 
### Looking for You

An Oh Captain, My Captain Novel

by Lindsay Paige and Mary Smith

### Looking for You

Copyright 2014 by Lindsay Paige and Mary Smith

Smashwords Edition

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This book is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidental. Any actual places, products, or events mentioned are used in a purely fictitious manner.

Cover Designed by: Bailey Ardisone

Edited by: K² Editing

ISBN: 9781310877537

Table of Contents

Chapter One: Hudson

Chapter Two: Ellie

Chapter Three: Hudson

Chapter Four: Ellie

Chapter Five: Hudson

Chapter Six: Ellie

Chapter Seven: Hudson

Chapter Eight: Ellie

Chapter Nine: Hudson

Chapter Ten: Ellie

Chapter Eleven: Hudson

Chapter Twelve: Ellie

Chapter Thirteen: Hudson

Chapter Fourteen: Ellie

Chapter Fifteen: Hudson

Chapter Sixteen: Ellie

Chapter Seventeen: Hudson

Chapter Eighteen: Ellie

Chapter Nineteen: Hudson

Chapter Twenty: Ellie

Chapter Twenty-One: Hudson

Chapter Twenty-Two: Ellie

Chapter Twenty-Three: Hudson

Acknowledgements

About the Authors

Coming Soon

Chapter One

Hudson

I've been weary of women for a while now, and this girl supports my reasoning. We've been seeing each other for about a month, and I just called it quits. There are a lot of problems with her, like the fact that she has no boundaries whatsoever, and she's asked to "borrow" money already. Okay, maybe she would pay me back, but I doubt it. Not to mention the fact that she insists on telling everyone about the fact that she's dating an NHL player. A captain to be precise.

She wasn't happy, which was clear by her yelling as I left her place. I don't really care. With a sigh, I drive across town to one of my favorite bars. Is it really too much to ask for a girl who doesn't want me for my money, stardom, or anything related to being the captain of the Portland Vikings? I want a relationship with a girl who dates me for all the right reasons, so I can share this crazy life of mine with someone. I'm sick of all this other shit. I'm getting too old for it.

Being twenty-seven, still single, and having to hear my mother talk about grandchildren every time I talk to her, is getting to me. My older brother has two kids already, but my mom wants more grandkids. There's not much I can do though. Not until I find the right girl. At this rate, that'll never happen. Too often, I'm seen as nothing more than a hockey player. There's more to me than that. Eventually, I'm sure I'll find who I'm looking for.

"Where's your woman?" Jim, the bartender, asks with a slight smile. He knows me well, and I consider him one of my friends.

"Gone. Are you going to fix my drink or not?" I hide my grin when he laughs.

He gets to work on my rum and coke. Earlier today, since I had a free night, I made plans to meet my baby sister, Whitney. She goes to school in Seattle and is coming down for the weekend. She was supposed to be here hours ago, but got caught up in traffic. Whitney is the youngest of my mother's three children with me in the middle and my brother, Ethan, at thirty. Ethan is married with two kids, living in Orlando. I don't see him a lot, but the three of us are really close.

There's a tap on my shoulder and when I turn around, I see my sister wearing a big grin. She has the family traits of brown hair and brown eyes. Standing, I pull her to me in a bear hug.

"It's about time you got here! How bad was traffic?" I ask, releasing her.

She sits on the barstool next to mine and says, "It was terrible. Better be glad I love you enough to drive in that for you."

I chuckle. "How's school?"

Whitney groans. "I'm sick of it. There should be more partying and less studying, but you know little, ol' Whit. I'm doing more studying than partying."

My sister wishes she was the bad apple of the bunch, but she's far too responsible. "You'll be done soon enough."

She nods before changing the subject. "Are you ready for your game tomorrow? How did the breakup go?"

"She was angry. I blow things out of proportion apparently." I shake my head at the thought. "Anyway, I'm ready as always."

"You are the most level headed person I know, Hudson. Don't let a bunch of rotten girls get to ya. Eventually, the odds will have to be in your favor and you'll get the girl you're looking for. I, on the other hand, have met my match."

Without meaning to, I narrow my eyes at her. "What are you talking about?" Am I the overprotective older brother? Yes, I certainly am. Sometimes I don't like hearing my baby sister go on and on about boys, but if I get to complain to her about girls, it's only fair she can do the same.

Whitney smiles like she has a secret she's dying to tell. "His name is Drew and he's in one of my classes. We've been study buddies for three weeks now."

"So what's the problem?"

"He hasn't asked me out yet."

"You ask him." Her eyes get so large. I'm surprised they didn't pop out of her eye sockets. Before she can object, I add, "I know that's not something I would usually say, but what the hell? It couldn't hurt."

"I'll think about," she says after a moment. "Have you talked to Mom and Dad or Ethan?"

"I talked to Ethan this morning and talked to Mom and Dad yesterday." The bar is starting to get crowded and busy, so we leave for my place.

We watch whatever movie is showing on TV and eat a large bowl of popcorn drizzled with chocolate syrup, just like when we were younger. After the movie, I turn on my laptop and we FaceTime with Ethan.

"Baby number three should be here in roughly seven months," he says with a smile before we can even say hello.

Whit squeals and congratulates him.

"Damn, didn't she just have one?" Whit hits me on the arm and Ethan laughs. "Seriously. You're like a baby-making machine. And you know Mom is going to really start pushing for me to settle down. Every time you have a kid, she doubles the pressure."

"Stop being a wimp, Hudson. You're a hockey player, act all tough and stuff."

The conversation steers back to the pregnancy when his wife appears on screen and starts talking to Whit. An hour later, I shut down my computer, and we go to our respective rooms to get some shut eye.

~ ~ ~

One of my favorite things about playing hockey is my teammates and the atmosphere in the locker room. It's not something that everyone sees all the time. I think that bit of privacy adds to why I like it. We're a family, close enough to play together, but not close enough to be heartbroken when one of us gets traded to another team. The thoughts are pushed aside as I skate onto the ice and the roar of the crowd drowns everything else out.

When I prepare for the faceoff, crouching just a little, focusing on winning this task, the world is still there. My eyes follow the puck as it drops and the world falls away. It's the other guy and me battling for the puck with me coming away as the winner this time. Hockey is a fast-paced game, even from the bench between line changes. We really want a win tonight, especially with the last two being losses.

A grin forms when one of their men is sent to the penalty box in the third with the score tied at 2-2. We have an excellent power play record so far this season. The play starts. We lose the faceoff and after struggling along the boards to regain possession, I manage to get the puck. I pass it to one of my boys and after a few more passes, it makes it back to me. A guy tries to put his stick in my way, but I crash the net and score!

3-2, baby! With three minutes to go, we dominate to protect our lead until the buzzer sounds. And that's precisely what we do.

Afterwards, a bunch of the guys want to go out, and I know that Whit will want to catch up with some of them, so I agree to go. She meets me at the players' entrance, and we ride over. We get a large round booth in the corner, and Jim sends over our drinks. Whitney sits next to me with the rest of the guys on either side of us. A couple of the rookies gather at the bar instead of sitting with us. They are the wilder bunch anyway, so I'll keep an eye out on them to make sure they stay out of trouble.

"How is little Whitney King doing?" Gerald, one of my defensemen asks from next to my sister.

"Pretty good. I had to come see my favorite men." She bumps his shoulder. "And Hudson, of course."

Gerald laughs and another one of the guys asks her a question. My sister fits right in with us. A couple of them, like Gerald, see her as one of their little sisters too. One thing is for sure, no one will ever mess with her with all of us around.

Slowly, my adrenaline from the win fades as the night progresses. I like celebrating a win with the team and even with Whitney, especially when we make a bet against the rookies. Whitney has no problem playing the innocent girl.

"Hudson, show me how to do this one more time," she says, looking at the dart like it's a foreign object. She's already missed two "practice" shots.

I silence my laugh as the rookies look at each other with a grin. They know I'm only okay at darts, but they have no idea how good Whitney really is. One hundred dollars is on the table, and they are planning to take it home because they don't think she can hit the bulls-eye. They are about to get hustled.

"Alright, Whit. Don't overdo it," I tell her quietly.

She nods. Once I've stepped back, she gracefully throws the dart, hitting the bulls-eye. The pair of newbies exchange glances. Whitney throws her second, landing just outside the bulls-eye. When one of the guys opens his mouth to say something, I raise my hand to stop him. She throws her last one, making all three bunched close together.

"That was fucking bullshit," one of them finally says.

I laugh as Whitney shrugs. "I'm just a girl, boys. If you don't like it, deal with Hudson. It was his idea. However, this," she grabs the money and stuffs it in her pocket, "is still mine. Thanks for buying my next pair of shoes."

She walks away, and all I say before following her is, "Now you know better than to make bets."

It's getting late, so Whitney suggests we head home. She wants to leave early in the morning because she's hoping to meet with that guy, Drew, for a study session before their test Monday. On our way out, a chick stops me.

"Hey, aren't you Hudson King?"

Not again. Being recognized isn't something I'm fond of right now. Maybe I should just stop confirming it.

"No, but I get that a lot," I answer before leaving her behind.

Chapter Two

Ellie

I'm in the big city of Portland, Oregon. My boss sent me to meet with some doctors who are looking for a contract with us. The problem is I'm shaking so bad, I don't think that I can do it. Yes, I can. I give myself a mental pep talk, in hopes that I can get myself out of this car.

I've worked for this medical supply company ever since I moved to Washington, which is almost a year. Wow, has it been almost a year, I think to myself.

I grew up in a small town in Idaho and was raised by my aunt, who died almost two years ago. After I settled up her affairs, I knew that I needed a fresh start. So, I applied for jobs in Washington and received an offer. Now, I live in a small town in Washington, right in between Seattle and Portland. However, I spend more time in my car than I do in either of the cities.

This is my first time in Portland. Actually, this is my first time that I will be conducting a meeting on my own. My boss, Jeffrey, is usually with me, but he's on vacation. He gave me the pep talk before he left, which means he yelled at me loudly not to screw it up. He's never been a calm man, but I know that, deep down, he has to be a good guy. I think anyway. Usually, he's telling me to talk louder and stop being so quiet.

I know that I'm shy, but I need to prove myself to Jeffrey and this company. I count to ten, open my car door, and head into the building.

Forty-five minutes and one mild panic attack later, the contracts are signed. I did it on my own. That's a huge accomplishment that I can mark off my list, and I'm only twenty-four. I know that doesn't seem to be a big deal to some, but to me, it is. I feel like celebrating. I have no clue where to go, but I want to toast my accomplishment.

The first person that I call is my dear friend, Lacey. She works for a pharmaceutical company, and we met at seminar when I first started with my company.

"I didn't doubt you for one moment," she said.

"Well, I sure doubted myself."

"You're so silly. Hey listen, are you going home tonight? We could celebrate." Lacey lives closer to Seattle, but we try to meet for drinks and dinner as often as we can.

"No, it's getting late, and I don't want to drive all that way in the dark. I'm just going to grab a hotel room and head back in the morning."

"We'll celebrate this weekend, then. But right now you need to go have yourself a big 'ole drink, meet a hot guy, and get laid."

"Oh my God." Even though she can't see me, I blush at her comment. Lacey has no trouble getting guys. Her long legs, olive skin, and deep green eyes, make men just fall at her feet. On the other hand, I was barely 5'4" and have skin the color of a ghost. My hair is mousy brown, and is more frizz than wavy. I think my only good feature is my golden brown eyes.

Lacey just laughs as I tell her that I'm hanging up on her, which I did. I jump on Google to try to find a nearby hotel. I put the address into my GPS and head off.

After I purchase the room and settle in, I change out of my business clothes. I'm so thankful that I packed a bag, just in case. I always try to be prepared as much as possible, not that it always works, but you never know when you might need something. I put on a pair of jeans, with a white button down shirt. I slip on my black jacket and a pair of black heels. I'll do anything to make myself look taller. I have the coordination of a drunk clown on a unicycle. Therefore, my heels aren't that high.

I go down to the hotel lobby and ask the clerk if there is a bar and grill nearby.

"Oh yes," she coos. "There is one about two blocks up, called Jim's. It's a favorite local hangout for everyone."

"Thank you," I say, before heading out.

I walk down towards the bar and grill, enjoying the fresh air. I've always loved being outdoors. Running was my favorite. That's one reason why I picked Washington. There is nothing like running a trail in the woods to clear your head.

I step into the bar and see that there aren't too many people. I'm surprised considering that it's happy hour. I sit at the corner of the bar when the bartender, a few years older than me, walks over.

"What can I get ya, sweetheart?"

"Um, a glass of white wine please?"

"Are you sure? Because you don't sound sure."

I smile. "Yes, I'm sure."

"Then I need to see your ID."

I reach into my purse and pull it out of my wallet for him.

"Good grief, Jim. What's up with all the carding you're doing?" A guy a seat down from me asks.

"Mind your business. I'm trying to flirt with this pretty lady."

I feel my face flush, as he hands back my ID. I just want to celebrate my big day and not have any other issues.

"You're married, dumbass." The guy next to me laughs.

"Don't mind him," Jim says to me. "I'll get your drink. Need anything to eat?"

I nod, and he hands me a menu.

"Obviously, you're not from around here." The guy next to me says.

"What makes you say that?" I'm puzzled on how he knows that.

"Because you're at Jim's, and everyone knows that when you come here, you get the bacon cheeseburger with onion rings."

"Thanks for the tip." I smile politely at him. It's the first time I really look at the guy. Even though he's sitting down, I can tell that he isn't extremely tall, although his thighs and arms are very muscular. His brown hair is a little bit shaggy, and he has a slight scruff on his face. I don't see his eyes, but he's nice looking.

"No problem, I figure that since you're not from here you should at least know what is good. What brings you to Portland anyway?"

"I had a business meeting."

"Really? What do you do?" My aunt always said that you should be careful about how much information you give a man when you meet him for the first time.

He finally faces me, when I don't answer him right away. I can see his deep chocolate, brown eyes. They look kind. I study the features of his face and see just how handsome he is.

"Um, I work for a medical supply company. I'm a sales rep for them."

"Sounds glamorous," he smirks at me.

"Every girl's dream of bedpans and oxygen tanks," I mumble.

He chuckles at my joke. Am I flirting? Lacey would be so proud if I am. I'm going to ask what he does for a living, but Jim comes back, asking if I'm ready to order. I order the bacon cheeseburger with onion rings. I see the guy next to me smile.

"Hudson?" Jim asks the guy next to me.

"Yeah, why not? I'll have the same thing."

Jim nods to us both before walking away. I sip on my wine. The burn of the alcohol helps calm me from all the excitement from today.

"I'm Hudson, by the way. I'm sure you already knew that." His face looks a little sad when he says that.

"Why would I know your name?" I thought for moment and remember that Jim just said his name. "Oh, because he said it." I point to Jim, who is on the other side of the bar now. "I guess I should have picked up on it. I'm Ellie." I smile as I stick my hand out to him.

I can't read the expression on his face. It almost looks like shock. The corners of his mouth turn up, and he shakes my hand. His hands are rough and firm.

"It's very nice to meet you, Ellie." When he lets my hand go, he slowly trails his fingers along my palm. It sends a shiver through me.

"So, Ellie, are you married? Boyfriend? Overprotective dog?" Hudson grins, sipping the drink that is in front of him.

"No. No. No." I giggle as I answer him back, pushing my hair behind my ears. Holy shit, I'm flirting.

"I'm surprised. I figured that you were tied down."

I shake my head and sip my drink. I'm trying to get the 'liquid' courage to ask him if he is married.

"Are you?" I ask trying to sound indifferent about it.

"No, I'm way too busy with work."

"Oh, what do you do?"

"Right now he is working with a bunch of uncoordinated monkeys," Jim said as he sat our plates in front with us.

"You work for the circus?" I ask as both men bust out laughing.

"No, he means the people I work with are like uncoordinated monkeys." Hudson shakes his head. I feel my face redden with embarrassment. Jim is still laughing as he walks away.

"I guess I know how to embarrass myself," I mumble.

"Actually you're not that far off, but it was cute what you said."

I give him a small smile, before looking at my plate. The bacon cheeseburger on it is massive. Not to mention the onion rings are piled high next to it.

"Wow, that's a lot of meat," I think out loud.

"What's wrong? You can't handle that much meat?" Hudson questions.

I slightly gasp at his comment. He instantly begins to shake his head.

"Sorry, I work with a bunch of guys, so I forget my manners sometimes."

"No, it's me," I say hanging my head. "My friend, Lacey, is always teasing me because I blush at the littlest thing."

"It's cute," he leans in a little and whispers. My only thought is how amazing he smells. He smells like fresh rain, and it makes my heart skip a beat.

I ignore his comment and start to pick at my onion rings. I look around and see more people starting to shuffle in. Some of them seem to be staring at me, and I wonder if something is on my face.

Jim comes back and refills my drink and goes to hand me the bill.

"I've got it," Hudson says.

"Um, no it's fine. Thanks anyway." I try to reach for the bill, but he's quicker.

"Consider it a thank you."

"For what?"

He doesn't reply, he only smiles at me, and hands Jim a credit card. I quickly down my drink. I try to add everything up in my head that happened while I was there: he talked to me, asked personal questions, and bought my dinner. Yep, I bet he wants sex. That's not going to happen.

