The Muse and the Fairy Tale (New Hampshire Bears #1) (12 page)

Chapter Seventeen

Meadow

Kyson didn’t stay the night, but I went to bed with a smile on my face. I knew he was still going through a lot, trying to get over Angela, and it would take time. I wasn’t completely sure what to expect when he’d showed up on my doorstep, but I was glad to see he looked well. Okay, hot. That body was hot. When he gave me a light kiss on my lips, I’d really just wanted to rip off his clothes, but my mature side took over, refraining me. However, I was beginning to wonder if my mature side was just a bitch keeping me from sex.

“Are you ready?”

The spinning instructor rudely interrupted my daydream of young, hot, Kyson. Harlow and Maxima thought this would be a great way to spend a Friday afternoon. It definitely wasn’t on my agenda, but I’d given my word I would try it.

At first, we started somewhat slow, and I thought it was no big deal, until the music cranked up and the instructor got louder. Oh the horror, as my legs burned. Sweat was dripping into my eyes, and I figured blindness would occur soon. Maxima told me the class was only thirty minutes. I was pretty sure she was lying and this was the never ending class. But, after what seemed to be ten hours, it was all over.

My legs were jelly, and I could barely walk without leaning up against everything and anyone who’d help me to the locker room. Of course, Harlow called me a
wimp
the entire way.

Once I showered and changed, I didn’t feel as bad. Actually, I felt good. Shocked me! As I was trying to fix my hair, Maxima was going on and on about mutual funds or something like it. The girl barley spoke, unless she was talking about her job or numbers.

I declined their offer to dinner. I needed my couch more than a salad. When I made it to my house, Puckhead was chasing something I couldn’t see around the house. I feared he was hunting a mouse, which I hated more than anything, but I didn’t see one. I chalked it up to him getting the catnip out of his new toy and the fact I was home.

I stretched out my couch, turning on the game. I was hoping I’d not missed any of the pre-game commentary, and thankfully I hadn’t. I listened as the reports gave out their latest analysis about the players and they were especially struck by Remington and Kyson. They’ve been dubbed the
dynamic duo
. I thought it sounded a tad cheesy, but then again, what did I know.

The camera kept flashing to them both warming up on the ice. Kyson’s green eyes were as bright as his smile. I wished I hadn’t sold my tickets for the game tonight, but I also knew I should be working. Needless to say, I wasn’t leaving the couch.

The kink in my neck woke me up bright and early. I couldn’t even remember who won the game. I slept through it and the whole night. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d slept so long. I knew I needed to work. I had a ton of stuff on my to-do list. My book was coming out soon and it wasn’t going to promote itself.

After I cleaned myself up and grabbed some coffee and a Danish. I plopped down and began my day. Emails, Twitter, Facebook posts, Facebook messenger, my website, Instagram, and almost eight hours later, my hands hurt from the typing, and I needed a break.

The knock on my front door came as I opened a bottle of water. Kyson stood on the other side as I opened the door. His small smirk and green eyes brought butterflies to my insides.

“Good evening,” I formally joked with him. “To what do I owe the pleasure, Mr. Wick?” I really needed to stop trying out a fake British accent.

Kyson laughed. “That was horrible, babe.” He walked in and pecked my lips.

“What are you doing here?”

“Oh, I’ve come to whisk you off on a playdate.” He winked.

I loved seeing the Kyson I first met. I couldn’t bear not seeing his smile or shiny eyes filled with glee.

“A playdate?”

“Yes. I want to build a snowman and you’re coming with me.”

“What?” He couldn’t be serious.

“Come on, Meadow. When was the last time you played in the snow?”

“I had to be ten or so.” I tried to think that far back, but really couldn’t remember. It was with my mother, but I quickly shut the memory down. I tried not to think about my parents.

“Then it’s time. Change into something warm, and let’s build a snowman.”

A part of me wanted to say I was already warm and toasty in my sweats, but my young inner child, whom I never let out and have fun, was jumping with joy.

“All right. Let me change.”

I slipped into jeans and threw on an extra pair of socks. I bundled myself up in my parka, scarf, knitted cap, and gloves. Kyson lead us out to my backyard. It wasn’t huge by any means, but big enough for a few rows of vegetables, and a small patio.

Kyson and I began to construct our snowman. There was a small lapse in my memory about how to make one, but Kyson was right there piling up snow in the middle of the yard.

The bending and stooping was killer on my legs and back, but the cold numbed most of the pain. We were both sniffling, our noses were red, and there were tears in our eyes. Once we thought we’d finished, we stepped back to check out our masterpiece.

