Page 44 of Turn Me On
I have acted on it.
And Icouldtell them. They’d both understand. Especially Declan. He’s married to the catcher for our rivals — the Cougars. But I don’t say a word even though the rest of what I said is true.
Maddox’s texts have become a favorite part of my day.
* * *
After the game, my phone buzzes with a message as I head into the hotel on South Beach. Weaving through crowds of the skimpily dressed and even more skimpily dressed, I glance at the screen, and a rush of warmth goes through me when I see his name.
Maddox:Whoever says first base is easy never did a split while fielding a hard throw.
A group of young guys in colorful Speedos rushes past me, heading to the beach just outside the lobby. Dance music plays from an outdoor club. But I’m too busy replying to care about the scene.
Zane:Some agents would lead with a compliment on my bat. You lead with a compliment on my glove.
Maddox:First, I’m not justsomeagent. Second, I didn’t think you’d need compliments on your bat.
I smile as I head for the stairwell, bounding up the steps as I reply.
Zane:Have you met me? I love bat compliments.
Maddox:Ah, if only I could give you the bat praise you truly want. But here we are. Your hitting was stellar, and your fielding was legendary. There. Are you satisfied?
Zane:Not in the least when it comes to you. But I’ll accept your praise for now. Also, thank you big time for the Hoffman tip!
Maddox:Glad it paid off. That was a helluva single. Oh hey, there’s your bat compliment.
Zane:Finally. Anyway, stop being so cagey. Give me the details of the meeting this morning.
Maddox:Yes, Zane, I was holding back. Keeping it all from you.
Zane:I know you were, man. You like to tease me.
Maddox:Is that what I do?
Zane:Yes. You tease me and toy with me and torture me.
Maddox:I sure sound fun.
Zane:The most fun. Trust me on that.
Our chemistry has me so riled up I don’t even feel bad about skirting the line of professionalism. When I hit the fourth floor, I push open the door and head down the hall and finally into my room, clutching my phone. I’m stoked to hear about his meeting, but I’m also excited to keep talking.
Maddox:Can I call you?
Zane:Anytime.
The second the door snicks shut, my phone rings. I frown as I answer. “What? No video call?”
A laugh comes from the man. “Did you want a video call?”
“From you? Hell yes.” I’m feeling feisty tonight. Maybe a little demanding. A highlights-reel-worthy game will do that to a man.
Maddox is quiet for a few seconds. “For real, Zane?” His question is both vulnerable and legit curious.
A video call is a risky step.
I floated the option to razz him. But now that FaceTiming is on the table, I crave it. The more I have of him, the more I want. That’s getting to be a problem, but I don’t want to find a solution tonight.