I quickly thank him for dinner, grab my purse, and practically run for the door. Cute or not, there's no way that I'm going to let him think I'm easy. I'm about a block away from the bar, when I hear him yell my name. I quickly dig my hand into my side pocket of my purse, where I hide my pepper spray.

I turn to face him as he jogs closer to me. I realize that he isn't much taller than I am, but much cuter than I initially thought in the bar.

"You can take your hand off the pepper spray can. I promise I'm not going to hurt you," he says as he comes within a foot of me.

"How did you know that?" I don't release it, just in case.

"I have a baby sister. I tell her to never leave her apartment without it," he chuckles.

I can feel my face flush, but I'm not going to let go, yet.

"I want to give you this." He hands me a napkin.

I inspect the napkin and it has his name and phone number on it.

I hand it back to him. "I don't live here so it's pointless."

Shock is all over his face. "I don't think a girl has ever handed my number back to me." He pauses for a few seconds. "But you said that you work for a medical supply company, and I'm going to assume that you will be coming around more. Plus," he steps closer to me, "there is no harm in talking on the phone or texting a friend."

I do want his number. Plus, there isn't any harm in having a connection in Portland. I nod, holding onto the napkin.

"Text me later, so I'll have your number." Before I can react, he leans in and kisses my cheek. He pulls back, giving me a smile, and heads back to the bar.

Chapter Three

Hudson

I almost can't believe it. A girl, a very beautiful girl, doesn't know who I am. She seemed nervous, but her blush was cute. After she left and I realized that she only knows me as the Hudson from the bar, I had to go after her. I laugh to myself knowing that she was about to pepper spray me. It wouldn't have been funny if she had, but still.

When I walk back into the bar with a smile on my face, Jim asks, "Why are you grinning like a fool?"

My answer is a simple shake of my head. Now, I have to wait and see if she'll text me. Someone slaps me on the shoulder before sitting down in the next seat over.

"Hudson, my man, who would have thought I would find you here?" Gerald says as he sits next to me.

"Where else would he be? This is the best place in town," Jim brags.

"Exactly," I confirm. "Plus, we're about to leave for a few days, so I had to get my bacon cheeseburger fix."

"I have never in my life seen someone love cheeseburgers like you do." Gerald shakes his head.

I shrug instead of replying. Cheeseburgers are to me what cookies and cakes are to people with a sweet tooth. If possible, when we go on our road trips, I always find a burger joint to try. So far, my favorite place is a little diner in Dallas. Anyway, we've got two away games this week and I probably need to head home to get some rest.

Standing, I slap Gerald hard on the shoulder and smile at him. "Stay out of trouble."

He laughs. "We'll see."

The first thing I do when I get home is take a shower. I feel better afterwards and it's about the time I call Whitney anyway. The phone rings four times before she ever answers it.

"I asked him," she answers.

"Asked who what?"

Whit huffs. "The guy I was studying with, Hudson! You told me to ask him out and I did."

Oh, yeah. Right. "Well, good for you. I'm assuming you've got a date?"

"You know it." She's probably wearing a smug smile. She goes on to tell me more about him, but after about five minutes, I zone out.

"Whit! Do I look like one of your little friends? I don't need to know all of this. He's a nice guy, right?"

"Yes. Sorry. You weren't saying anything, so I just kept going."

I laugh. If someone doesn't interrupt her, she could talk for days. "Well, I actually met a girl today at Jim's who doesn't know that I'm Hudson King, hockey player extraordinaire."

Whitney bursts out laughing, as if what I said was that funny. It was worthy of a chuckle, but not so funny that she would laugh for almost a full minute. "You're so full of yourself. Who is she?"

"Her name is Ellie and all I really know is that she doesn't live in Portland. I don't think she ever said where she was from."

"Hope she doesn't turn out to be a crazy person or something. Are you sure she wasn't just pretending to not know who you are? Anyone can use Google and find out where you like to hang out, Hudson."

I shake my head even though she can't see me. "I don't think so. She never acted like she recognized me. Whit, she almost pepper sprayed me! Would a fan do that to me? No."

"Wait, what? What did you do?"

"Sort of chased her down the street?" I chuckle to make it sound like I'm not the crazy one. "She didn't even want to take my number. She handed it back to me!"

Whitney starts laughing again. "Then I guess she really doesn't know who you are then. Or maybe she doesn't like you." Her giggles are getting out of hand now.

"Okay. That's enough. Don't you have something better to do?"

"Nope. How does it feel to know that you almost couldn't pick up a girl and she didn't even know that you're sort of famous. In Portland, anyway." She almost couldn't talk because of her laughter.

"That was my favorite thing about her! She doesn't know what I do, Whitney. Do you know what that means? There aren't any crazy expectations, no 'You will never believe who I'm dating' stories, nothing but normalcy because she doesn't have a clue. This could be a good thing, if she ever texts me that is."

Whit is quiet for a second. "Does this mean you aren't going to tell her?"

"Not right away. Maybe. I don't have to, right?"

"Up to you, Hudson. She's going to know eventually and lying to her from the start about something as basic as your job won't go over well."

She does have a point. I don't know if it's better than the alternative, though. Either way, it's not something I need to tell her right now. "I'll think about it, but for now, I'm sticking to that plan. I'm plain old Hudson to her and I don't want to change that."

"Okay. Go be a regular guy then. When in doubt about whatever you decide to do, ask yourself if you would want a guy to do the same thing to me."

Oh, no. She always tells me that, but it always works too. "I will. Gotta go, though. I'll call you later. Love ya."

"Love ya too, Hudson."

I toss my phone on the couch and go into the kitchen to fix something to drink. A vibration sounds loudly on the leather. When I sit down and pick it up, my lips lift in a smile at the text.

Ellie: Hey, it's Ellie...from the bar? Just texting so you'll have my number.

I send back a message, saying thanks and that I was worried I might have scared her off.

Ellie: A little, but I'm safe with text messaging

Part of me wants to say something mildly dirty, but she admitted that she easily blushes and I rather save that for when I can see her blush. So instead, I joke that no pepper spray is needed. Not that she would ever need it with me.

Ellie: You never know these days, lots of crazies in the Big City

Ha. She doesn't have to tell me that.

Me: True.

Ellie: Are you from Portland?

Me: Nope. I'm Canadian. Nice, eh?

Ellie: Nice. Thought you had an accent

Me: Where are you from?

Ellie: Small town in Idaho

Me: Traveled from there all the way here?

She doesn't text as quickly as before. After five minutes pass, I wonder if that wasn't a good question and if I have finally scared her off.

Ellie: I live in a small town in Washington now

Me: & do you like it there?

Ellie: Yes, I do. It's quiet and no one ever bothers you

That sounds nice, the complete opposite of how it can be here sometimes. A glance at the clock tells me I should probably get to bed.

Me: Long day tomorrow. Text later? :)

Ellie: Yeah, I have a lot of driving in the morning. Thanks for dinner again. Talk soon

I send her one last text for the night.

Me: My pleasure. Drive safely!

~ ~ ~

If there is ever anything I always carry on road trips, it's my iPad. I'm addicted to playing games during the flight. I'll download a game and play only that game until I get bored. I do have a few favorites, but I usually play new ones. Today, however, I'm in the mood for a favorite. I touch the right app and start dragging my finger all over the screen to make as many words as I can in only two minutes. The time seems to pass quicker that way.

It's fate that I thought about my favorite diner yesterday because we're headed to Dallas. Sometime today, I've got to call my mother. Or I might wait until tomorrow. Depends on how today goes. She's expecting a call this week though. When we land, our bags are shipped off to the hotel and we head to our practice before tonight.

Afterwards, we'll grab a bite to eat and hang out at the hotel before it's time to go back. The game tonight should be an easy win. I usually try not to overthink about how it will go because it can always go either way. I learned early that the game really isn't over until that last buzzer sounds. A lot can happen in as little as a second, just the same as twenty minutes time. For some reason, today feels like I don't have time.

It feels like I'm running around all over the place. I even missed my usual pre-game nap, but it was for a good cause. Gerald decided to mess with the rookies a little. They've been extra observant since Whitney took their money, so it backfired on him. It was hilarious.

Finally, the game gets underway. The other team isn't letting this be an easy win for us. I get slammed into the boards after making a pass, but it was a beautiful one and Gerald slaps it past the goalie. Within thirty seconds, they score right behind us. At the end of the first, we're tied 1-1 and the second period passes without any goals. It'll come down to one of us having to score in the third to keep from going into overtime.

A rookie gains possession about halfway through the third, makes his way between two others, and then pushes the puck with a wrist shot. The goalie deflects and he quickly makes the rebound shot to bring us up.

We win the game and boy, am I freaking exhausted once it's all over with. By the time I get back to the hotel, I have enough energy to plug in my phone and crawl into bed. There's a text from Ellie, but I need sleep. I'll make sure to message her back tomorrow. I can barely hold my eyes open once the comfy-ness of the bed envelopes me.

Chapter Four

Ellie

When I woke up, I assumed that Hudson would have texted me back, I'm wrong. He didn't text me at all. I take a deep breath and head into the shower. I'm a little hurt. I thought he liked me. It took me a good hour just to talk myself into sending that very first text to give him my number. Maybe he's just a big flirt and has moved on to another girl.

I finish getting ready for work and head off. I don't have to drive too long to work since it's in the next town over. Jeffrey will be back from his vacation today, and I'm curious on what his thoughts are on my big success.

When Jeffrey calls me into his office, all he says is: "Good job, you'll be in Portland more."

That's it. At least, he said 'good job', even if there was some sarcasm with it. I simply nod, and go about my day. I visit a few of my clients to ensure they are well stocked in supplies. I will admit I checked my phone more often throughout the day to see if Hudson texted back, he didn't. I know one person that will text me back.

Me: I'm in need of a friend and a glass of wine. Are you nearby?

Lacey's company keeps her traveling all over Washington and Oregon. So, I can't be sure where she is?

Lacey: I'm not too far from you today. I've got one more stop. I could be at your house in an hour.

Me: See you then.

I head back to the office, finish up some quick paperwork, and then go home. I know when Lacey said 'one hour' she would be there in two. I don't think that girl is able to tell time, very well.

The first time I met her at a seminar, I was hiding in the back row. She slipped into the seat next to me, ten minutes after it started. When it was over, she started talking to me, and that was how we became friends. She is the opposite of me. She is blunt, with a great personality. I'm more like a dormouse.

"I know, I'm late," she announces, walking through my door.

"I figured." I hand her a glass of wine, and she sits down at my kitchen table. She takes a big gulp.

"Okay, I'm ready to be a friend." She sits the glass down and stares at me.

I smile sweetly at her. "I think I met a guy."

She looks at me puzzled. "Before I get excited, what do you mean by, 'I think'?"

I sit down next to her. "I met him at a bar in Portland. We talked a little. It was a nice and simple conversation. I almost pepper sprayed him, and then he gave me his number. I got the courage to text him later that night, and we chatted some more. It was all very sweet."

"Shut the front door! I can't believe it. Tell me everything about him." I can see the excitement on her face. I'm sure that she is completely shocked, since I haven't dated anyone since I've known her.

"Well, his last name is Hudson, but seems like that is what he prefers to go by. He's from Canada. He said that he has a little sister. He's got great arms. I texted him last night and he hasn't texted since. So, I'm not sure what's going on?"

"So, what's his first name?"

"I don't know."

"What part of Canada is he from?"

"I don't know."

"What does he do for a living?"

"I don't know."

"Does he live in Portland?"

"I don't know."

"Well, you're very informative dear." Lacey laughs at me. "You met a guy, whose first name is a mystery. You don't know where he lives or where he is from? Plus, you don't know what he does for a living? Sounds like your dream guy." She sneers a bit, sipping her wine.

"Hey, come on." I know that she was teasing me, but I don't know what to do.

"Alright, alright." She puts her hands up in surrender. "Do you like him?"

I thought for a moment at the question. "Well, he was easy to talk to. You know, when I wasn't thinking about running away. He's very nice looking, too. But I thought he liked me too. Now, he isn't texting me back, so I'm clueless on this."

"Okay, let's figure this out. Does he look like a banker-lawyer-doctor type?"

I shake my head. "His hands were rough. Like the outdoorsy kind of rough."

"You said he had great arms, right?"

I nod.

"Well, then he must be in some sort of construction. He might work second or third shift, that's why he didn't text you."

That made some sense. She's probably right.

"So, you shouldn't think too much of it. Just because he doesn't text right back doesn't mean anything." She sits there and stares at me for a moment. "I've meant to ask you, when was the last time you were on a date? I've known you for a year and you haven't dated anyone."

"Um, it's been a while." I shift uncomfortably in my seat, drinking my wine. I really don't want to tell Lacey the truth.

"How long is 'a while'?"

"Well, it was before my aunt got sick, so three years ago." I look at Lacey, and the only expression I can read is pure shock.

"You haven't dated in three years?" She questions me.

"Well, I dated a little in college, but when I had to drop out to take care of my aunt, I didn't have time. Then when I moved here, I focused on my job."

She doesn't say anything. She just stares at me. I figure she is thinking I'm some sort of freak.

"I've been dating since I've been fourteen, and the longest I've been without a guy is a month. I'm impressed you've gone three years. That must be some sort of record?"

I shrug. I want to avoid the fact that I've not dated in a while.

"So, how's work going for you?" I change the topic.

She goes on to tell me about her job and all the contacts that she's making. She's really moving up in her company, and I'm happy for her. She has that outgoing personality that companies love, and she deserves it from all her hard work.

Then she goes into detail about this guy she is seeing. It doesn't surprise me that Lacey is seeing someone. I've never known for her to be in a serious relationship, but she's always got someone around.

Lacey tells me that she has to go, because she needs to be in Seattle for a meeting tomorrow. I give her a hug and tell her to be careful. She tells me to keep her updated on Hudson and to find out his first name. I laugh at her.

I lock up the house and take a hot shower. When I crawl in bed, I turn on the TV. All that was on is the news, and they're talking sports, so I shut it off. I normally don't watch it at all. It's always some crappy sporting event or a bad sitcom. Instead, I pick up my book that I'm reading from the nightstand and see my phone is blinking.

Hudson: So sorry I didn't text you yesterday. It was a long night at work. I just fell asleep when I got in.

Maybe Lacey was right. He must work an odd shift. I guess everyone can't work eight to five. Whatever the case might be, I'm thrilled that he texted me back.

Me: No biggie, I understand.

Hudson: How was your day?

Me: Good. My boss told me I would be in Portland more for work

Hudson: That is good for me then, I get to see you more!

My heart skips at the thought of seeing him.

Hudson: Will you be in town Thursday?

Thursday was two days away and by all of Jeffrey's emails I got today, I knew that I would be there.

Me: I believe I will be

Hudson: How about lunch? It's supposed to be a nice spring day. We could have a picnic in the park?

A picnic? In a park? I'm not sure. That seems intimate.

Hudson: It's a public park & you can bring the pepper spray ;)

I laugh out loud at his comment. It's like he knew my hesitation.

Me: around 1?

Hudson: Perfect. Center Park @ 1. I'll bring the food, you grab the drinks.

I stare at his text for several moments. I'm going on a date. A real date.

Chapter Five

Hudson

Tomorrow is my date with Ellie and today, we're at our second away game of the week. I have a few minutes to spare, so I was going to send her a text. But then I realized that I couldn't remember what her voice sounded like. It's something small, but right this moment, it's bugging the hell out of me. That is how I ended up standing in the hallway with the phone pressed to my ear, listening to it ring and ring.

It actually rang only twice. Third time's the charm because I hear a small, almost uncertain voice answer.

"Hudson?"

"Hey, I hope it's okay that I called," I say, looking over my shoulder at the sound of a couple of the guys messing around in the hallway. "I might not be able to chat later and I wanted to actually talk to you for a few minutes."

"Oh." Ellie is quiet for a moment before adding, "Yeah, of course that's okay. How are you today?"

"Eh, pretty good. You?"

"It was a day."

I laugh at her nonchalance. "There is a question I must ask you."

"Okay. What's that?"

"Any allergies or extreme dietary dislikes?" I ask.

"No, I'm pretty easy to please when it comes to food."

"Does this mean it's hard to please you otherwise?" I chuckle, but then realize she's probably blushing like crazy. "Sorry. I won't forget my manners tomorrow, promise."

Ellie laughs. "I'll hold you to that."

"It was really nice to talk to you, Ellie, but my break is over. I'll see ya."

"See ya, Hudson."

I hang up just in time because one of the guys yells my name. Calling was a good idea. Not only did I get to refresh the memory of her voice, but I got her to laugh too. I have to get through tonight and then tomorrow I have the day off. That's what makes it perfect for a date with Ellie and to finally call my mom as well.

Right now though, it's game time.

~ ~ ~

The park I texted Ellie to meet me at isn't a busy one as far as parks go. I'm hoping that by choosing that place, I can prevent getting recognized. First things first, I have to talk to my mother. Last month, she bought a new computer and she wants to video chat with me to finally try it out.

Sitting at my kitchen counter, I wait for her face to pop up on my screen.

"Hudsy," she smiles. The older I get, the more I wish she would stop calling me that. It sounds similar to sudsy and for good reason, but no need to think about that today.

"Hey, Mom. How are things going? What's Dad up to?"

My mother completely ignores my questions, too fascinated by technology. "This is so weird. You're on my screen, Hudsy! It's almost like you're sitting here with me."