I was the first to start giggling, before Kyson began to chuckle beside me. Our snowman looked as if he was the distant cousin of the leaning Tower of Pisa.

“Maybe he’s drunk?” Kyson tilted his head.

“Ha! I think it’s more like we’re bad at building.”

“I never said I was good at it,” he countered.

“Neither did I.” I threw a bit of snow left on my glove at him.

Kyson’s eyes narrowed. “Was that a snowball?” He dramatically paused and turned fully to me, still glaring. “Did you throw a snowball?”

“Maybe,” I challenged him.

His mouth formed a sexy ‘o’, and he shook his head. “Oh, Meadow, you’ve made a huge mistake.”

I bolted toward the back door, but Kyson was quicker. He wrapped his arm around my waist and picked me up.

“Not so fast, baby.”

I squealed with laughter. “Put me down, Kyson.”

“Okay.” Right then, he dropped me onto a snow pile.

When I looked up, he had an ear-to-ear grin. “Help me up.” I was still laughing, my entire body growing wetter and colder.

Kyson held out his hand, and I gripped it tight. I knew what I was going to do the instant our gloved hands touched. I pulled with all my might, and Kyson landed on top of me with a
humph
. Okay, it was not exactly as I planned it. The laughter was even louder now.

After a few seconds, our smiles faded and our body heat rose. There was a glint deep in his eyes; I’d seen it before. My body was numb, but the tingling was because of him.

I don’t know if I rose up or if he lowered his head, but it didn’t matter, because once our lips connected, all I knew was I needed him. We both moaned as our tongues slipped together. I’d missed this.

“Let’s move this inside.” Kyson leapt to his feet, bringing me with him. We both ran to the house as fast as we could in two feet of snow.

Once we were in my laundry room, right next to my back door, we knew we wouldn’t make it to the bedroom. Kyson shook his gloves off as I did mine, our lips glued together as we lowered ourselves to the floor. I was able to unbutton my jeans as we went. Kyson sat up on his haunches, tugged off one of my boots, and helped free one of my legs from my jeans and panties. At that point, I didn’t care my other leg was still covered, or my socks were on along with my parka.

Kyson opened his jeans and pushed them down enough for him to spring free. All of his glory was on hand, and it wanted only me.

I spread my legs, and he slammed into me. I gasped at the welcomed intrusion of his cock. The only sounds in my laundry room were our panting and the scraping of his leather jacket against my down parka.

“Baby,” Kyson moaned and pounded into me harder.

I knew this round was going to be quick, and miraculously, I was almost there. “Kyson.” I arched my back as the wave of sexual ecstasy washed over me.

He grunted again, and I felt him release inside me. “Oh, baby.”

The small endearment made me feel special. When other guys called me something of that nature, it felt forced, and I didn’t like it. I even asked one guy to stop calling me
love muffin
. It seemed strange.

His forehead was on mine as we tried to find air in the room. “I’ve missed you,” he said, exhaling. “I’m sorry; I won’t push you away again.”

His green eyes locked with mine, and I touched his cheek. “Ditto.”

Chapter Eighteen

Kyson

I threw my arms up in jubilation as the red lights went off and Remington jumped into my arms. He’d gotten his hat trick, and I’d landed my fourth assist of the night, putting me into the top three of the PHL and Remington into the top five for goals.

“Dynamitic Duo strikes again,” Keaton yelled over the crowd.

I didn’t care about the stupid nickname right now as we skated back to the bench for a round of high fives and congrats. My face hurt from my damn smile. Between how well I was playing, Meadow, and not hearing from Angela for the past week, my life was perfect.

When the final buzzer went off, we were as loud as the crowd. Five to zero and we were moving right up in points and standing in the PHL ranks. I could feel it in my bones; this would be our year. I knew it.

After I showered and dressed in my suit, Keaton and Remington were still bouncing all around me. If I didn’t know them so well, I’d think they were on speed. They’d been bugging me to go out to Central Ale House. They’ve been going almost every weekend and love it.

“I’m going to spend time with Meadow,” I told them as I head to the garage.

“What if I can convince her to come with us?” Keaton blocked my path. “Then will you come?”

“Sure.” I shrugged. I gave in because I was tired of arguing.

Keaton slapped my back and they followed me out the door. Kian and Meadow were standing at the end of my truck. I knew I’d never look her at her light purple parka the same again since we’d had sex in the laundry room. Up to that point, I’d never had sex with my clothes on, but I couldn’t have waited another second. It was perfect.

