Page 77 of Risking the Pucking Defense

Hailee: Stop apologizing. The rest of my night dragged a little too, mingling, small talk, all I wanted to do was take my shoes off and change into something more comfortable.

Hayden: That’s a damn shame because that dress…did I already mention how hot you looked?

My cheeks flame and I lift my hand, fanning myself.

Hailee: You may have mentioned it. Thank you. The dress was a little more—or less—than I’d usually wear to a work event, but I fell in love with it and couldn’t stop myself.

Hayden: I’m glad you didn’t stop yourself. You looked incredible. Most beautiful woman in the room, hands down.

Hailee: Stop.

Hayden: Only speaking the truth. Didn’t you see the way all the men looked at you?

Hailee: No, I didn’t.

I only saw the way you looked at me.

You need to shut this down, Hailee. It’s leading into dangerous territory.

Hayden: Distracted, huh? Maybe by someone in a tux?

Hailee: Every man in the room was wearing a tux…

Hayden: There must have been one who caught your eye…

Hailee: Compliments don’t land the same when you’re digging for it.

Hayden: Maybe not, but they’re still nice to hear, or read.

Hailee: You looked good tonight, Monroe.

Hayden: Did I smell good, too?

“Goddamn it,” I mutter.

Hailee: Better than you do after a game.

Hayden: Oh, burn.

My lips twitch with a smile as I imagine him laughing.

Hayden: What are you doing?

I hesitate, although I’m not sure why. It’s not like I’m lying in bed thinking about him.

No, you’re lying on a lounger doing exactly that.

Hailee: Sitting on my balcony watching the stars.

Hayden: Nice. I can’t see the stars from my apartment. Wish I could.

Hailee: Better negotiate a pay raise when your contract is up, get yourself a view.

Hayden: I have more important things to do with my money than buy a fancy penthouse.

Hailee: Oh?

This time, his response isn’t as fast, and I start to worry that I’ve overstepped.