"It's unbelievable how the world has changed, I know."

Her eyes squint, and as if I really was sitting across from her, she leans in like she's examining me. "You're dressed nicer than usual for a day off. What are you doing today?"

"Did you really have to lean in to see that?" I ask, avoiding her question.

"Hudson." That's all she says and she doesn't even have to add a threatening tone.

"I have a date, Mom. That's all."

She folds her arms over her chest, narrows her eyes, and then grins. "I know. Your sister told me. Hopefully, she's the girl for you. You can't rely on your brother to give me all the grandchildren I want. You have to do your part too, you know."

I laugh, my eyes flickering to the time at the top of my screen. "Mom, I love you, but I gotta go. I'll call you later."

"Okay, Hudsy. Have fun on your little date."

Shaking my head, I end the conversation. My mother is losing it, I think. Ever since Ethan had his first kid, Mom has been all about grandchildren, and she isn't even around them all the time!

I push the thought of children out of mind as I drive to meet Ellie at the park. I end up getting there a little early, but Ellie is right behind me a minute later when I'm sitting at a picnic table with two brown paper bags. I really hope she doesn't think this was a dumb idea. The thought behind it isn't, I don't think.

She gives me a small smile as she walks towards me. Ellie is dressed in khaki pants with a red blouse, dressed conservatively. When she walks up to the table with a small cooler, I stand and as if it was the most natural thing in the world, I lean over and kiss her cheek.

"Hey. How are you doing today?" I greet.

Her cheeks flush. She takes a seat across from me and says, "Good. How are you?"

I grin. "I'm fantastic. Do you have the drinks?"

Ellie nods, opens the cooler, and glances at me. "I wasn't sure what you liked, so I figured water was the safest bet." She pulls out two, ice cold bottles of water with droplets forming along the bottles as they hit the air and set them on the table between us.

"Water sounds perfect. I don't know about you, but when I think of the park and a picnic, I remember going on field trips with my school and eating lunch at the park. So I thought it would be kind of cool to go back to our childhood, in a sense." I hand her one of the bags. "Plus, if you're thinking of your childhood, you're less likely to attack me, right?"

Ellie giggles, shaking her head. "You're never going to let me live that down, are you?"

"Never." I open the bag and she does the same. Inside is a bag of plain chips, an apple, and a ham and cheese sandwich. Ellie doesn't seem upset in the least that we're having such a simple lunch in such a simple place. The park is more relaxing and less intimate than what a tiny table at a fancy restaurant can be. I don't want her to feel pressured or uncomfortable.

"Wait." Ellie notices that she has two Hershey kisses in the bottom of her bag and I don't have any. "Why do I have two?"

"We used to get something sweet after lunch if we behaved. One is for you and one is for me, if I do indeed keep my manners."

Ellie laughs softly, glancing up at me so her eyelashes are attempting to hide her striking brown eyes. "This is all kind of cute. Thanks."

"Welcome." We begin to eat, me going for the sandwich first and her the chips.

Ellie looks at me nervously, like she's debating something she's unsure of. "What is your first name?"

She catches me off guard, so my answer sounds like I'm questioning myself. "Hudson? My first name is Hudson."

Her cheeks flame bright red. "Oh. It just sounded like a last name to me. I-" Her voice falters with her embarrassment.

Great. Now I have to tell her my last name. What if she hears it and she has heard it before? I watch her closely and add, "My last name is King." I pause, wait for any recognition and then finish. "My name is Hudson King."

"Oh, that's a nice name. I like it. I guess I shouldn't have assumed that was your last name."

"Don't worry about it. Hudson was my mother's maiden name, so you were close. Now I think I should know yours, so we can be on a last name basis." I grin.

"Mine is Sullivan. Um, where did you grow up in Canada?"

For a second, I ignore her question, wanting to try out her name for myself. "Ellie Sullivan. Very pretty. I'm from Vancouver. And you? Somewhere in Idaho, right?"

"Well, I doubt you ever heard of it. It's just a small farming town. I grew up there with my aunt," she says sadly.

"Your aunt raised you?"

Ellie lowers her eyes to the table as she speaks, "Yes, since I was four. My parents were killed when their crop plane crashed. My dad would fertilize crops in the area, and my mom would go with him sometimes. The plane malfunctioned, and it crashed," she finishes sadly.

"Oh, I'm so sorry, Ellie." I reach out and lay my hand over hers.

"It's okay. It happened a long time ago. My aunt took care of me, and I'm grateful for everything that she did." The corners of her mouth lift in a sweet smile.

"Does that mean you're an only child? Because we could switch places. I have an older brother and a younger sister."

"Ha, yes, I'm an only child. Are you close to your siblings? What about your parents?"

"We're all very close. My sister goes to school in Seattle, my brother lives with his family in Orlando, and my parents are still in Vancouver. We're kind of all over the place," I say.

"That's so great that you have a family, even if you're spread out. I bet it's a great excuse to travel."

"Oh, yeah, and we love traveling. Some of us more than others. Do you like to travel?" I don't want to mention that I travel often because of work and I do like it, so it's still true.

"Um, I've been to Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. That has been the extent of my travels. I would like to travel more, but the last couple years I have been occupied with other things going on in my life."

"Where would you go then?" I ask.

"Paris. I always wanted to go to Paris. Have you been to Europe?"

"Yeah, a few times. Never to Paris, though."

"Are your world travels for business or pleasure?"

Hm. "Both," I answer honestly. "Any particular reason why you want to go to Paris?"

Ellie slightly blushes at my question. She is so adorable when she does that. "I guess it's the girly side of me. Wanting to go to the 'City of Love', see all the amazing art and structures. I guess it's a little silly, saying it out loud."

I shake my head at her. "Oh, no. The 'City of Love' certainly sounds appealing. It's not girly either. That's why I want to go to Paris," I grin at her, causing her to laugh.

There's a short lull before Ellie says, "So, you said your sister was in college. Did you go to college?"

"Yeah, I went to Boston College. You?"

"Well, I only went to a community college for a little while. I dropped out and haven't been able to go back yet." She shrugs, but it seems like there's more to it than that.

"If I may ask, why did you drop out?"

"My aunt became ill, and I had to take care of her. She passed away a little over two years ago."

"I'm sorry to hear that. Do you have any other family?"

She shakes her head. "It's just me."

Ellie doesn't have anyone. That sounds so terrible. "Well, what do you like to do for fun? I would peg you as someone who seeks the thrill from doing something small that you shouldn't do."

"Not really. For fun, I love to go running and hiking up trails. Nature calms me."

"So the park is a good place to take you on a date. We're surrounded by nature!" At this, she smiles. "I like to run too. We should run together sometime."

"Well, how about Saturday? We could, um, go running together. I know this great trail not too far from my house. I mean, if you want to come that far for a date."

"That far for a date with you? It would be my pleasure. Are you going to have your weapon of choice on hand?" I grin when she laughs.

"Yeah, I will, but I don't think I need to use it. Just yet, anyway."

"Good. However, I can't do Saturday. What about tomorrow? Maybe you could get off work early? Or Sunday even?"

"Well, I could do that, I have some personal time I need to use anyway. May I ask why you can't do Saturday?"

"I have to work that day."

"Oh, okay. Well, I have to get back to work. I've really enjoyed today. It's been a long time since I've had an adult conversation that didn't involve bed pans."

I laugh when she hands me my Hershey kiss. "Glad I could be of service." I grab our things and walk her to her car.

She opens her door and then turns to face me. "Thanks again."

"Welcome." I lean forward, kiss her cheek, and slowly smile at her. "Drive safely."

Ellie blushes and nods before getting into her car to drive away.

Chapter Six

Ellie

"Let me get this straight. You went on a date, and you're going out on a second date?" Lacey's face expresses pure shock.

I nod. "My lunch date with Hudson was amazing. He was kind, initiative, and funny. Even though I didn't mean to tell him everything about my past, I actually didn't feel bad about it. He seemed to really care."

"I'm so proud of you. I mean it. But why are you having a date on a Friday afternoon?"

"Well, I think you're right. He has to work on Saturday, so I've taken Friday off to spend it with him." I can't believe I'm going on another date with Hudson again.

"So, what does he do?" Lacey inquire.

"I'm not sure. When he showed up, he was dressed nice, but not overly done up."

We sit there drinking our wine. I know Lacey is thinking about something because her face is all scrunched up.

"What are you thinking?" I ask her.

"I'm just surprised that he hasn't told you what he does for a living. I mean that is usually one of the first questions that I ask."

"Well, I'm not like you. I don't care what he does. He seems nice, and the fact that he doesn't want to go to fancy restaurants or nightclubs, makes me happy."

Lacey just shakes her head. "Have you ever been to a nightclub?"

I don't want to answer her, because the truth is, I haven't.

"Okay, that's it. I'm taking you to a nightclub on Saturday,"

I groan. There's no way I'm going. No way.

"I have to go. I will let you know how the date goes tomorrow." I give her a hug and head home.

When I get home, I finish up some paperwork that I have to get to Jeffrey, before he blows a gasket. It's then I notice a text from Hudson.

Hudson: I need your address if I'm picking you up tomorrow.

I didn't think about that. Should I give him my address? I remember my aunt always told me to be cautious, but I don't get a bad vibe from Hudson. I take a deep breath and text my address before I lose my nerve.

Hudson: See you at noon?

Me: Sounds perfect.

My hands are shaking a little bit. Hudson is coming to my house. I look around. My house is small. It's a single floor, with two bedrooms. I have a small front and backyard, but my favorite thing is my porch. I can sit on the porch and watch the world around me. Kids riding their bikes. Wives power-walking with their strollers. It's therapeutic to watch.

I head for the shower, and then to bed. I have a big day tomorrow.

~ ~ ~

Just like our lunch date, my whole body is trembling. I put my frizzy hair in a ponytail and put a little bit of makeup on. I'm wearing a pair of running pants, a tank top, and a lightweight jacket. I slip my tennis shoes on, as there's a knock on my door. He's here. I stare at my door, like it's the portal to the underworld. He knocks again, and I open the door.

Hudson stands on the other side. He's in basketball shorts, and a hoodie with a Viking helmet on it. I can't help my eyes as they wander up and down his body.

"Hey, Ellie." His voice is smooth, and I bite down on my lip.

"Hi, Hudson. Would you like to come in? I need to grab my pack in the kitchen."

He walks into my house. It makes me realize that no male has ever been in my house. I shut the door and head towards the kitchen. I pick up my backpack and finish putting supplies in it.

"What's that?" Hudson asks.

"Oh, there are several bottles of water, granola bars, first-aid kit, emergency battery for the phone, a flashlight, rope, and a couple other odds and ends." I shrug like it isn't a big deal.

"Wow, are you prepared for zombies too?"

I don't look at him, because I'm blushing. I like to be prepared for everything. I've done it all my life. I like to know that if something happens, I will be able to deal with.

"I was joking, Ellie. I like that you're ahead of the game." He touches my shoulder, and I give him a small smile.

"Are you ready?" I try to push my embarrassment away and think about the day ahead. He nods, and we head out. I follow Hudson to his truck and notice that the back of his hoodie has the number fourteen on it with his last name: KING on the top. He must be part of a company baseball team or something like that.

He opens the door for me, and I climb into his truck. When he jumps in on his side, he asks where he is going, and I point to the left. He asks me about work, and I go into detail on how the Portland contract is taking over my life. Our company will not only be supplying to several doctors, but I'm working on adding a couple clinics too.

"Wow, sounds like you're going to be there more often than you thought."

"Yep. My boss told me I would be too. It's fine, though. It's not that long of a drive."

I listen to the music that is faintly playing, as I direct him to the trail at the end of town. It doesn't take long to get there, because the town isn't that big. Hudson parks the truck, and we head up the trail. Not that I would tell him, but the pepper spray is in my front pocket. I don't think that Hudson will harm me, but just to be safe.

"Okay, are we running or hiking?" I turn to look at him just as we reach the beginning of the trail.

"You run this?"

I look down the trail. It's narrow and rocky in some parts, but overall it's easy.

"Sure, why not? Are you not a runner?"

"No, I mean, I run, but in a different fashion."

I look at him confused. "What?"

"Nothing, never mind. How many miles do you run?"

I shrug. "Maybe ten or twelve miles."

By the look on his face, I don't think he could run that long.

"How about we just walk for a few miles? You know, just enjoy nature," I finally suggest.

"Yes, let's do that." He grabs my hand, and we begin to walk the trail.

We don't say anything. I'm still in shock that he is holding my hand. They're rough, and when he runs his thumb over my knuckles, it sends a tingle through me.

"Hudson," I clear my throat. "Is there a reason you didn't want to run the trail? I mean you seem pretty fit."

"Well, I worked out with a couple of buddies last night and overdid it a little. Besides that, I can't enjoy your company if you're running laps around me." He winks, and my heart skips a beat.

"Why didn't you say anything? We could have done something else."

"Nah, I like this, but just not running. Do you want me to carry the backpack?"

I adjust the strap and shake my head. "No, I like the weight."

We walk further up the trail, in silence. I love the sounds of nature, especially in the spring. The squirrels are hopping from limb to limb. The birds are chirping loudly. It's so peaceful.

Hudson is still holding my hand, but I realize that he's limping a bit. I don't want him to be in pain because of me.

"Hey, want to take a break and have a little lunch?"

"You have lunch in there."

"Sort of," I say. I let go of his hand and shrug off the pack. I pull out a blanket that I had packed and unroll it on the ground. I sit down, grab two bottles of water, and a couple of the granola bars. I notice that Hudson is still standing.

"What?"

"I was just waiting for you to pull something else out of your magic bag, Hermione."

I throw my head back and laugh at his Harry Potter reference, as he sits down next to me.

"I didn't peg you to read Harry Potter." I bump his shoulder, handing the items to him.

"Don't be too impressed. I saw the movies, I didn't read the books."

"Well, I haven't seen the movies, but I read all the books. So, I guess we're even."

"You don't watch TV a whole lot, do you?"

I shake my head. "Just the news, every once in a while. I mainly read books. I guess I sound like a nerd." I hang my head, picking at my granola bar.

"Nope, TV is overrated. You know," he shifts next to me, "I never asked if you play any sports in school?"

I giggle. "Absolutely not. I have no coordination at all. I'm surprised I made it this far in my life without breaking a bone."

He slightly chuckles next to me. "Um, you watch any professional sports?"

I shake my head. "I think professional athletes are way overpaid. They think of themselves as celebrities, and they should be thinking about all the kids that look up to them."

"I don't think all professional athletes are like that," he says quietly.

"Well, from what I see they are. Just another reason why I don't watch them."

We were quiet for a moment, and when I look over at Hudson, he almost looks sad.

"Hey, I never asked you what your major was in college?" I try to sound cheerful. I'm sure I offended him in some way. I bet anything that he is a raging sports fan.

"I majored in architecture."

"Oh, you're an architect!" I finally figure out what he does. It's like a lightbulb going off. It all makes sense. Downtown Portland has been constructing new buildings all over the place. That must be where he works and knew about Jim's because it's all right there.

"Well, I guess you could call me that. I haven't designed my own building or anything."

"Don't worry I'm sure you will soon enough." I rub his back. I didn't even realize that I'm soothing him, until he smiles at me. Immediately, I drop my hand, and I feel my neck get red. "Um, ready to head back? I figure by the time we get back we will have about five miles in."

"Sure, why not?" He stands, holding his hand out for me. I take it as he pulls me up.

I turn to get the blanket, when my foot gets caught on a small rock, and I trip. Luckily, Hudson's reflexes are quick, and he grabs my arms, pulling me towards him. We have never been this close. I hold onto his muscular arms, and my breath catches. I look into his chocolate brown eyes as they dip down to look at my lips. Instinctively, I lick them. I'm not sure what the hell I'm doing when I see him lean into me. I quickly devise a plan to turn my head, and he could kiss my cheek instead. That's not what happened. When I turned my head, I end up whipping him in the face with my ponytail.

"Ouch." He grabs the side of his face, as I gasp.

"I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to do that. I," I stop because I didn't want to say that I'm not sure if I'm ready to kiss him, yet.

"Ellie, its fine. It's my fault. I forgot my manners again." He steps back from me. My face is so red I'm about to burst into flames. I'm not sure what to say or do at this point.

"Let me help you pack the bag." Hudson shakes out the blanket, while I gather our trash.

We head back on the trail, going back towards the car. Hudson still holds my hand, even though I almost blinded him with my frizzy ponytail. Not much is said as he drives back to my house. I'm pretty sure this could be the worst date in history. If he ever calls me again, I'll be lucky.

When we get to my house, he walks me to the door. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to say or do.

"I'm sorry about the whole hitting you in the face," I stumble on my words.

"It was a first for me, that's for sure," he chuckles.

"Um, would you like to come in? I could make us something to eat." I bite my lip because I see the sadness in his eyes.

"I would love to, but I really have to get back into the city. Sorry."

"That's fine, I understand. Thanks for a great day."

"No, Ellie. Thank you." He smiles brightly at me and walks away.

He didn't kiss my cheek like he had before. My heart races a bit, because I'm pretty sure that this will be the last time I see him. God, I'm such a dork. I don't want this to be the last time I see him.

"Hudson," I call out before he gets in the truck. I drop my pack and jog to him. "I really am sorry about everything. I'm a klutz."

"Ellie, it's really okay."