“Meadow.” I was greeted with her big blue eyes. “These two knuckleheads are Remington and Keaton. Guys, this is my girlfriend, Meadow.” It felt right calling her mine. She did belong in my life.

“Hi, guys.” She shook both their hands. “Great game tonight.”

“Thanks. Listen Meadow, why don’t you come out and celebrate with us?” Keaton rushed to ask her.

“Um…I don’t think we have plans.” She looked over at me. “I’m cool.”

Keaton jumped up. “Yes.”

Remington and I shook our heads.

“Am I missing something?” Meadow took a step away from Keaton.

“Kyson said if you said yes then he’d go with us,” Keaton explained. “He never goes out unless we hog tie him and drag his ass. He acts so old.”

“Shut up.” I shoved on his shoulder.

“My girls are over at Central Ale, if you want to go there?” Meadow suggested.

“That’s where we’re going.” Keaton leaned in toward her. “Now, Meadow, are they single? And will any of them sleep with me?”

Meadow blinked in shock for a moment and then looked at me. “Please, may I introduce him to Harlow?”

I laughed loudly because Meadow had told me many stories this past week and Harlow seemed like a perfect challenge for Keaton. I’d enjoy seeing their sparring.

“Let’s go,” Remington called out.

Kian quickly told me he wasn’t going with us, and I knew he was heading over to his girlfriend’s house. I kept ragging him to meet her, but he said it was too soon. I understood, but I still at least wanted to meet her. He hadn’t even told me her hair color.

Meadow and I mainly talked about the game on our way to Central Ale. My girl was proud of me, and it made me lift my chin higher knowing just how proud she was.

We all reached our destination at the same time, and Meadow told us Harlow had a table big enough for all of us. Keaton had a huge grin on his face.

“What are you so happy about?”

“Pussy.” He glanced at me as if I should have already known the answer.

“Oh God, he has to meet Harlow.” Meadow giggled as we walked in.

The tall blonde waved us over, and we followed Meadow to the large table.

“Ladies, let me introduce Keaton Jaco, Remington Rosin, and you know my boyfriend, Kyson Wick. Guys, this is Harlow Goldsmith, my dear friend and editor. And this sweet girl is Maxima Keck, banker extraordinaire.”

“Well, hello.” Keaton went straight for Harlow. “If you’re an editor then you know where the comma goes.”

Without missing a beat, Harlow said, “You obviously don’t know where to put an explanation point.” Harlow turned to me. “Who brought the pup?”

We all laughed.

“I’m house trained in all the right ways.” He winked at her.

Harlow looked almost disgusted. “Um…okay.” She patted the top of his head. “Good boy.”

I thought Remington and I were going to split our sides open from laughing. This was the greatest thing to witness.

“I bet I could teach you how good I am,” Keaton countered, not giving up.

Harlow looked at him as if he’d grown a third eye. “Seriously, who the fuck brought you?”

“I did,” I answered. “He is house trained.” I reaffirmed, trying to add fuel to the fire.

“Hardy, har, har.” Keaton rolled his eyes.

“I say we get some drinks.” Meadow waved over the waitress. She and the girls ordered a bottle of wine, and the guys and I ordered a couple pitcher of beers.

The conversation moved away from Keaton and Harlow’s antics to hockey. Maxima, after her second glass of wine, seemed more talkative and a fan of the Bears too.

There were a few fans at the Central Ale, and I took pictures and signed autographs on napkins. Everyone seemed very pleased with our season thus far and I couldn’t agree more.

After we finished our drinks and food, I was ready to be alone with Meadow. My arm had been around her all night, her hand on my thigh.

“All right guys and gals, I think we’re done.” Meadow had read my mind, and she announced we were leaving.

I tossed money on the table to cover our part of the bill and stood up, reaching for my girlfriend.

“Harlow, would you like to go home with me?” Keaton wagged one eyebrow at her.

“Sweetheart, I have a pair of handcuffs attached to my bed older than you.” She narrowed her eyes to him.

“Vintage? Nice.” He blew her a kiss.

Harlow turned to me. “Seriously, don’t bring him out anymore.”

We all laughed, and I tugged on Meadow toward the door. Those two were the best entertainment of the night, but I wanted some alone time before I left tomorrow. I was going to be gone for almost two weeks, and I hated it. Not about playing hockey, just being away from Meadow.

Even though I’d told her we were moving fast, I knew deep down we weren’t because the more time I spent with her, the more I felt myself falling for her. I was glad I hadn’t told her I saw Angela; it would have ruined everything.
I think.
Besides, I’ve not heard from Angela, and I was glad she had moved on too.

