright, alright.” Penny laughs as she grabs her bag and heads toward the door. “Let’s stop the bragging please. I hate when I can’t compete.”
“Wait a minute.” Xander frowns. “Why can’t you compete?”
“Because, my dear Xander…” Penny sighs. “Colombia’s never winning that cup. At least not with the men's team.”
Xander looks genuinely offended on behalf of an entire country.
“Our team plays like gods when they want to, but when it’s time to go up against the best and actually win something…” Penny clicks her tongue. “They get in their heads every single time.”
She says it like she’s lived through the heartbreak one too many times.
“Maybe they need mental coaching,” Xander offers easily.
“Maybe.” Penny waves her hand dismissively. “But I’m just a sports fan.”
She holds the door, glances back at us, then gives a little wave before disappearing down the hallway.
When she’s gone, Xander turns toward me. “Did Valentine’s flop or something?”
“What? No.” I give him the stink eye. “It was the best fucking day of my life.”
“So? Why is she leaving then?” He wonders.
“Because we never said we were together.” I force out a shrug. “We were just having a good time while she was here.”