I clear my throat. "I did have a great time. Thank you." I know I have to do it before I lose my nerve. I place my hands on his arms, stand on my tiptoes and kiss his cheek. I probably should have kissed him on the lips, but I don't want to rush anything. Even if this is a goodbye kiss.

I step back from him and head into the house.

Chapter Seven

Hudson

I had decided to tell her about my job, which is one reason why I felt good about wearing my hoodie. But then she said what she did about pro athletes, and I completely chickened out. Then I went to kiss her and her hair smacked me in the face. She's much shyer than I originally thought. I didn't want to freak her out again, so I didn't kiss her cheek when I was leaving. Then she surprised the hell out of me by coming up and kissing my cheek.

I have no clue what to think of this girl. I'm so thankful that I'm about to have dinner with my sister. Maybe she can give me some insight. We're eating across town at her favorite restaurant. She always makes me take her there whenever I come to see her. I'm almost to Seattle and before we go eat, I'm going to shower and change. It's not a bad drive, but then, driving and traffic don't bother me at all. Either way, I'll get to where I'm going at some point.

When I finally get to Whit's place, I hold my hand up to knock on the door when it opens and a guy is standing on the other side. Who the hell is this?

"Oh, hey. Whit," the guy calls over his shoulder. He holds out his hand, almost towering over me with his height. I already don't like him. "You must be Hudson. I'm Drew."

Whitney pops up behind me, looking a little nervous. I reach out and shake his hand to keep from being rude. "Nice to meet you." I tilt my head to look at Whit.

"I'll see you later, Drew," she tells him before looking to me. "Perfect timing. We just finished studying."

Studying? On a Friday? I'll believe that, but only because it's better than the alternative. Drew says something about how it's nice to meet me and then waits for me to step aside so he can leave. I wait just a few seconds before I do so. I may be shorter than he is, but that doesn't mean anything. My sister grabs my arm and drags me inside.

"Since when do you study here, Whit? Doesn't the campus have a library?"

Whitney shakes her head, completely ignoring me. "How did your date go? Or better yet, go take a shower and you can tell me all about it at dinner." She shoves me towards the bathroom.

"How did your date go?" I ask just outside of the bathroom.

"Perfect. Happy now?"

"Nope."

Once I get my shower and change, we take my vehicle to the restaurant. It's not until after we order drinks that we actually start to talk. Before I forget, I tell Whitney to stop telling Mom about me.

"Do you know that I had to listen to her talk about grandkids again because of you? We don't need to get her hopes up that I'm about to marry somebody until it actually happens."

Whit laughs. "She asked how you were doing, so I told her. You should have called her sooner and then she wouldn't have asked me. So how did it go?"

Without really meaning to, I fold my arms over my chest. "Good."

"But? Have you told her about your job yet?"

I shake my head. "I was going to, but she doesn't particularly have the highest regards for pro athletes. She thinks I'm an architect."

"How in the world did that happen? Hudson, wait. Are you telling me that you wore a Portland Vikings hoodie with your name and number on it and she still doesn't know what you do?"

Sighing, I tell her what happened. "I told her what I majored in and she came to that conclusion."

"And you didn't refute it?" Her voice drips with disbelief.

"Sort of?"

"What do you mean 'sort of'?"

"My exact words were: I guess you could call me that. But anyway, I don't know what she thought about my hoodie. She didn't ask about it and she says she doesn't follow sports at all."

Whitney folds her arms over her chest as well and leans back in her chair, eyeing me suspiciously. "I don't believe it," she finally says. "Your clothes were evidence enough. How does she not know, Hudson?"

I feel like I should defend her. "Because she was actually telling the truth and really doesn't care about sports? Whit, she thought my last name was Hudson and when I told her what it really is, there were no signs of recognition at all. She doesn't know. I don't want to tell her either."

"Okay," she leans forward, resting her elbows on the table, "let's say for a moment that she honestly doesn't know. Just because you don't want to tell her, doesn't mean that is a reason not to tell her. You're already messing it up by omitting the basics of information."

Her words brew in my mind. She's partly right. Something so basic as my job, shouldn't be so difficult to tell someone. But it isn't like I have a regular desk job either. Before I can answer her, a girl walks up to our table, excuses herself, and then asks for an autograph with a ridiculous grin on her face. She's really excited about me being here. I sign her paper and when she walks away, I look at Whitney, who has a smug smile on her face.

"See? You aren't even in Portland, Hudson. I still think she has to know something at least."

Narrowing my eyes at her, I ignore her comment. "There is something I want your opinion on. She's a shy girl, like really shy. Ellie blushes at the littlest things." I pause, debating if I should actually tell her about the almost-kiss. "She tripped and when I caught her, I went to kiss her and she turned her head so fast her ponytail whipped forward and hit me. I don't know. She seems to plan for every possible 'what if' and she was that shy to turn away from me. I have been giving her a kiss on the cheek, though, and when I didn't because I didn't want to make her uncomfortable or anything, she kissed me. On the cheek," I add. Whitney is trying not to laugh, probably over the kissing mishap. "What am I supposed to do about that?"

"Are you telling me that you are so used to girls throwing themselves at you, that you honestly don't know what to do with a girl who has decent morals?" She raises her brows to dare me to object to what she said.

"That's not what I meant."

Whitney smiles like she has an evil plan. "I think the only way I can help you with your girl problems is to meet her myself."

"No," I interrupt before she can go any further. "You would scar her for life! The answer is hell no, Whit."

"Oh, c'mon, Hudsy." She laughs, and if she thinks she can convince me by teasing me with my mother's nickname for me, it's not going to work. "But seriously, I can help you better if I meet her and see what she's like for myself."

I groan. I really, really think this is a bad idea. But when she adds that she won't give me her opinion on this at all anymore, I mumble, "Fine." Whitney grins victoriously, but before she can say anything, I add, "You, under no circumstance, can talk about hockey. Understood? Ellie isn't going to find out from you."

Whitney nods and my stomach sinks. This isn't going to turn out well. I need advice though. I still don't think I should tell Ellie just yet either. She seems to like me as I am to her right now, not to mention what she said about pro players is ingrained into my mind. Telling her would alter her perception of me, and I'm not ready to let that go. We're having fun. Why mess that up?

We spend the rest of dinner talking about Whitney and her schoolwork. I pay for dinner and on the way to her house, she asks when she's going to be able to meet Ellie. Instinct tells me to say never ever ever. Instead, I tell her that I'll let her know. The entire drive home, I'm wondering how in the world I'm going to be able to pull this off.

~ ~ ~

Our game tonight is at home, one of my favorite places to play. Home games have such a different atmosphere than away games. Our fans are here and they are loud, excited, and greedy for some hockey. One way to explain it is that it's like having a ton of clones of my mom, my biggest fan, cheering us on. Moms are always the loudest, the most outspoken, and the best fans ever. Playing home games with our fans is sort of like that. So when we skate out onto the ice, the arena erupts with screams, clapping, and so much noise. Happiness settles in my heart. This is where I'm supposed to be. This is home.

My mind pushes Ellie, my sister and how she's supposed to meet her, and every other thing but hockey out of my mind. Nothing exists but the sounds of skates slicing into the ice, pucks being hit by sticks, some deflecting loudly off the glass or the posts.

Tonight, we're playing the Indiana Mustangs and their captain is Brody Ross. Talk about focusing on the game, that guy is serious and focused when he steps onto the ice. I met him once and he was pretty easy going and funny, the complete opposite during a game. It should be a good, tough match up.

They are a force to be reckoned with and the game flies by too quickly with a 2-0 loss. When I finally make it home, my phone lights up with a missed text from Ellie. I change, fall into my bed, and then text her back.

Me: Sorry, just getting home. Have a good day?

Part of me thinks that Ellie is a really innocent girl and she's probably already in bed. She proves me wrong when she responds.

Ellie: It was a day. You?

Me: Could have been better.

A win would have been really nice. My thumbs hover over the unfinished text. Might as well get this over with.

Me: Would you like to have dinner with me and my sister next week?

Ellie: Um, sure?

Me: Bring the spray. Not for you. For me, so I can keep my sister in line. haha jk

Ellie: Should I be nervous?

Yes, yes you should. That's what I want to say, because hell, I'm nervous. Instead, I tell her that there is nothing to worry about. I even go as far to say that it'll be fun.

Fun. Hell. Same thing, right?
Chapter Eight

Ellie

I can't believe that he texted me. I just sent him a simple text just to see if he would ever text me back. When I saw the text from him, my heart jumped. Then, out of the blue, he asks me to meet his sister. I don't know what that means. I know meeting the parents is a huge deal, but a sister?

I haven't spoken to Lacey since I ditched her on Saturday, but I need her now. I send her a text and ask to meet her for dinner. She agreed, but wanted to go out to eat. I knew she was going to make me go out. She nagged me all day on Saturday to go to a club, but instead I laid in bed and read a great book.

I park my car and head into the restaurant. I hate big crowds and eating out could be the worst, sometimes. I see Lacey in a corner table, flirting with some waiter. I can't help but feel a ping of jealousy at her because I wish I had her confidence.

The waiter doesn't even notice me as I sit in the chair across from her. She gives him her number, and he leaves.

"Well, how have you been since you stood me up?" She crosses her arms and gives me an evil look.

"You know I don't like nightclubs."

"You've never been to one. How do you know that you don't like it?" Her eyes narrow at me.

"Touché." I hang my head.

"Now that I've said my peace, tell me about lover boy." Her mean face goes away, and it's replaced by a bright smile.

"I think I'm in trouble." I go into great detail of everything that happened on the trail. Lacey covers her mouth to hide her laugh when I tell her about the mishap of the non-kiss.

"So, Mr. Hudson is an architect. That's some money there. But I can't believe you didn't kiss him."

I shift in my seat and sip my wine. I didn't want to tell her that I'm scared to death to kiss him. "It gets worse," I tell her.

"How?"

"He wants me to meet his sister. Next week."

"Wow, well, I guess you didn't scare him away. But why his sister?"

"He told me that he's close to his siblings, and his sister goes to school in Seattle."

"That makes sense then. So, are you going to go?"

As much as I want to back out and not go, I already told Hudson that I would go. I'm scared to death about though. "Yes, I told him that I would go. What does it mean to meet his sister? I mean is it like meeting the parents?"

She thinks for a moment. "In this case, it's probably a pre-screening."

"It's not like I'm asking the government to date Hudson King."

Lacey stops and stares at me. "What did you say? What's his name?"

"Hudson King."

She scrunches her face like she's doing a hard math problem. "I know that name. How do I know that name?"

I gasp. "Oh, God, have you slept with him?"

She gives me a pointed look. "I haven't slept with every guy in Portland. But that name is so familiar." Lacey sits there, trying to figure out how she knows Hudson. "Maybe I worked with him or something."

I nod in agreement. Lacey works with a lot of clients and seems to know everyone. I guess that it's possible they have met in passing.

The waiter comes back and takes our order for food. I change the topic and ask Lacey about work. She goes into all the new clients that she is working with, and she's hoping to get a promotion from work. That way she wouldn't be on the road as much.

I begin to talk about all the traveling that I've been doing from home to Portland. I think I'm spending more time in my car than my own home. We talk more about some guy that Lacey has been talking to. She seems to like him, but she won't commit to anyone yet. She seems to always have one or two of them around. Even though I know she doesn't sleep with all of them, she keeps her options open. It makes me feel like a nun, because I can't even kiss Hudson.

Our food comes, and we eat with some small talk. I tell her about this great book I just finished reading. She tells me about some reality show she has been watching. It's hard to believe that we are such good friends, because we have almost nothing in common. Then again, maybe that is why we are friends. Our differences seem to bring us together.

When we finish, we head out on our separate ways. I'm exhausted when I get home. I still have work to do, but when my phone alerts me of a text, my breath catches. It's Hudson.

Hudson: How about dinner when you get off work tomorrow?

Me: I won't be in Portland.

Hudson: Oh, okay

I want to see him, but I doubt he would come to my house. Do I want him here?

Me: We could have dinner at my house? If you want?

He doesn't answer back right away. I guess that he doesn't want to. That's fine. I shouldn't push him into anything.

Hudson: I'll bring the wine. Around 5 okay?

Me: See you then

Oh my God, Hudson's coming to my house. What the heck am I going to cook? I slap my hand to my forehead. Why didn't I think this through?

~ ~ ~

I wake up tired the next morning from tossing and turning all night long. Hudson is going to be in my house in less than ten hours. I need to get through work first, then have my panic attack after that.

On my way to the office, I remind myself that I need to purchase some more books on CDs. I flip through the radio stations and all they're talking about is sports. I finally just shut it off and turn on my Pandora app.

The moment I walk into the office, Jeffrey is yelling for me. I quickly think if I'm in trouble. I don't remember doing anything.

Jeffrey sits behind his desk, staring at me. If you were walking down the street Jeffrey would be that creepy guy who makes you cross the street. The light in his office is making his bald spot shine.

"There will be a huge fundraiser for the children's hospital. It's next month, and I need you there. No excuses." His voice is stern and husky.

"Jeffrey, you know I don't do parties," I say quietly, looking at the floor.

"You're my top sales rep. God knows why? But your skinny ass will be there. Here." I look up at him. He's holding out an envelope for me. I gingerly take it. "Remember to dress like one of those models in the magazines."

I turn and leave his office, before he can say anything else. I swiftly answer all my emails, finish my paperwork, and call back a few clients. I want to get out of there as quickly as possible, because I need to figure out what I'm making for dinner.

After several hours, I'm done. I didn't even eat lunch. However, I ate a quick snack at my desk. I gather my things and race home. The second I get in the house, I open my fridge and stare at it. I have nothing in there to cook. Crap! Of course I should have planned this better.

I slam the door shut and quickly think what else I can do in a short amount of time. I have to resort to calling a local diner and order two burger platters. I tell them that I will pick them up in about an hour. I hurry through my house, trying to change, redo my makeup, and make sure I have time to get the food.

By some sort of miracle, I'm able to do it all. I'm fixing our plates, when the doorbell rings. I wipe my hands on the towel and inspect myself in the hallway mirror. I chose a pair of skinny jeans, with a light pink blouse, and matching ankle boots. I left my hair down and tried to tame the frizz as much as possible.

When I open the door my mouth drops. Hudson is in a pair of loose fitting jeans and a black dress shirt. His hair is that sexy out-of-bed look, and his eyes are bright when he looks me up and down.

"Hey Ellie."

"Hey," I breathe out. He's so handsome that I almost can't control my breathing or heart beats. "Come in," I'm finally able to say something. I step to the side to let him in.

"Where do you want the wine?" I didn't even notice that he had a bottle in his hands.

"Just follow me. Um, you'll have to forgive me." I walk to the kitchen, as he follows me.

"Why is that?" I grab the glasses from the counters and set them on the table.

"Well, I didn't have anything to cook. I had to order something." I point to the food. "It's not Jim's, but it's a local diner, and they're very good."

Hudson smiles at me. "Bacon cheeseburgers and onion rings, nice."

He pulls my seat out, and I sit down. He sits next to me. I open the wine and pour some into each of our glasses.

"You know I meant to ask you something the other day, but forgot," Hudson said.

"Oh, was that before I almost blinded you with my ponytail?" I mumble in embarrassment.

Hudson laughs. "Well, I will say that was a more memorable date, that's for sure. But seriously, what was your major in college?"

"I went to community college." I correct him.

"Still college, right?"

"Yea, I guess. Um, I wanted to be a nurse. I always wanted to help people." I smile at him.

"You know, I can see that from you." He bites into his burger and moans. "This is really good."

"They aren't bad. I eat there sometimes when I'm working late. So, how's work going? Working on any big projects that I will see soon in the skyline?" I look up at him brightly.

"No big projects. Work is just work." He shrugs uncomfortably. I got the impression he doesn't want to talk about work.

"What should I expect from your sister?" I change the subject. I can feel my hands shaking a little bit when I ask. "I mean, is she going to beat me up because I'm dating her big brother?"

"Not at all. She's like a girl version of me. She forgets her manners, sometimes, but there's really nothing to worry about. Just expect to have fun."

"I'm sort of nervous." I honestly admit. "I've never met family members before." I'm not sure why I said that, he's going to think I'm some prude.

"Don't be nervous, Ellie. If it'll make you feel better, we can come up with some sort of code word and all you have to do is say it. I'll come up with a way to get you out of there."

"Ha, my aunt used to do that too. It was always the same sentence."

"And what was that?"

"Kitty Cat. I would ask if I could have a kitty cat." I blush at the childish word. My aunt was polite, but sometimes she just wasn't in the mood to talk to everyone. She would give me a look and I knew to ask the question. Then she would excuse herself from the conversation.

"That's cute. How about this? If you get uncomfortable, take my hand and squeeze it really hard. Then I'll take care of the rest."

"That sounds like a plan." I blush at the thought of holding his hand again.

"If I may ask, have you always been a nervous person?"

"I'm more of an agoraphobic than anything. I was worse when I was younger. I hardly spoke when I was a child. Getting this job brought me out of my shell. I mean, I still get very nervous and shy, but it's much better."

"Wow, I can't imagine you being shyer than this."

I bite my lip and feel my cheeks flush. I need to change the subject. So, I start talking about work. I tell him about all the new clients that I've signed on, and that I will be spending more time in Portland.

"Hey, that's good for me, then." He grins at me.