When we pulled into her driveway, I put my truck in park and gripped her face, pulling her to me. I kissed her with every emotion I had, and it still wasn’t enough. I wanted more. More of her.

“Kyson, if we don’t stop, my neighbors are going to see more of me than they’d like.” She tried to push me away, but I began kissing down her neck.

“Would it be a bad thing?” I teased her.

She giggled, but didn’t tell me to stop. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d had sex in a vehicle. Hell, had I ever? I didn’t think so.

“Baby, have you had sex in a truck before?” I nipped her earlobe.

“A car. A minivan. A jeep. Nope, never a truck.” She panted, and I moved my gloved hand in between her legs and pushed against her, being rewarded with a satisfied moan.

“Want to add it to the list?” I pulled back a bit.

Meadow checked out our surroundings. “I think it’s impossible.”

I smirked and ready to accept the challenge. I reached under the seat and pulled it so it would release and slide all the way back. Then I yanked on the lever to lay it flat. Meadow was laughing, and it was music to my ears.

It took me a minute to get myself across to her side, but I made it, and she had already removed her jeans. I tugged my pants below my hips; I was already hard and yearned to bury myself inside her. It was the only place I wanted to be.

The windows were fogged over as we found a position comfortable for us both. Our connection made me grunt. She felt amazing around me, always wet and tight, as if she was made for only me. Because of our small surroundings, I was so close to her face. I could kiss her more. Her lips and tongue were like no other I’ve ever had the pleasure of kissing. They were soft and always tasted like cherries.

“Baby,” I moaned, feeling the buildup in my cock.

“Kyson, I’m coming.”

She clenched, saying my name repeatedly, which only made me double my efforts. It was difficult to get the momentum I needed, but I was going to do it as she found her release. It took about five seconds later for me to follow.

Neither of us were cold anymore and the windows were completely covered from the steam of our breaths.

“Well, now I have some new material for my next book.”

I chuckled at her, giving her a chaste kiss. “I’m sure we can come up with a lot more together.”

Our first week away was filled with phone sex, texting, sexting, and a lot of talking. Meadow really opened up to me. She spoke a lot of her childhood. The pride in her voice as she told me stories of her father were moving. It was different with her mother. Sure, she’d loved her, but I had a feeling there was more dark days with her than bright ones.

I relived memories of Kian’s and my childhood. Kian, the world’s greatest brother, was always there. He made sure I made it to all my practices, games, and that all my schoolwork was done. Mom worked constantly, and the few times she did make it to my games were the most memorable.

It still pained me to talk of her death. Even after six years, I teared up recalling Kian and I holding her hands as she took her last breath. I watched a vibrant, hard-working woman literally fade in front of my very own eyes. It was something I wished on no one.

The start of our second week on the road was a bit more dramatic. I was sitting pretty at the number two spot in overall assists in the league, causing more cameras and microphones were in my face during post games. Even though I welcomed the attention, a bit, I would still rush around the locker room to get out of there to talk to Meadow. Hell, I’ve spoken more to her than Kian.

But I was dumbstruck when a text message from Angela made its way to my phone.

I called off the wedding. You’re the one I want.

Six months ago, I wanted to hear those words, but at this very moment, they meant nothing to me.

I hope you find happiness, but it won’t be with me. I’m taken and found someone who respects me.

Do you love each other?

I pondered her words for a few seconds. Love? I knew Meadow wanted a fairy tale Prince Charming, but was I enough for her? My emotions for Meadow were true, and I didn’t even bat an eye at anyone, but her. She was the first one I thought of when I woke up and the last person I spoke to before I went to sleep.

I quickly dialed her number as I stood near the bus as the team loaded on.

“Great game, Kyson.”

“Would you ever cheat on me?” I blurted without as much as a hello.

“What?”

“Would you ever cheat on me?” I repeated.

“No. I’m very monogamous.”

“Do you see this going long-term?”

“Kyson, why are you asking me this?”

“Am I your fairy tale?”

There was a long pause, and Coach Long yelled for me.

“Meadow, please.” I begged to hear the words from her.

“Yes. Yes, I think you could be my fairy tale.”

“Are you falling for me?” I held my breath.

“Yes.” She didn’t even have to think about it. She answered me right away. “Are you?”

“I’m already there, Meadow. I’ll have to call you later. Coach is about to chew my ass off if I don’t get on this bus.”

“Okay. Call me soon.”

“I will. Promise.”

Once I was on the bus, I sent Angela a text as fast as I could type.