Page 39 of Temptation On Ice

“Can they open doors?”

“Yes, with some special modifications like ropes on doorknobs or handles on the doors. They are very good at assisting their people with all parts of their lives.”

“If they can open doors, do they run away?”

“No, they’re very well trained and know their job is with their people.”

And so on.

I catch Sebastian’s eye a few times as he observes from the back of the room, a mixture of relief and awe on his face when he’s not actively working to hide his expression.

Miss Julie thanks us and sends us on our way when it’s time for the kids’ lunch break, and I collect Juniper from Enzo.

“Thank you, Mr. Tucker! You saved the day and helped me keep my word,” he says, flinging himself into my arms when I squat down to say goodbye. I catch his little body and hug him back, feeling a little overwhelmed by my emotions, but damn, does it feel good. This little boy is so precious and has become one of my favorite humans in such a short time.

“Any time, Pup. You remember not to promise anything if it doesn't belong to you, right?” I ask, reminding him of the faux pas that got us here in the first place.

He giggles. “You called me Pup!”

I smile back as he hugs me again. “I did. You’re little like the puppies, and you love them. I thought it was a fitting nickname.”

“I like it. And I promise to remember,” he offers solemnly.

I ruffle his hair and hold my hand up for a high five, which he gives me before bending down to kiss Juniper and then petting Ivy.

I straighten and notice Sebastian next to me as Enzo runs off to join his classmates.

“He likes you.”

My traitorous heart hears way more in those three words than he means.

I nod. “I’m glad. He’s a good kid. I really like him, too.”

We walk out of the classroom in silence, checking out at the front desk and pushing through the glass doors into the parking lot.

“Let me take you to lunch for saving my ass today,” he offers, his strides matching mine as we walk across the asphalt.

I cut my eyes over to him. “I have the dogs.” I don’t remind him of Ivy’s service status and ability to go into any restaurant.

“I know a place with a patio that’s dog-friendly. Let me buy you lunch to say thank you. It’s the least I can do for taking you away from work, making you drive all the way into the city, and giving a free informative session for the school that I’m sure you hadn’t anticipated and could have been paid for if we’d arranged it properly.” His dark eyes are pleading when I look over.

My heart stutters at that look, and I know I’m going to give him anything he wants. Turns out my heart is much louder than my brain and my well-meaning friends.

Please don't hurt me.

“What’s a little more time away from the woods if I’m already here?” I capitulate on a sigh.

He smiles triumphantly, and my heart skips at the look. “I’d offer to drive, but I think your truck is better suited. I’ll send you the address if you promise to meet me there. Don’t pussy out, Country Boy.”

My eyes widen at his taunt and the wicked smile curving his pretty mouth. “Are you goading me, Sebastian?”

He shrugs. “Whatever it takes to get you to agree.”

“Fine. Lunch is on you. You better take me somewhere nice with all that hockey money, City Boy.”

He smiles wolfishly. “Only the best for you, of course.”

Seventeen