"Oh, I guess traveling this far is a nuisance." I stand and take my plate to the counter.

"That's not what I meant. I actually like leaving the city. You're right about how peaceful it is out here." He places his plate on the counter as well.

It hits me. I don't know what else I'm supposed to do. Hudson is just standing there, looking out my kitchen window.

"Um, Hudson, may I be honest with you for a moment." I look down at my hands.

He takes a deep breath. "Of course you can."

I look up at him, and he looks sad. "Well," I clear my throat, "I'm not sure what to do next? I mean, did you want to watch a movie or go for a walk?"

"Oh." The look of relief comes over his face. He stands there for a moment and looks like he is thinking about something serious. "May I ask you a personal question? You don't have to answer if you don't want, but I'm curious."

I nod.

"Have you ever had a relationship before?"

"Do you mean a serious relationship?"

He nods.

I'm not sure if I should tell him the whole truth, but my aunt always told me to be honest no matter what. "I've never had a serious relationship."

"Have you ever dated?"

"A few times, but most guys just wanted something at the end of the date that I'm not willing to give." I clamp my mouth shut and mentally yell at myself. I can't believe I just said those words. Now, Hudson will know that I'm a virgin.

I can't look at him. I start to fiddle with the hem of my shirt. I can feel my inside shaking, and my cheeks are burning. The tears of embarrassment are creeping up, and I close my eyes hoping they don't fall.

"Hey," he says softly. I hear him come over to me, but I can't bring myself to look at him. He puts his finger under my chin and gently lifts my face. When I open my eyes, I look deep into his kind eyes. "I promise not to ask you anything that you're not willing to do."

He rubs the pad of his thumb over my lips. I want him to kiss me, except I'm unsure of how to do it. Hudson leans in and kisses my cheek.

"Thank you," I whisper when he pulls back.

"How about we watch a movie?" He suggests, giving me a small, sweet smile. "And I brought the movie."

"You did?" I look at him confused.

"Yep, it's in my truck. I'll be right back." He heads out to his truck.

I smile when he leaves the room. I feel relieved that Hudson didn't run away from me or make fun of me. Maybe he is different than other guys. I go into the living room.

"In sports related news Portland Vikings' Captain Hu-" The announcer on the news was talking as I flip on the TV, then switch to the DVD player. I sit down in the middle of the couch.

"Okay, here you go." He hands me a present.

"What's this?" I take the box gingerly.

"It's a gift and a guarantee that there will be more dates to come." He sits down next to me. "Open it."

I'm apprehensive as I rip the paper away, because I'm not sure what to expect. I gasp slightly when I see the contents. Then smile at Hudson. "Harry Potter movies?"

"Yep, the whole collection. However, you can't watch them without me. Deal?"

I nod, as I bite my lip again to hold back my gleaming smile. He takes the box from me, pulls out the first movie, and puts it in the player.

Nerves take over when he sits down. I'm not sure if I should hold his hand or just sit there. I wonder what Lacey would do. Knowing her, she would have sex on the kitchen table with him. When I look over at him he's leaning back with his head resting on his hand. His other arm is resting on the back of the couch behind me. He isn't pushing himself on me or taking control of the situation. I think he is waiting to see what I will do.

I count to ten before I make my first move. I lean down and slip off my heels. I scoot over to Hudson's side and tuck my feet under me. I fit perfectly into his side. I hear him chuckle, and he brings his arm down laying it on my thigh. His warm touch is soothing as we watch the movie.

The movie is as exciting as the book, except a few changes that were made. I stay next to Hudson the whole time, and I enjoy it. When the movie is over, I look up to see that Hudson fell asleep.

I don't want to wake him, but I'm not sure what I should do. I hate that he would have to drive home tired. What if he falls asleep at the wheel and gets hurt? I ease away from his side and notice that he doesn't move at all. I turn off the TV and grab a blanket from the hall closet. I gently lay it on him. I turn off all the lights except the kitchen, in case he does wake up.

I stare at him for a moment. His full lips are slightly parted. His eyelashes are long and spread out. He looks so peaceful.

I turn and head to my bedroom. I quietly shut my door, change my clothes, and go to bed with a smile on my face.

Chapter Nine

Hudson

I wake up with a horrible kink in my neck, a blanket over me, and slivers of sunlight peeking through the blinds on the window. Memories of last night and pieces of Harry Potter flash in my mind. I must have fallen asleep. Before I get up, I stretch my hands out in front of me, cracking my knuckles, and then stretch out my legs.

If I have to drive back home, I'm going to need some coffee. Please let Ellie drink coffee. The first thing my eyes see in the kitchen is the coffee maker. Yes! Now, I just have to find everything else. While I open her cabinets in my search, I think about last night. She's never had a serious relationship and based on what she said, she's still a virgin. Talk about pressure. I'm sure her anxiety issues have something to do with that as well. Shaking my head, I clear my mind. I don't want to think about that right now.

I've got the coffee started, and I'm leaning with my back against the counter, my arms crossed. At the sound of soft footsteps, I lift my head. Ellie squeals when she sees me, tugging her t-shirt down. She's wearing an oversized t-shirt that stops mid-thigh, and her hair is all over the place.

"Sorry!" Her cheeks are flaming red, but I can't stop eyeing her small, perfect frame. "I forgot you were here. I'll be right back." She swivels on her heels before she scurries back to her bedroom.

Now that she's gone, I can't help my chuckle. If I knew nothing about Ellie, I would wonder how in the hell she's still single, much less a virgin. She has the type of beauty that is reserved for those who take a second to stop and appreciate it. Once you do, it's hard not to see how beautiful she is.

Ellie returns, bringing me out of my thoughts, dressed in yoga pants, a t-shirt (with a bra this time), and her hair is thrown up into a messy bun. She avoids looking at me as she takes out the creamer and sugar for the coffee. It's probably because I'm looking at her like I want to have her for breakfast.

"Sorry," she mutters again when she comes to stand next to me, but facing the opposite direction.

"Don't be," I say, lightly bumping my hip with hers.

"Did you sleep well?" She asks as she pours coffee into each cup.

"Pretty much. Thank you." I take my cup before she can ask if I want anything else in it. When she scrunches her nose as her eyes follow the cup, I ask, "What?"

"You don't add anything at all?"

"Nope."

"That's gross."

I laugh. Ellie turns to rest her hip on her counter, watching me as we each take a sip. We stand there in silence, me looking at Ellie while she looks everywhere but me. After I have finished my cup, I sit it on the counter. Slowly, I move my hands to her hips. I hold them with just enough pressure that she knows they are there. Ellie clutches her cup to her chest and peeks her eyes up at me.

"Thanks for letting me sleep over."

"You're welcome," she starts as I take a small step towards her, just a breath and her coffee cup between us. Her fingers are pressed between my chest and her mug. "I didn't want you to drive home that late. That's not very safe."

I shake my head. "No, not at all."

My eyes drop to her lips when she licks them. This girl is going to kill me in a slow, deliciously tortuous death. My voice is low as I say, "I need to head home and I'm sure you have to get ready for work." I pause to drag my eyes up to briefly look into hers. "I'm going to kiss you before I go. Okay?"

Ellie nods. It's barely there, but she does indeed nod. My lips lift into a smile.

"Close your eyes," I order softly.

They flutter to a close as if she wasn't sure if she should do what I said or not. Her lips part slightly and she shudders out a breath. I lean down, hover for a second, and then press my lips against hers. Ellie leans further into me, chipping away at my resolve to give her a simple, sweet kiss. When her tongue gently runs over my mouth, it diminishes completely. I invite her inside and taste her. Ellie sighs into me as I kiss her harder. When my fingers ever so slightly dig into her hips, I know it's time for me to go. Ellie keeps her eyes closed when I pull away, so I whisper goodbye with a kiss on the cheek, and see myself out.

~ ~ ~

It's been two days since I've seen Ellie. Last night, I had a game, which we won, and today is the dinner with both Ellie and my sister. Since they live closer to Seattle than Portland, I'm driving up to meet them. I'm picking Ellie up first and we're going to see a movie before supper. Some time with me beforehand should relax her enough to make meeting my sister easier. We're both nervous because we don't know what's going to happen.

After parking my truck, I walk up the porch steps and knock on the front door. Ellie appears within seconds, a smile on her face.

"Hey," I greet, kissing her cheek.

"Hi, Hudson. I'm all ready if you are."

"Great. Let's go then." I hold my hand out, which she takes without hesitation. Once we're on our way, Ellie asks me about my day. "It was pretty good. Yours?"

She shrugs. "It was a day."

"You always say that, why?" I ask, curious.

"People experience highs and lows every day, so unless it's exceptionally good or really bad, then it was just a day. Seems more honest to me."

It makes sense. "Do you have anything in mind for the movie?"

"Something funny, I think. Does that sound good to you?"

I nod. We ride the rest of the way in silence. When we get to the theater, I buy our tickets, and we go ahead in to sit down. I hold Ellie's hand the entire time. She sneaks glances at me, but I pretend not to notice with the exception of a small smile. The movie is hilarious, and I've never seen Ellie laugh so much.

Whit is going to meet us at the restaurant in a few. On the drive there, I reach over to grab Ellie's hand and say, "Nervous?"

She laughs softly. "Just a little."

"It'll be fine, but if not, remember you can squeeze my hand."

Chapter Ten

Ellie

I was thankful that I was leaning on the counter when Hudson kissed me. When he left I just stood there, trying to process the fact that he did kiss me. He had told me he was going to be busy with work the next couple days and when he got back I would meet his sister.

I'm a nervous wreck when the day comes to meet her. From the moment he picks me up, until we walk into the restaurant, I'm praying that I don't pass out. A small, light brown hair girl waves her arm when we walk in. Hudson squeezes my hand, and we go into that direction.

"Hudsy!" The young girl hugs him. She's beautiful. Very small frame, with big chocolate brown eyes. She looks a lot like Hudson.

"Whitney, this is Ellie." Hudson steps to the side and puts his hand on the small of my back. I stick my hand out to her.

"Hello, Ellie. My brother has told me so much about you." She smiles brightly at me.

I smile. I can't speak yet. When she releases my hand Hudson pulls the chair out for me to sit down. He sits with his back to the people behind us.

"I figured a dark corner table was acceptable, Hudson," Whitney says, still smiling.

"It's fine." He gives her a tight smile back. A waiter comes over and takes our drink order.

"Ellie, my brother has told me a lot, but I would love to know more about you." Whitney's smile is sweet, but I feel like I'm getting ready to be interrogated.

"Sure," I'm finally able to say.

"Whitney, don't be rude." Hudson gives her a pointed look.

"Hudsy," she whines. "I'm never rude."

I sit there, feeling very uncomfortable. I don't want them to fight because of me.

"Ellie, what do you do for a living?" Whitney begins to ask.

"I'm a sales rep for a medical supply company."

"Are you in Portland a lot?"

"More now than before." I'm so thankful when the waiter puts my wine in front of me. I quickly take a big gulp trying to settle my nerves.

"Interesting. Do you have any hobbies?"

"Um, I like to read and run. I guess those are my hobbies." I hate that I sound so pathetic.

"My hobby is reality TV. I just can't get enough. Do you watch TV?" I see Hudson from corner of my eye, and his jaw is clenched.

"I don't watch much TV. I don't think I've seen a reality TV show either."

"Really?" Whitney pauses and sips on her wine. "You know my mom just read an interesting book. It was a New York Times bestseller, but I just can't remember the name of it. It was about a girl who travels time and saves the world from zombies."

"Oh, I just read that. It's called Traveling Girl. It's a really good book." It's the first time that I feel confident in the conversation.

"I think that's it. Hudson, have you read it?" Whitney teases him. Before Hudson could say anything the waiter takes our order. I gulp down some more wine. I know that she isn't done with me yet.

"You know, Ellie, our whole family just loves sports. You like any sports?"

"Um, no, I don't follow sports." I shake my head

"Really? Not even professional sports? I know that some of those players are quite hot," Whitney sings out.

"Whit, that isn't funny." Hudson looks pissed.

"Oh, big brother. I know how much you love...sports." She gives him a small smile.

I feel like I should be part of the joke, but I don't get it.

"How is school going, Whit?" Hudson asks. I get the impression that he wanted to change the subject quickly.

She goes into details about her classes and projects that she is working on. She sounds like a very busy girl.

"So, you're an architect too?" I ask gingerly.

"Um," she looks at Hudson before answering,"well, I'm studying to be one. I want to follow in the family footsteps."

"Your entire family is in the business?" I'm a little shocked that the entire family is all in the same profession.

"Well." Hudson shifts in his seat.

Whitney jumps in. "Well, some of us are on that career path. Our dad is retired, but our brother works for a big firm in Orlando."

"Wow, that's awesome."

Our food comes, and I'm thankful that we just have small talk about our food and service. Whitney and Hudson talk about their family and there is a slight pain in my heart. I wish I had that. I wish that I had family that I could gossip with, and they care about my well-being.

"You know, Ellie, I love your purse," Whitney comments.

"Oh, thanks." I blush. I don't want to tell her that it's just a knock-off because I'll never be able to purchase a real one.

"Are you ladies ready to go?" Hudson asks, paying the bill. I feel bad that he had to purchase mine too. He had already paid for the movie and the drive up here. I hate that he is spending all this money on me.

We all three stand to leave. We were almost to the door when someone yells Hudson's name. I turn to see a tall male come towards him. Panic seems to wash over Hudson's face.

"Hey, Ellie, how about we get some fresh air?" Whitney loops her arm with mine, and she pulls me towards the door.

"Um, did you know that guy?" I ask Whitney when we're outside.

"Hell, I have no clue. Hudsy seems to know everyone, though." She shrugs. "My brother really likes you. I can see it." Her smile deepens.

I drop my head and stare at the ground. I can feel the heat rising to my face. What do I say to that?

"Whit, let's get you to your car?" Hudson comes out to us.

"I'm right there." She points across the street. "I'll see you in a few weeks." She hugs her brother tightly. "Love you, Hudsy," she sings out to him.

He just shakes his head. "Love you too."

Whitney comes over to me. "I've really enjoyed tonight." I'm very surprised that she hugs me.

I gently hug her back. "Me too."

Hudson doesn't move until he makes sure she is in her car and drives away. It makes me smile to think how protective he is over her. He takes my hand and we walk down the street to his truck. The warm spring air is just a great addition to the wonderful night that I'm having with Hudson.

We get back into the truck and head back to my house. On the drive, we talk about dinner, Whitney, and just listen to the music. I tell Hudson that I was nervous, but she's a great girl. I can see how proud Hudson is of his sister and family.

When we get back to my house, it's late, and I know that Hudson must be tired. I've thought about him sleeping on my couch again. He opens the truck door for me and holds my hand as I slip out of the truck. He walks me up to the porch.

I turn around to him. "Hey, it's late. Why don't you come in for a nightcap and just...just stay here for the night?"

"Oh, Ellie, I'll be fine." He waves it off like it's no big deal.

"No, it's okay, Hudson. I would hate for you to be driving this late at night, anyway."

He looks at me for a moment. I know that he is thinking about it. "I'll sleep on the couch," he finally agrees.

I smile and open the door. I head for the kitchen, because a glass of wine is what I need to keep me calm while he is here. He takes off his jacket and puts it on the back of the chair. I hand him a glass. He sips it, as I slip off my heels.

"I'll be right back," I say. I go to my bedroom and change into my pajamas. When I come out of the bedroom, I have a pillow and blanket with me. Hudson is in the living room with his head in his hands.

"Hudson, you okay?" He looks up and his eyes go wide, looking me up and down.

"Yes."

I walk over to him. I lay the items at the end of the couch and sit next to him. "I hope you don't mind the couch," I say softly.

He leans over to me. "I don't mind." He kisses my cheek.

I bite my lip to hold back my joy from his lips. When I look at his eyes, I see them sparkle. I don't know what comes over me, but I kiss him.

I kiss him.

He moans as I open my mouth. I taste the sweetness of the wine as our tongues dance. He pushes on my lightly, and I follow his lead to lay on my back. Never have I had a man on top of me. I run my hand through his soft hair as he cradles himself between my legs. It's my turn to moan. Hudson tugs my shirt up, and I freeze. I pull away from his lips.

"Hudson, stop." I try to catch my breath.

"I'm sorry. I got carried away." He lays his forehead on mine. "Sorry." He sits up and pulls me with him.

"It's okay. I'm just not," I stop talking. How can I say the words? I'm twenty-four and a virgin.

"Hey, hey, it's my fault. I forgot my manners." He smiles. He cups my face, and then kisses my forehead. "Why don't you get some sleep?"

I nod, stand up, and head to my bedroom. When I shut my door, I lay my head on it. I'm such a fool. I'm an adult. A reasonable adult. On the other side of this door is a guy, who likes me, who respects me, and whom I trust.

I stand there for a minute thinking about what just happened between us. Before I can lose my nerve, I open the door, and go back into the living room. I see Hudson on the couch, without his shirt on. My breath catches when I see his chiseled abs and rock hard chest.

"Hudson," I say quietly.

He opens his eyes and looks at me. "Are you okay?"

I confidently walk over to him and hold out my hand. He sits up. I softly pull his arm, making him stand up. That's when I realize that he's in his boxers. His body is amazing.

"I'm...I'm not ready for sex, and I know you know that. But this couch is horrible. So, you can come sleep with me. In my bed, I mean."

