Chapter 26

CHAPTER

TWENTY-SIX

ALEXANDER

My team is headed to the World Series. Regardless of talent, hard work, and sheer determination, you still need a heavy dose of luck to make it to this point. And this year must be my lucky year. The stadium is alive with celebration, everyone on their feet cheering for the Reapers. The team is celebrating at home plate. It’s a sight to see, and I’ve never been more proud or conflicted. I know I need to go to the clubhouse and celebrate with my team, but I look over at Dani, the smile on her face, those curls begging me to run my fingers through them, and I don’t want to leave this spot.

For years, my life has been the Reapers. But now? For the first time, I have someone competing for my time and attention, and I’m not mad about it. I go to the bar where Dani and Jenny are taking it all in.

“Hey,” she says shyly. Where did my sassy girl go? Did I spook her? I told her I was coming for her. Now I’m questioning my approach .

“Sunshine,” I say, somewhat disapproving. I don’t like her retreating from me.

“I’m thrilled for you and the team. I’m sure you have some celebrating to do, so I’ll leave you to it.” She leans in for a hug, thinking this is goodbye. Yeah, not happening.

I let her hug me, but then I don’t let go, keeping my arm around her waist.

“You aren’t going anywhere.” I look at Jenny for backup. She’s smiling like the cat that ate the canary. “Come on. We’re all headed to the clubhouse. I’m sure Luis would love to see Jenny, and I promised you behind-the-scenes all-access. That starts now.”

She looks unsure. “Unless you don’t want to.” I put my knuckle under her chin to make her look at me. “I’ll never make you do something you don’t want. Ever. If you’re uncomfortable, say the word, and I’ll move heaven and earth to fix it. Understand? You call the shots. Always. Okay?”

I say those words like an oath. I mean every word.

“Well, as long as I’m not a distraction.”

“Sunshine, I can assure you, you are most definitely a distraction. A very, very pleasant distraction. I don’t want our time to end, but I have obligations. You can either come with me, or someone will escort you home. Always your call.” I’m already planning for both scenarios.

“I don’t want this to end either, but I want you to celebrate and enjoy the moment with your team.” Her smile lights up the room.

“Let’s enjoy the moment together,” I whisper as I lean down and capture her lips with mine.

When we catch our breath, I notice the suite has cleared, except for Trevor. “I drew the short straw to wrangle you to the clubhouse.” He looks at Dani and winks. “Go ahead, Xander. Take the stairs. Dani and I will be right behind you. Go have your moment with your team. ”

I’m conflicted. “You okay? He’s harmless, mostly. I promise.”

She giggles as she looks at Trevor with his cast and blinged out scooter. “I think I can take him.”

The Reapers are going to the World Series. Dani is waiting for me. Life can’t get any better than this.