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“Oh.” I blink, looking at the display of jerseys. I don’t know who any of these players are, apart from Damien. Would it be weird to wear my stepbrother’s jersey? Just to be sure, I decide to buy another number. “I’ll take number two, Tucker, please. Size small, thanks.”

She nods and grabs my size. I also get a hat and spring for a pink and teal puck because it’s cute as hell.

With my bags in one hand and food in the other, I trek into the arena to find my seat.

When I make it to the bleachers, the whole atmosphere changes. The air has a chill, and the buzz of the fans around me has me smiling.

The seats Elliot gave me are not just good, they’re great. I’m surprised to be seated right behind the players bench.

They’re out on the ice right now, warming up. My stomach flutters as my attention darts to the net and a small smile finds my lips when I see him.

This is a side I’ve never seen of Damien. He’s out there being... silly? He’s laughing and joking around with another player, number two, the player's jersey I’m wearing.

Damien starts to stretch after his teammate skates off.

As he gets down and starts flexing his hips, I feel my cheeks start to flame.

Dear god, if I start to perfume right now, I will die of embarrassment.

I force myself to look away, but it’s not easy. The man is so damn attractive, it’s not fair. And the way he was moving? Why do I wish I was under him?!

Bad, Addie. Bad, bad, bad for thinking of your brother this way.

Stepbrother. He’s not related to you.

Even so, having a crush on him again wouldn’t be healthy. I’m already losing sleep over my feelings for my online friends. I shouldn’t add another man I can’t have to the list.

Just because I can’t havethem, doesn’t mean I’m going to settle for the pack my mom is forcing on me.

The thought has my good mood slipping away.

No. I’m not going to let her ruin my night.

The guys are called off the ice, and they all make their way to the players’ bench. Elliot talks to them as they all huddle together.

When he’s done, jersey number two looks around with a big grin on his face like he’s thrilled to be here.

His eyes land on me and for some reason the grin grows. He steps up to the glass and taps on it. “Hey there, pretty lady!” He shouts loud enough for me to hear him.

I roll my lips together, trying not to laugh. He’s cute. Dark wavy hair, piercing blue eyes. Honestly, he’s my type.

“Nice jersey you got there. Your taste in players is top notch. How about we meet up after and you give me the chance to know what you taste like?”

My jaw drops and I can’t help but burst into laughter. Is this guy for real?

Elliot scowls at his player, then looks up at me. His eyes darken when he sees who he’s talking to and slaps the guy upside the head. “Stay the hell away from my stepdaughter,” He growls.

That gets Damien’s attention. His head snaps around, eyes finding mine. He looks surprised for a moment, then his attention drops to the number on my jersey.

Is that anger I see in his eyes? He glares at player number two.

Number two doesn’t seem to notice the death glare, nor does he seem to care. Instead, he just grins at Damien. “Damn, D-man. You didn’t tell me you had a sister. And one as hot as her? You’re holding out on me.”

“Stay the fuck away from her,” Damien growls. It shouldn’t, but the sound of his low, rumbling growl sends a shiver down my spine. I have to clamp my thighs together and pray my scent blocking panties are working.

“Oh, come on,” Number two pouts. “Where’s the fun in that?”

“Go near my stepdaughter, Dean, and I’ll end your career," Elloit warns.