"Ellie?"

"Don't forget your manners." I turn, and we head to my bedroom.
Chapter Eleven

Hudson

It's so quiet in Ellie's bedroom that the only noise we hear is each other's shallow breathing. Part of me feels like a letdown teenager, and the other part feels terrible for that and most importantly, for almost going further when Ellie isn't comfortable with that. It's so frustrating, but then again, that's just a sex-starved Hudson's way of thinking. It doesn't matter if she's going to drive me to my death with this, because I honestly don't mind.

"Hudson?" Ellie whispers, dragging me away from my thoughts. We're both laying on our backs, so I just turn my head as she does the same. "I meant to ask about the nickname your sister calls you by. Hudsy." There's a soft glow in the room seeping through the curtains because of the brightness of the moon, which allows me to see her smile.

"Ugh. I was hoping you wouldn't notice that."

Ellie turns on her side fully and giggles. "It's so cute."

"Not when Whit does it. The only one who calls me that and means it in an endearing way is my mother. Whit did it tonight to annoy me. If I tell you how I got it, do you promise not to laugh?" I lay on my side to face her, so I can give her my most serious facial expression.

"Promise."

Slowly, I take a long inhale as if what I'm about to tell her is extremely serious and not a laughing matter. "When I was young, my mother would run bubble baths for me. I loved taking them. Whenever I did though, I would have bubbles, or suds, all over the place and she would say, 'You've made the entire bathroom sudsy.' Somehow, I thought she said Hudsy and I kept saying it over and over again. Hudsy, Hudsy, Hudsy. Ever since, my mother has called me Hudsy and my siblings use it to pick on me."

Ellie bites her lip, trying to contain herself, but she busts out laughing anyway. "That's the cutest thing I've ever heard in my entire life." Her smile disappears until it's only a faint reminder. "Sorry for laughing."

"I'll give you a pass this time." I lean towards her, kiss her cheek, and add, "Goodnight, Ellie."

"Night, Hudson." She rolls away from me and after a moment, I close my eyes.

~ ~ ~

When I wake up in the morning to see Ellie's sweet, peaceful, sleeping face, I think about last night when a fan almost exposed me on the spot as well as how much I enjoy hanging out with Ellie, I almost wake her up to tell her right then my secret. But I can't right now. I could say that it's because my life, the traveling, the people, the game itself, would overwhelm Ellie, and I don't want to do that. I could say that I can't tell her because she said herself that she doesn't like the dynamics of professional sports.

Honestly, I can't tell her because I don't want to lose what we have right now. I'm being completely selfish, but I have a feeling if I tell Ellie about what I really do, the simpleness between us will disintegrate into nothingness. She doesn't even know that her not knowing has given me the chance at a normal relationship. There are no outrageous expectations on me that are tied in with hockey. I have to tell her eventually though. I'll wait until the perfect moment comes along.

I ease out of bed, look at the disheveled girl sleeping, and then quietly leave the room. I don't have time to stay for a bit this morning. After I've put my clothes on and leave a note by the coffee pot, I head back to Portland. Whitney doesn't have class until later today, so I call her on the drive to get the verdict.

"Hey, Hudson," she answers.

"Well?" That's all I say. I'm still a little pissed at her for bringing up sports, especially after I made it clear that I didn't want her to do that.

"I like her. She convinced me that she's clueless about your world. She's very sweet, but doesn't seem outgoing or anything." Whitney seems like she disapproves of Ellie, even though she likes her.

"She's a shy person," I defend.

"I know that. It works quite nicely for you, but I want to know when you plan on telling her."

"Don't say it like that."

"Like what?" She asks.

"Like I'm using her personality to my advantage. I'm not using her at all."

My sister is quiet for a moment before she says, "You never answered my question."

"Soon. Did you like her or not?" My words are clipped more than I intended.

"Hey, don't get ill with me. You, and you alone, got yourself into this mess. I wanted to meet her so I could give you advice. Do you want to hear what I think or not?" Whitney sure isn't one to be pushed around.

"Fine. Go ahead."

"Underneath her nervous tendency and that personality of hers, which I like, is an innocent girl. That much was clear to me. This is why I'm so worried about you and this corner you've put yourself in, Hudson. She's like the personification of innocence. How she made it this far in life, I don't know. Be careful with her, okay? She might be fragile underneath. As far as the whole kissing thing, you're going to have to be slower than slow and wait for her to make the move to let you know how to proceed. With caution," she adds.

"Well, thanks for your input, Whit. I really do appreciate it."

"You're welcome, Hudsy." I roll my eyes even though she can't see me. "I got to go. I'll talk to you soon. Love you."

"Love you too."

We hang up, and I toss my phone into the passenger seat. As my mind swirls too rapidly with all these thoughts my sister inserted, I decide that what I need tonight is to hang out with the guys. It's a busy hockey day with working out, practice, and training. In fact, the next few days are going to be busy with back to back games. Tonight, we're at home, but the next two are away. When I get home after today's activities, I stop and really take in my house.

Hockey touches every room in some way, whether it's equipment, pictures, or trophies. As long as I keep this from Ellie, I can't even bring her here. To my home. I sigh, shove it to the side, and take a nap before the game. It's just the thing I need to renew me for tonight. I don't notice a text from Ellie until I'm about to head out, but I send her a quick reply that I'm about to be busy with work.

~ ~ ~

Tonight's game was overloaded with energy and tension. We pulled through with a win, and now a load of us are at Jim's. Some of the younger guys went to a club down the street, but that wasn't the kind of mood I was in. Gerald and I are playing darts.

"Are you ready for your interview tomorrow, your Highness?" He grins.

"I nearly forgot to be honest." The league wants me to do an interview with one of the reporters on the network. We're a hot contender for the Cup this season, so as the season comes to an end, there's going to be more publicity around those teams entering the playoffs.

Gerald throws his dart and then looks at me. "You almost forgot? What have you been doing, man?"

He steps aside for my turn. Simply, as if it's not a big deal, I say, "I've been seeing this girl who knows nothing about hockey."

When I turn to look at him, his jaw is almost on the floor. "Why would you want to date a girl who doesn't know about hockey? How does she not know?"

"Just because it's ingrained in our life, doesn't mean it is in everyone else's. Hockey is our passion, not hers. That's all."

He nods and then asks with a smirk, "So what does she think about one of the league's most famous captains?"

"Will you quit that?" Gerald just laughs. "The point is between her and my sister getting on my case, I've been a little distracted."

Gerald's attention piques at the mention of my sister. "What's little Whitney King been doing to ya?"

"Nothing I can't handle."

Just then two girls walk up to us as our game of darts end. Gerald's smile nearly overtakes his face.

"You two play for the Portland Vikings, right?" The blonde closest to me asks. She's looking at me like I could fulfill her every fantasy if she plays her cards just right.

Gerald puts his arms over my shoulders. "Yes. Yes, we do, ladies. This here is our captain," he shakes me a little, "and I just wear a little A on my jersey. Are you fans?" Gerald loves this stuff. He eats it up like it's forbidden fruit.

"I am," the blonde says. "My friend is a newbie. We were at the game tonight and you two were exceptionally fabulous. It's so great to actually meet you guys."

Gerald leads us over to the bar, and I spend the next hour listening to these girls flirt with us. It's getting late. I have a busy day tomorrow, and I'm tired.

"It was really nice to meet you. I need to go though. Have fun with Gerald." I pay my tab and leave.

~ ~ ~

Ellie: Want to meet for lunch?

I barely talked to her yesterday, and I feel bad that I can't meet her today. I did do something to make up for it that she should have in about five minutes.

Me: Sorry, I'm out of town until Monday. :/

Ellie: Oh, okay.

Me: We'll have another movie night when I get back.

She takes a couple minutes to respond.

Ellie: Sounds perfect. :) Thank you for the flowers and chocolates!

I wanted to send her something to surprise her and let her know that I was thinking about her.

Me: You're welcome. Hope you like it.

Ellie: I love it. I better let you go...

Me: I'll call you when I get the chance, okay?

Ellie: Sounds good. Travel safely. :)

Chapter Twelve

Ellie

Lacey and I took the day off together. Jeffrey has been on my case making sure that I'm dressed appropriately for this dinner next month. Since I have nothing in my closet, I asked Lacey to go with me. She has great fashion sense.

She walks into my house yelling that she's ready to make me into a supermodel. I just roll my eyes at her.

"Wait a second, what are these?" She points to the large dozen of roses on my counter that Hudson sent me.

"Hudson sent them to me." I smile brightly looking at the bright red roses.

"Oh my God, did you have sex?" Lacey looks at me wide eyed.

"What? No, I didn't." Lacey knows that I'm still a virgin, but never really teased me about it.

"A guy doesn't send roses like that without a little nookie for it."

I blush and hang my head. "Well, he did sleep in my bed the other night, but the roses are because he's out of town for work the past couple days."

"Whoa, back up! Did you say he slept in your bed? And nothing happened?"

I nod my head. "He was a perfect gentleman."

"That's it." Lacey throws her arms up in the air. "I have to meet him."

I laugh at her. "Come on, let's go." Not answering her. I grab my purse, and we head to Portland.

The whole drive Lacey is nagging me to meet Hudson. I finally give in and tell her that I will talk to him about it. We head straight for downtown Portland where all the dress stores are. I took money out of my savings, but I still don't have a lot to spend. I'm hoping to find something that will work.

Shop after shop we look for the perfect dress for me. Nothing seems to work, though. It's either too long, too short, or just the wrong color. I'm exhausted, and I know Lacey is too. I follow Lacey into the next shop and hopefully the last one. I just want to find a nice dress that won't make me look a tramp. When we walk into the store, every dress is glittery and it smells like fresh flowers.

"Lacey," I whisper. I don't think I've ever been in a store this fancy before.

"I know we will find something for you in here." Lacey goes straight for the evening dresses.

I follow her while gazing at everything around me. Every color of the rainbow is in this store. Every possible material too. I look at the far back wall and see a hundred pair of shoes. On the left side is every accessory that you can imagine.

I hear Lacey gasp. "I found it." She rushes up to me, grabs my arm, and pushes me into a fitting room with a mass of material.

"Try that on," she orders.

I look down at the dark purple dress in my hands. I begin taking off my clothes to try on the dress. When I slip it on and zip it up, I stare at myself in the mirror. I can't believe it's me that I'm looking at. The deep purple dress stops a couple inches above my knees. It hugs my hips and breasts perfectly. One side has a complete sleeve, while the other is bare. Every time I move, it shimmers in the light.

"I need to see it," Lacey yells out, bringing me out of my trance. I open the door, and her mouth drops open. "Here," she shoves shoes at me, "put those on." I slip on the heels that match the dress perfectly. "Here," she clasps a bracelet on my bare arm, and then puts two clips in my hair. She spins me around to the large three-way mirror, where I can feel the tears building as I look at myself. I don't think I've ever felt so pretty.

"You have to get this dress." Lacey stands behind me.

"Is there anything I can help you ladies with?" An older lady comes up and asks.

"Um, how much is all of this?" I ask sheepishly.

"The dress, shoes, and accessories should be right around five thousand dollars."

My mouth drops and I can't even form a word. Five thousand dollars. That's insane, I could never afford this. I look in the mirror one more time, and my heart breaks. I feel fabulous in this dress, but I would have to sell a kidney to be able to wear it outside this store.

"Thanks, I'll just take it off." I tell the clerk. She smiles and turns back to the counter.

"What? No way, you're getting this." Lacey crosses her arms at me.

"Lace, this is five thousand dollars. I don't have it. I don't even have half of it."

"Fine, we'll just put it on my credit card, and you can pay me back."

"Are you insane? There is no way I'm letting you do that. Besides it would take me two years to pay it back. I don't see Jeffrey giving me a raise anytime soon." I turn away from her going back into the fitting room.

I very carefully take off the dress, shoes, and jewelry. As I'm removing the dress, a few tears fall. Why am I so upset about a stupid dress? I look at it again. The shining embellishments twinkle under the light. I touch the material one more time and leave. Lacey complains the whole way back to my house. I let her go on because there's no way I'm letting her pay for that outfit.

"I'll find something else." I tell her as she drops me off.

I go into my house and get ready to cook dinner. Hudson is supposed to be here soon. He just got back into town this morning, and we are going to watch the next movie in the collection. I'm still upset about the whole dress shopping that I don't even feel like cooking. I call a local pizza parlor and order a couple of pizzas. I'm not sure how long Hudson will be so I give him a quick call.

"How close are you?" I ask.

"I'm a few minutes away. Why?"

"Would you mind grabbing the pizzas? I don't feel like cooking. I just ordered them and they should be ready when you get there."

"No problem. I'll see you in a few."

When I hang up, I flop down on my couch. Why the heck am I so upset about a dress? I mean, it's a dress. I sit there sulking over some man made material and sequins, when I hear a knock on my door. I didn't even realize that I had sat there that long. I get up to let Hudson in.

"Hey." He leans in, kisses my cheek, and heads off to the kitchen with the pizzas. He isn't wearing a jacket, and his muscles are bulging through his t-shirt. He must be really working out more.

I follow him into the kitchen and grab a couple of plates. Hudson puts the pizzas on the counter, then heads to the fridge to grab a couple waters. It's nice that he feels so comfortable in my house.

"Hey, why the long face?" He sets the waters down and pulls me close to him. I lay my head on his chest, and wrap my arms around him. It's something that I don't normally do, but I feel safe in his arms.

"It's silly. It's really nothing." I try to keep the sadness out of my voice.

"Look at me," he gently orders. I look up at him. "What is it?"

I step out of his arms and lean against the counter. I run my fingers through my hair and take a deep breath. "I have this big company dinner next month, and I have to dress all fancy for it. So, today Lacey went with me into the city to help me find something."

"Did you find something? Something you could model for me?" He winks at me.

"Um, we were downtown at this little shop on Main Street, and I found the perfect dress. But I didn't get it." I look down at the floor.

"Why not? I thought if it's the perfect dream dress, then most girls have to have it." He chuckles.

"I couldn't afford it. Even with the money I took out of my savings account. It was five thousand dollars with everything included. Lacey even offered to buy it and I told her absolutely not." I look up at him, and he has a small smile on his face. "I guess it's silly, huh?" I feel the lump in my throat, and the tears welling up.

Hudson walks over to me and kisses my cheek. "I don't think it's silly at all. My sister once cried over a pair of shoes that broke. Trust me, I understand. Plus, I bet you were stunning in that dress."

I look into his beautiful eyes and see his sincerity. I felt better telling him, and I'm glad he didn't make fun of me. I stand up straighter, my lips almost touching his and softly kiss him. Then I kiss him again, this time a little harder. My heart speeds up as I open my mouth. He drives his tongue into my mouth, and I grip his neck tightly.

I can feel my body heat rising as he wraps his one arm around my waist, and the other holds the back of my neck. His hard body is pressing against me, and I don't feel like pushing him away. Hudson moves from my lips to my neck. I moan and arch my body to him.

Hudson stops. He moves his hands from me, placing them on either side of the counter. He looks deep into my eyes, as we both try to calm our breathing.

"Sorry, I was getting carried away." He gives me a small apologetic smile.

I think my hormones took over my logical thinking, because I didn't want him to say that he's sorry, I want him to kiss me. Instead of reading my mind, he heads over to the pizza and fixes a plate.

"Want to eat while we watch the movie?" He suggests.

I nod, as I fix myself a plate. We head into the living room, and he starts the second DVD of the series. We sit on the couch, eating, and watching the movie. We don't say anything because we're so engrossed in the movie. Just like the first one, I like the second.

"Hate to say this." Hudson stands. "I have to leave tonight. But." He reaches for my hand. I take it and he pulls me up. "I'll be back tomorrow night. Okay?"

I smile at him. "Perfect."

He leans in and kisses me. I'm enjoying the way his lips feel on mine. I walk him to the door and watch him get into his truck.

My heart is about to burst from the happiness I feel when I'm with Hudson.

~ ~ ~

I wake up with a big smile on my face. I can't forget about the kiss and my feelings every time I'm around Hudson. It makes me feel like I'm walking on air. My happy feeling ends when I'm at work, because Jeffrey keeps complaining about everything. I don't know how he can be so rude, but he is. Luckily, my day finally ends, and I need a glass of wine. Pulling into my driveway, I remember that Hudson will be here soon. I hear my phone alert me of a text.

Hudson: I'm bringing food tonight

Me: Okay

Hudson: I'll be there in fifteen. At a gas station right now

Me: door is unlocked, just come in

I cover my mouth to hold back my smile that is gleaming and get out of the car. I'm heading up to my porch, when I see a very large box propped up against my door. Carefully, I walk up to it and see my name. Who would be sending me a package? I unlock my door and pick it up. I drop my bag and keys and head to my bedroom with the package.

I unwrap the bow and lift the lid. I inhale loudly when I pull away the tissue paper. Neatly folded is the dress from the shop. Tears stream down my face as I see several boxes inside with it. I open one and find the matching shoes. The two little ones are the bracelet and the hair clips. I pull the dress out and a card falls from it. I lay the dress on the bed and pick up the card and read it:

Ellie,

A beautiful dress for a beautiful girl.

Love,

Hudson

Hudson? Hudson purchased my dress? I couldn't believe it. I cry harder. No one has ever gotten me anything like this. I keep looking between the card and the dress. The tears keep coming.

