Page 35 of Rookie Attraction

“And Silas?”

“There’s been some buzz, so we’re still hoping. Maybe he’ll get called to a training camp next year like Finn, fingers crossed. But Si also talked about coaching as another possibility. I’ll let you know as soon as we know.”

“That’s going to be challenging for you guys.”

“We’ve got a plan. I’m waiting to see if he gets an offer, and I’ll make my decision based on that. As long as we’re on the same coast, we’re good.”

I couldn’t imagine my life with a partner at this point, never mind balancing two careers that required so much travel.

“I guess I’m not the only one dealing with major life changes.”

And my instinct told me the biggest change had yet to come.

Chapter Eight

FINN

THE NEXT DAY

I wake up to bright sunshine spilling into my bedroom and a champagne hangover that only java and excess carbs can cure. This being New York, with coffee shops and bakeries on every block, I decide to head out to grab my sugar fix instead of ordering in. After all, I’m an athlete; I need fresh air and a walk to go with my calories.

After downing a full glass of water and grabbing a quick shower, I throw on a pair of worn jeans, a Rush sweatshirt, and a light jacket. I’m out the door and down to the lobby in no time, but the place is deserted. Stepping outside, the crisp fall air fills my lungs and helps to clear my head.

I spend the first ten minutes wandering the Hudson Yards neighborhood that I now call home and pause only when I get a whiff of baked goods. Amazing smells lead me around the corner to a lineup outside You Knead It, a combination café and bakery. Fifteen minutes later, I finally see what all the waiting was about. The café’s packed, and the scent of roasted beans and pastry tempts me to order the entire menu. On impulse, I order two coffees and decide I’ll drop one off for Sel. I get one black coffee because I don’t know how he likes it, and one latte for me, then I select two chocolate croissants, four everything bagels—two with fried eggs and cheddar, two with scallion cream cheese—and a couple of apple fritters.

Back home and loaded up with a tray of coffees and a large bag of breakfast, I press the button for the tenth floor. I’m sober this time and it’s not a mistake. If Sel’s busy, I’ll drop off the food and wish him a good day. If he’s not, maybe we could eat and review the game. I’m cool either way.

Cool. Of course.

That’s why I pace for a good five minutes in the hallway outside his door before I finally step up and knock on it. Why am I so jittery? I haven’t even had caffeine yet…

The door swings open and Sel greets me in a navy towel wrapped tightly around his hips. I’m not expecting to see him half naked, and for some reason I’m staring, my mouth suddenly dry. Come on, Finn, you’re around naked guys all the time in the locker room. Sel’s thick hair is mussed, and his skin’s pink, like he’s just had a workout or something.

“Hey, Finn.”

My cheeks heat. “Is this a bad time?”

“Uh, no, just give me a minute to get changed.” Sel steps back. “Come on in.”

Sel motions for me to enter but I stop short when I see a man in his kitchen. The blond stranger is dressed casually, holding a mug in one hand, offering me a slow smile.

Ah shit. Or something.

My stomach starts to churn when I realize what I’ve interrupted. Fuck, could my timing be any worse?

“Sorry, I didn’t… I didn’t realize you had company,” I mumble. “I can go.”

The stranger puts his mug on the counter and heads into the living room.

“It’s fine,” Sel assures me as he walks past, smelling like mint and coconut. “My massage is done.”

“Massage?”

“Yeah, it’s a must the day after a hard game. I swear by them.”

So, not personal, but therapeutic. I’m oddly relieved even though I’m not sure why. The stranger—the massage therapist—walks back through the kitchen, only this time he’s hauling a foldable table.

“Finn, this is Cody Brooks, he’s one of the RMTs at the Rush. Highly recommend.” Sel smiles and points over his shoulder. “I’m gonna run back and change real quick.”