"I'm hoping those are happy tears."

I whip to see Hudson standing in my bedroom doorway. My gleefulness takes over my legs and I run to him. I leap into his arms, and he catches me easily.

"I need to buy you more presents, if this is my reward."

"Hudson, it's...it's," I can't even speak as I cling to his neck. I sob harder.

"Hey, hey, calm down, baby. It's fine." He soothes me. He sets my feet back on the ground. I step back from his arms.

"Hudson, thank you. I'll pay you back."

"Don't you dare. I love that you love it, and you're welcome." He leans down and softly kisses my lips. When he pulls away, he smiles. "How about some dinner, beautiful?" He winks and pulls me towards the kitchen.

Chapter Thirteen

Hudson

"I hope you don't mind, but the food I brought is for me to cook," I say as I start pulling groceries out of the bags. Ellie is sitting on the counter, peeking into some of the bags.

"Of course not. Is there anything I can help you with?"

"You just sit there and look pretty." I grin when her cheeks turn pink.

"Do you even know where the pots and pans are?" She asks with a soft laugh.

I shake my head. "Nope, but I'll find them." I'm going to fix chicken with a creamy sauce, mashed potatoes, and asparagus. Easy peasy. While I get to work and Ellie watches me from her seat on the counter, I can't help but think about her reaction to the dress and wonder what else she wants that I could give her. It wasn't that difficult to get the dress. She had already told me where it was and how much it all cost. All I did was ask the women working there if they remember her and everything she tried on. That one woman in particular has an excellent memory with how quickly she recalled everything.

Once the food gets to cooking, Ellie hops down and walks over to me. She bumps my shoulder, looks down at the stove, and says, "Are you sure you don't need any help? I feel like I should be helping." Ellie glances up at me. She looks too perfect, so I lean down a little to kiss her forehead.

"Are you questioning my cooking capabilities?" I tease.

"Well, I haven't ever seen you cook." She smiles slightly.

"I've never seen you cook either." I raise a brow at her, and she laughs.

"Good point."

Even though I told her she didn't have to, she reaches for a utensil and pokes at the chicken. I step to the side so we're both able to stand in front of the stove. If she absolutely wants to help, then of course she can. We quietly cook dinner together with little touches here and there. Ellie grabs the plates while I finish up and turn everything off.

A few minutes after we've sat down at her table and have begun to eat, Ellie turns in her seat towards me a little.

"There's something I want to ask you."

"What's that?" I ask.

"Lacey wants to meet you. She's been bugging me about it, and I told her I would ask."

"Um," I start, but then stop before I answer. What if I meet her and she recognizes me? I haven't figured out how I'm going to tell her yet and if that happens, I can't stop her best friend from telling her.

"You don't have to if you don't want to. It's fine," Ellie adds hastily.

Here's to hoping that since Ellie has mentioned me to her already, she doesn't know anything either. "No, it's okay. I'd love to meet her. Just let me know when you're thinking, so I can make sure it's not a work day."

"Really? Are you sure?" When I nod, Ellie grins, leans over, and quickly kisses me. "Thanks, Hudson."

"Any time."

She then dives into talking about her work and her boss, who sounds like an ass. She briefly talks about the dinner she has to go to and her eyes light up. Ellie can't wait to wear that dress and I can't wait to see her in it. After dinner, we clean up the kitchen together. I can't help but notice how relaxed Ellie seems tonight. She takes my hand, leading me out to her back porch, where it has started to rain.

There's a two person rocking chair and Ellie sits down, bringing me to sit next to her. We listen to the drops of rain hitting the various objects, making a different sound for each one to create one overall noise.

"This is my favorite thing about this place. I love to sit on the porch," Ellie says, resting her chin on my shoulder as she looks at me.

"Really? So if you're not in a good mood, I should make you sit out here with me so you will feel better?"

She smiles and nods. "Mhm. Thank you so much for the dress and everything. I still can't believe you did that."

Angling myself towards her better, I kiss her softly and rest my forehead against hers. "It was my pleasure, Ellie."

Her eyes search mine for a moment. I catch myself wondering what she's thinking, what does she see, and what she's searching for? Before she can say anything, I push her hair behind her ear, my hand staying tangled in her hair at the base of her neck and mumble, "You're gorgeous."

My eyes keep jumping between her mouth and her eyes.

Faintly, Ellie says, "What are you waiting for?" The corner of her mouth lifts a little into a smile.

"You," I answer before pressing my lips to hers.

Ellie's tongue quickly finds mine causing me to groan a little. To be more comfortable, I grab her hips, lift her, and sit her in my lap, so she's straddling me. Her hands loosely wrap around my neck, and I pull away to kiss her cheek. I'm about to make sure she's still okay, but Ellie's lips find mine before I can ask.

Her fingers run into my hair as I taste her. Then I kiss my way along her jaw and down her neck. Her head tilts backwards, her eyes closed, lost in the heat of our bodies. I run my nose along her collarbone. To ground myself, I grab her thighs and then find her mouth again, sucking her tongue between my lips. Ellie starts to kiss me harder as she leans into me. My hands seem to have a mind of their own as they travel up her thighs to her hips around to her back, slipping underneath her shirt.

It takes everything within me to keep them at her lower back. Ellie's hands, however, show no restraint as they move away from my neck. Her fingers glide down my arms to my elbows, back up and then down my chest, stopping midway before repeating the process. Just when I'm about to explode with the need to have her, Ellie pulls away.

She bites her lower lip as she tries to slow down her breathing. Her eyes snap to where her hands are low on my stomach before she looks back at me, a smile playing on perfect, just-kissed lips.

"Sorry," she breathes, placing her hands on my shoulders. "I forgot my manners."

I grin. "Yes, you did."

The wind shifts causing the rain to start blowing on us. Ellie stands, takes my hand, and says, "C'mon. Let's go back inside. Do you want some water?"

"Yes, thank you."

While she's opening the fridge and getting the bottled water, she asks, "There's one more thing I want to ask you." When she hands me the bottle, she adds, "Would you like to be my date for the dinner?"

"When is it?"

Her eyes squint as she thinks. "The 10th of next month, I think."

The date rings a bell and if I'm not mistaken, there's a fundraiser I'm attending that night. "I wish I could, but there's something with work I have to go to that night and there's no way I can cancel. I'm sorry."

"It's okay, Hudson. I understand. I figured if you were my date, then you could see me in the dress."

"Since I can't, why don't you go put it on right now?"

Her eyebrows shoot up. "Now?" She asks, her voice a little high as if it suddenly scares her.

"Yes, now. I want to see how stunning you look in it. Please, Ellie? Before I have to go home?"

She seems to think about it and then says, "If I put it on, will you stay the night? It is a bit late and it's raining too. Plus, I want you to stay." That last sentence comes out in a whisper. "Unless you really have to go," she adds.

Shaking my head, I tell her, "No, I can stay."

Ellie smiles, kisses my cheek, and disappears into her bedroom. I didn't even have to tell her to go try on the dress. I wait in the living room on the couch, checking my phone for any messages or missed calls. There's a voicemail from my mother, so I listen to it real quick.

"Hey, Hudsy. It's Mom. I hadn't heard from you yet. Give-"

I pull my phone away from my ear when Ellie steps into the living room, the rest of the message still playing.

"Wow," I manage to say as I stand.

"Do you like it?" She turns in a circle, so I can see her from every angle. That dress was made for her, fitting her body perfectly, the purple bringing out her brown eyes.

Swallowing hard, I stare at her for a second longer. "I love it. You look spectacular, Ellie."

Her smile widens, and she twirls again. "Thank you," she repeats, walking over to hug me.

"You are so, so welcome," I tell her. Pulling away so I can look at her again, all I can manage to say once more is, "Wow."

Ellie's cheeks flush. "I should go take it off before I mess it up or something."

She turns and goes back into her bedroom with me so close to asking if she needs any help. Instead, I sit down on the couch and listen to the rest of my mother's message before Ellie returns. This time, when we go to sleep, Ellie snuggles up to me. Smiling as I fall asleep, I know that she's beginning to feel more comfortable and relaxed around me and less nervous.

~ ~ ~

It's early afternoon when I get enough free time to return my mother's call. I'm alone, grabbing a bite to eat at a local restaurant. She answers quickly as if she was waiting by the phone for my call.

"Hudsy, I was starting to worry," she says.

"I've been busy, sorry." We go through the formalities before I sigh.

"What is it?" She asks, concerned.

I begin to tell her about Ellie, how we met, what she does, and such. "But there's a problem that I basically created. Mom, I was tired of girls wanting me because of my job, the money, the stereotypes, everything."

"I don't like where this is going," she interrupts quietly.

"Ellie doesn't follow sports at all, so she doesn't know who I am. Our relationship has been completely normal and balanced. I knew that if I told her, everything would change. Not to mention that she thinks we're overpaid and misuse the spotlight we are given. So, I let her assume that I'm an architect and I know I have to tell her, but I don't know how."

"Hudson," my mother sighs. "If you're waiting for the perfect moment, it's never going to come. You shouldn't have let her think that about your job. The longer you wait the worst it will be. Hockey is a part of you, Hudson. You shouldn't hide that. I'm not going to tell you what you should have done because that part has already happened and there's nothing we can do to change it. I think you need to remember what you love most about hockey, introduce it to her, and share that part of you with her. If she cares for you, she will eventually be able to forgive you. However, you need to tell Ellie and soon before she finds out from someone other than you."

I run my hand through my hair. "She's going to hate me."

"Probably for a little while, yes. If it's meant to be, it will be. I love you, Hudsy, and if I can help in anyway, just call me."

"Thanks, Mom. I love you too."

Chapter Fourteen

Ellie

We decide to have lunch together, and she hasn't said anything since I told her that Hudson bought my dress. Lacey just sips on her glass of water.

"What's wrong, Lace?" I ask her.

She dramatically huffs, sitting her glass of water down. "I have to sleep with a guy just to get dinner. But this guy buys you a designer dress and hasn't even copped a feel from you yet. I mean, he's like Prince-Freakin-Charming." She picks up her fork and pokes at her food.

I'm not sure what to say. Is Lacey upset because Hudson got the dress for me? I don't want her to be upset. She's my best friend. "I didn't tell you to have you mad at me." I look down at the food on my plate.

"What? I'm not mad, Els. Why would you think that?"

"Because of what you just said."

She rolls her eye. "Ellie, come on, you know me way better than that. I love you. I'm actually very glad that you found someone that likes you for you. Besides, if anyone deserves to be spoiled, it's you. Does he have a brother? Or cousin? Someone you could hook me up with?" She smiles at me.

I shake my head. "Um, I talked to Hudson about meeting you. He texted me this morning and said that we could do it next week?"

"You know I'll make time to meet Prince-Freakin-Charming." She smiles at me.

I giggle at her. As we finish our lunch, we talk about some mutual clients that we have and the ins and outs of our jobs.

"So, what are you doing tonight?" Lacey asks.

"Hudson is coming over, since he is going to be gone pretty much the rest of this week."

"Where is he going?"

"Out of town for work."

"He seems to travel a lot to be an architect."

I shrug. I have no clue how much an architect travels.

"What kind of project is he working on?"

"I don't know."

Lacey just shakes her head at me. I know that she cares about stuff like that, but I just care about being with Hudson.

"I meant to ask you what his place is like. Where does he live in Portland?"

"I've never been to his place. I don't know where he lives."

She looks confused. "You've never been to his place."

I shake my head. "He likes mine, because it's not in the city."

Lacey sits silent for a moment, lost in thought. "I think he's married," she finally states.

"What?" I yell so loud that people actually turn and look at me. 'What?" I say a little bit softer.

"Think about it: he 'travels' a lot, you don't go to his place, and he never takes you out. He has to be married."

"Hang on," I put my elbow on the table and rub my head, "we've gone out in public. I went to dinner with his sister."

"Yeah, in Seattle," she clarifies.

I stare at her, and my mind begins to wonder. Could she be right? Is Hudson married? Lacey's right. We don't go out in Portland. He's always coming to me. I don't know anything about his travels, and he hardly talks about work.

"Wait," I look at Lacey, leaning in closer, "don't men have affairs to have sex? I'm not giving him that. You know that."

"Well, I don't know, but you need to get more information before your sugar daddy's crazy-ass wife knocks on your door."

"He's not my 'sugar daddy.'" I didn't have the heart to tell her that I'm not even sure what that means.

She gives me a pointed look. "Well, he's spoiling you, therefore he's a sugar daddy." She quickly looks at her watch. "I've got to go. Text me the date of this dinner, so I can kick his married ass."

"Five minutes ago you called him Prince Charming," I remind her.

"Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde were the same person." She kisses my cheek, throws money on the table, and races out the door.

I sit there for a moment thinking about everything that Lacey said. I can't believe that Hudson would be married. However, Lacey makes a valid point. I put some money on the table and head out the door. I have several clients to follow-up with today, so I spend most of the afternoon in my car traveling.

I start thinking more and more about Hudson and the possibility of him being married. I don't want it to be true. I can't even imagine that it is. Every thought keeps running through my head about this situation. It's starting to consume me, and I decide that I need to talk to him. On my last stop of the day, I sit in the doctor's parking lot and call him.

"Hey beautiful, what ya calling for?" His voice sounds surprised. I can hear a lot of noise around him.

"Are you at work?"

"Nope, just out with some friends. What's up?"

I don't know how to bring this up. Do I say it on the phone? He's with his friends and probably doesn't want to say anything. This might be better in person.

"Um, I was just wondering if you were still coming for dinner tonight?"

"Yep, I'm leaving in just a few. Why?"

"Well, I'm not too far from Portland. I could come to your place?" I don't know why I said it. Maybe to hear his reaction?

"That's not going to work for me. I'll just see you at your place. Okay?"

Oh my God, he is married. I lay my head on my steering wheel on the verge of banging my head. I'm so stupid. I've been seeing this guy for almost two months, and I didn't even realize that he's married.

"Ellie? Are you still there?"

"What?" I come back to the conversation.

"I said I'll see you in about an hour, okay?"

"Okay." I hang up quickly, before anything else can be said. I pull out of the parking lot and head home. The tears are on the brim of my eyes, ready to fall.

The moment I get in my house, I head straight for the wine bottle. I need to calm myself before I confront Hudson. I go and sit on my back porch, gulping my wine. Looking out my back porch and hearing the sounds of nature is what I need to relax. However, the longer I sit there, the more upset I become. I don't feel like Hudson is married, but the signs are there. I just can't believe it though. He doesn't seem like the type. What if I confront him and he just leaves?

"Ellie!" I hear Hudson call from the kitchen. I stand up and head his way. "You enjoying the nice evening?" He smiles at me.

"Hudson," I shift uncomfortably, "we need to talk about something very important that I think you're hiding from me."

Shock washes over his face. I can see his eyes widen. My heart races as I open my mouth, "Why haven't I been to your apartment yet?"

He looks confused for a moment. "It's basically just a bachelor pad, not that great, and I thought you would be more comfortable here at your place. It's more homey here anyway."

"Then why is it that we never go out to dinner? The one time it happened was in Seattle and we were with your sister."

"We just never plan to. Ellie, if you want me to take you out, I can. There are plenty of places to go between here and Seattle." He gives me a small smile.

"Why not Portland? Why can't we go to Portland?" I push.

"We're closer to Seattle. It makes more sense to go there, doesn't it?"

"I guess, but it seems like you're hiding something, and I think I've figured it out. With all this 'traveling' and us never going out. I know the truth."

"Ellie, we can go out more if you want and my traveling is for work because, well, I am-"

"You're married," I cut him off. My heart is racing thinking about him being married and using me.

"Married?" Shock and confusion comes over his face. "What? No. Ellie, I'm not married. I-"

"You travel all the time, it's hard to get a hold of you sometimes, you never take me out, it all adds up." I cross my arms, trying to protect myself from the fact of this revelation.

"No, it doesn't." He shakes his head. "It adds up to me being a workaholic. I told you the day we met that I wasn't married because I work too much. I promise you, I'm not married."

"You're not married? You swear." I point my finger at him. I trust Hudson and if he gives me his word, I'll believe him.

"I swear. I'm not currently married, I've never been married, and I'm not engaged. There's only you, Ellie. I promise." He steps closer to me, wrapping his arms around me.

"I was talking to Lacey and everything started to make sense. I'm sorry. I just thought that you were married," I say into his chest.

"It's okay. I understand." He smooths my hair.

"I was so upset thinking you were married, that I didn't even cook anything." I look up at him.

He gives me a sideways grin and kisses my forehead. "I'm not really all that hungry, but how about we start the movie, and if we're hungry afterwards, we go grab something?"

I fake a shocked gasp and step out of his arms. "In public?"

He throws his head back and laughs. "Yes, in public." He holds out his hand, and we go into the living room. I sit in my usual spot, as he puts the movie in. When he sits on the couch, I automatically curl up to him.

As the movie starts, I stare at the TV screen, not really watching it. I start to think about the past two months. We've been seeing each other for two months. In that time, I've accused him of being married, almost pepper sprayed him, whipped him in the face with my hair, and he's still here.

I start to think about the night on the porch. The way I felt kissing him, straddling his lap. I had kissed a few guys in my past, but none of them made my knees weak like Hudson does. I look up at him, and I realize that his scruff is becoming thicker.

"Are you growing a beard?" I inquire.

"Um, yeah."

I sit up and touch his face, feeling the softness of his face. "I like it."

He smiles, takes my hand, and kisses the inside of my wrist. The tenderness of his lips makes my heart race. He turns back to the TV, but I can't stop looking at him.

"Hudson," I say softly.

He turns to me. "Yes?"

I touch his face and pull his lips to me. I've never been so bold with anyone, ever. He moans as I push my tongue into his mouth. I pull him closer to me as I lay back. He cradles himself between my legs. My skirt hikes up as I open my legs for him. I run my hands through his soft hair and rest them on his neck. His fingertips softly trace my thigh, and my body shivers.

'Hudson." I break our kiss.

"Sorry, I got carried away." He goes to pull away from me, but I stop him.

I let my trust and hormones take over for me because I know Hudson won't hurt me. "Hudson, don't stop."

"What?"

"Don't stop."

"Ellie." He closes his eyes for a moment. When he opens them, he is searching my face. "I need to ask you one thing, and it's personal." I nod. "How far have you gone with a guy?"

I feel my face heat up. "Not very far. But for the first time ever, I trust someone and I know that you wouldn't hurt me. I know that you're not after just one thing."

"I told you that I would never ask you to do anything that you didn't want to do."

I thought for a moment and courage built up in me. "How about we make a deal?"

"A deal?" He looks perplexed.

I nod. "We continue, as far as it goes, until I say stop."

"Ellie, I'm not letting you lose your virginity on a couch. I want it to be special for you."

I scoff at him. "What are you going to do take me to Paris?"

"If that's what you want."

When I look in his eyes, I think that he might really do that, but I know that is just a crazy dream. It just makes my insides flutter thinking that he would do that for me.

"Do we have a deal?" I ask, biting my lip.

He leans in and whispers in my ear. "How about a compromise? How about I just show you how much I care about you without going all the way?" His scruff tickles my face as I nod. "But not on a couch."

He stands, pulling me with him. He takes my hand and heads to the bedroom. He spins me, cupping my face. He gives me a sexy smirk and cocks one eyebrow. He kisses me and guides me towards the bed. I can feel myself shaking when my knees hit the bed.

"Ellie, I won't hurt you. I promise. I'll never hurt you." I nod. He leans in, whispering in my ear. "Trust me."

He takes a step back, pulling off his t-shirt. I'm trying to keep my jaw from dropping as I stare at his beautifully sculpted chest. He undid his belt, and I stop breathing. He steps back to me.

"Look at me." I look into his beautiful, loving eyes. "Trust me." He lightly kisses my lips.

I can't move. I'm paralyzed, not in fear, but in lust. I'm holding myself in place so that I don't do something wrong. I'm not even sure if I should look anywhere, except in his eyes. He drops his pants, and my mouth goes dry.

"Ellie, we're not having sex. I promise."

"I trust you," I whisper.

"If you want me to stop, I will."

I shake my head. My body is humming for him. He lightly caresses my cheek and kisses me. When he stops, I feel like there is no air in the room. He begins to unbutton my blouse, and my breasts are aching for his touch. I bite my lip as he pushes the blouse off my shoulders letting it fall. His lust filled eyes stare at me as he pulls my skirt down.

I've never been this naked in front of anyone, especially a man. I'm shaking with anticipation of what he is going to next. He smiles as if he is about attack me, but I know that he wouldn't. His lips cover mine. I moan with the pleasure from his soft lips on mine. He picks me up, fireman style, and lays me in the center of the bed. He props himself above me, and I feel his hardness between my legs. The tightening in my chest increases as I think of how close I am to him. I keep telling myself to trust him, and that he won't go that far.

He leaves my mouth and lies on his side next to me. He begins to kiss my neck down to my breasts. He pulls my bra down, and I quickly inhale as the shot of electricity goes through my veins when he gently sucks on my nipple. My stomach flutters as I feel his fingertips trail down to the top of my thong. I want him to touch me, and I silently pray that he does. I moan his name as he switches to my other breast and teases me over my thong.

I let go of all logic. I let my body and hormones take over. I grip his neck with one hand and hold on to the comforter with the other. I rock my hips, saying his name over and over. He releases my breast and comes back to my mouth. My legs open on their own accord as he moves my underwear to the side. He gently touches me. My body jerks as he rubs me. He slowly enters a finger inside of me. I break the kiss and arch my back. I moan loudly.

"Just relax," he says in my ear. "Enjoy it."

His fingers work me, and I feel my body tightening around him.

"Ellie, you feel so good." His words send a small thrill through me.

I move my hand down his back to the top of his waistband. My hormones have officially taken over. I gently drag my nails to the front of him. I'm not sure if he wants me to do this, or if I'm even going to do it right, but I do. My confidence levels rise as I take him in hand.

"Oh my God, Ellie," he moans working on me faster.

I begin to go at the same pace as him. He says my name again and that he won't last long. Within a couple of moments, I yell his name, and my body is shaking. Hudson releases the same time, saying my name over and over. I can't believe what just happened. I look at Hudson as he stares at me. I'm not sure what to say. I've never had so many emotions races through me. I feel beautiful, confident, content, and unsure of what is going to happen next.

"I told you to trust me." He kisses me, taking away all the uncertainty.

Chapter Fifteen

Hudson

What a night. Starting with Ellie accusing me of being married, me attempting to tell her about my job, but failing, and then what we just did. Ellie is extraordinary, in all aspects. I still can't believe everything that's happened today. A little while later, we're dressed and laying in bed facing one another.

"Tell me about your childhood and your aunt," I say softly. She's never really talked about it, and I want to know everything about her.

Ellie seems surprised, but she cuddles up to me and begins to tell me about it. "My aunt was the best person I've ever known. She raised me with no complaints. She homeschooled me and she was my best friend. We did a lot of stuff outside. I think that's why I like nature so much. She had a large flower bed in our backyard, and we were always working in it together. She would buy me books, and we would read until late into the night. She wasn't a big TV watcher either. She didn't have a mean bone in her body."

"She seems like she was an amazing person," I tell her once she's done. It seems like once her parents died, Ellie stuck close to her aunt, which makes sense after losing them at such a young age.

"She was. I still miss her," she whispers.

I hug her to me, and as she drifts to sleep, I decide once and for all that I'll tell her the day after her company dinner. If I tell her before then, and she reacts as badly as my mother and sister think she will, she's going to hate that dress. It'll ruin her wearing it that night, and I don't want to take that away from her. I promise myself that no matter how crazy it gets with the playoffs starting, I will tell her. I'll do like my mother said. I'll take her to the rink, put skates on her feet, a stick in her hands, and show her one of the most important parts of me. The plan is already in place. I just have to wait to make it happen.

~ ~ ~

"Sorry, Hudson. She's always late. I should have told her to be here an hour beforehand and she would have made it here on time," Ellie says apologetically.

Tonight is the dinner with her best friend, Lacey, and we've been waiting thirty minutes already at Ellie's kitchen table. She seems a little nervous, but so am I. My leg is bouncing furiously at the chance that Lacey will recognize me.

"It's fine," I tell her. Maybe she will cancel and I can spend the evening alone with Ellie.

Just then, Ellie's front door opens and a girl walks in. "Alright, I know I'm late, don't start. I'm ready to meet Prince Charm-holy shit!"

Recognition is all over her face. Holy shit is right.

"Lacey, don't be rude," Ellie chides.

I stand, swallow hard, and hope like hell she doesn't say anything. With my hand outstretched, I say, "Hi, I'm Hudson. It's nice to meet you, Lacey."

Her mouth is hanging open. Slowly, her hand lifts and grips mine, squeezing tightly. "Um, yeah, Mr. Architect, nice to meet you." She lets go of my hand and turns. "Ellie, it's such a nice day, why don't we eat on the back porch? Hudson, do you mind helping me get the dessert? I left it in my car."

"Of course." I follow her outside, but as soon as we're out of earshot, she swivels to face me.

"Are kidding me? You're no damn architect. You're Hudson King from the Portland Vikings! What the hell are you doing?" Lacey is furious, her hand gesturing as she talks.

"I know it looks bad, please don't say anything to her. I'm going to tell her," I plead as she stalks to her car, opens the door, and then turns back to face me.

"That's my best friend, and in case you haven't noticed, she's an amazing person. I'm not gonna stand here and watch you break her heart. I don't care who you are." She gives me a death glare. "Why are lying to her anyway?"

I sigh. "Long story short, I was thrilled that she didn't know who I was at first. I was a normal guy to her. Every time I've tried telling her, she either interrupts me or says something about how she doesn't like sports. I tried telling her the other day, but someone," I point my own glare at her, "convinced her that my secret was that I am married."

"Okay, my mistake thinking you were married," she puts her hands up, like she's surrendering, "but look at it from my point of view. You were gone all the time, and no architect travels that much. How the hell was I supposed to know you were traveling because you're in the middle of playoff season?"

"Just please don't tell her. I'm going to tell her soon. Please," I beg.

"You tell her soon or so help me God. I will break your knees with your damn hockey stick. Ellie is nothing but pure gold. No one has ever betrayed her. If you haven't noticed, she has lived a sheltered life and is just now truly coming out of her shell." She shakes her head and mumbles, "I can't believe the first guy that is supposed to care for her is a damn liar."

"Is everything okay?" Ellie asks from the front porch.

"Yeah," Lacey calls back. "Turns out I forgot the dessert. Sorry, Ellie." She slams her door with another angry look at me.

We head back inside, and I can't get Lacey's words out of my head. Nothing she said is news to me, but the dread rises within me. She's right. I've betrayed Ellie, and it's going to kill her when she finds out. Sitting on the back porch, Ellie gives me a worried look, so I gently squeeze her hand and smile to let her know that things are fine.

"You know, Hudson, when I told Lacey about you, she recognized your name. She must have seen your work before."

"Oh yeah?" I glance at Lacey. Here comes the test.

"I must have been thinking of a different Hudson King," Lacey shrugs, like it doesn't matter anymore. "I think there's a figure skater from Nova Scotia that has the same name." She wears a small smile.

I have to resist glaring at her as Ellie laughs. I want to say that I'm not a figure skater, I'm a hockey player, but that's not happening.

Ellie looks at me with her head tilted. "I can't picture you in clothes like that."

"Oh, I can picture him in a uniform," Lacey adds.

Just kill me now. To get conversation away from this deadly line she insists to walk on, I ask Lacey about how she met Ellie.

"We met at a seminar. Sweet Ellie here kept me awake the whole time. Yep, that's our Ellie. Caring, sweet, kindhearted, you know just an honest person. It's so sad that world has so many dishonest people in it. Oh well, what are you going to do? I mean, tell the truth, it would just be easier." Lacey casually looks my way.

I drop my head, running my hand over my face. I don't think I can do this. I can't sit here for the rest of dinner with Lacey taunting me. I told her that I would tell Ellie and I'm going to. Why can't that be enough for now? She doesn't have to put me through this.

"Um, am I missing something?" Ellie asks, obviously confused.

"Oh, Ellie. I'm sorry. I'm being rude, and I don't mean to be. I have had a really long and complicated day. I apologize, Hudson. I don't mean it. Let's just enjoy this great food and talk about something interesting."

Ellie seems to accept this, but now I'm stressed out and ready to go home. The weight of my omission is too heavy to bear. I listen as they talk, not really absorbing anything they're saying. Ellie's fingers brush my arm to snap me out of my thoughts. She's looking at me expectantly.

"What?" I ask.

"Is everything okay?" She repeats softly with concern.

"I'm sorry. I'm not feeling all that great. I think I'm going to go home." I scoot my chair back and stand, placing a hand on her shoulder. "I'll see you in a few days, okay?"

Ellie nods. "Just leave your plate. I'll get it. I hope you feel better, Hudson."

"Thank you." I kiss her cheek, turn to Lacey and tell her it was nice meeting her, and then I get the hell away from them as fast as possible.

The more I think about it, the sicker I feel. All I can think about is the look on Ellie's face when I tell her that I'm not an architect like she thinks I am. The longer I think about it, the worse it gets. Finally, I can't take it anymore, pull off on the side of the road and call my mother.

"Hudsy," she answers. "How are you?"

"Terrible, Mom." For like the fifth time, I run my hand over my face as if I'll wipe away all of my stress.

"Oh, no. You told her?"

"Ha, not yet. I'm going to tell her in a couple of days. I know I have to, but it's going to destroy her and kill me in the process. The plan is to do like you said and show her what I love about it. But won't that seem like I'm...hell, I don't know," I finish frustrated that I can't seem to explain myself clearly.

"Take a deep breath, Hudson." She waits until I do so. "Remember what I told you, if it's meant to be, it will be. It might take a while, but it'll happen. Just be honest and sincere with her. Everything else will fall into its rightful place."

"I sure hope so."

Chapter Sixteen

Ellie

I watch Hudson walk away from me, and I've never seen him look so upset before. I turn to Lacey and stare at her.

"What?" She scrunches her eyebrows at me.

"What the heck happened? I thought this was going to be a good night. What did you say to him?"

"You assume that it's my fault that Prince Charming didn't feel well and left?" She picks up her plate and heads into the house. I pick up our plates and follow her.

"Lacey, what is going on? Seriously. You two were talking, alone, for a while out front. What is it?" When I walked out to them, they looked like they were arguing. Lacey puts her plate on the counter with her back to me. "Lacey, please?" I plead quietly.

She finally turns to me. "Okay, I may have told him that if he hurts you, I'll physically hurt him."

"Lacey!" I yell at her. "Why would you do that?"

She crosses her arms and steps closer to me. "You're my best friend. I love you, and I'm looking out for you. I always will."

"I appreciate that, I do. However, I trust Hudson. He's not going to hurt me. Plus, I think it's getting serious." I walk around her and put my plates on the counter.

"Wait, what do you mean? Has something happened?"

I turn to her and smile. "Well, I didn't have sex, but something did happen."

Lacey gasps. "Oh my God, do you give him a blow job?"

"Lacey!" I yell at her. "I can't believe you said that." My face feels like it's on fire.

"What? It's a legitimate question. Did you?"

"No, I didn't. Other stuff happened, but not that." I shake my head at her and head back to the porch to finish cleaning up.

"Okay, okay. I shouldn't be so blunt with you, but I want you to be careful. I don't want anything or anyone to hurt you." Lacey helps me pick up items on the table.

"I know, but like I said, Hudson is different. I know it." I smile at her, and she gives me a small smile back.

"Just remember one thing. At some point in their lives, all men are stupid. Even Prince Charming." She gives me a serious look.

"I love that you care so much." I reach over and hug her tightly.

We spend the rest of the evening, cleaning up, and talking about our jobs. Lacey asks me about the dinner tomorrow evening.

"Oh yeah, Jeffrey is on my case about it. He wants everything perfect."

"I can't believe he's making such a fuss about a company dinner."

"It's not just a dinner, though. It's a huge fundraiser for the children's hospital. Everybody who's anybody will be there, even celebrities. That's why I'm so nervous." I don't want to think about tomorrow. It makes my stomach queasy.

"I'm sure it will be fine. You're a smart cookie. You've got it. Isn't Prince Charming going with you?"

I shake my head. "He has to work."

I watch her face as she rolls her eyes. "Of course." When she realizes I'm watching, she smiles. "Alright, I'm out of here. I love you." She hugs me and heads out.

I send Hudson a text, saying that I hope he feels better. Then I jump in the shower to get ready for bed. I go through the house, making sure everything is locked up and crawl into the bed. I see that my phone is blinking, alerting me of a text.

Hudson: I feel a little better, but I miss you

Me: Aw, miss you too. See you in couple days.

Hudson: Yep, have fun tomorrow at your dinner

Me: Have a great night at work =)

I lay my phone down and fall asleep with a smile on my face.

~ ~ ~

My hands are shaking as I put the final touches of makeup on. This dinner is a big deal and Jeffrey has reminded me so many times that he wants everything to be perfect. I look in my full length mirror and smile. My beautiful dress makes me feel like a princess, and it's all because of Hudson. The past two months are better than I could ever imagine. Thinking about him, I send him a quick text. I know that he is busy with work, but I want him to know that I'm thinking about him and hoping that he is feeling better.

Me: Just thinking about you! Hope you're feeling better! Can't wait to see you tomorrow

I gather the last few things and head out the door.

Traffic is a nightmare, but I finally make it to the event. I don't valet my car because I don't want to have to spend the extra money. I park a couple blocks down and walk up to the event. It's being held in the oldest hotel in the city, in its massive ballroom.

I'm in awe as I walk into the hotel lobby. It looks stunning with the architecture work everywhere. I bet Hudson would love to come here and see this detail on the ceiling.

"Ellie," Jeffrey's stern voice startles me as I turn around. "Now remember we're here to make more business contacts. The shy, small town act you've got going on might work here." I nod, even though it's not an act. I stare at Jeffrey and notice that he looks like he stuffed himself into his tux.

"Jeff, stop being an ass," Jeffrey's wife, Melody, comes up behind him. "How are you, dear?" She asks me.

I smile and nod. Melody is very nice and comes around the office often. I think she is the only one that can handle Jeffrey.

"This is a big night for us. We need to be on our game," Jeffrey hisses.

"I won't let you down, Jeffrey," I say quietly.

"We need something to drink." Jeffrey heads off to the bar, ignoring my comment.

Melody comes over to me and pats my shoulder. She tells me how stunning I look, and I blush.

"My boyfriend bought it for me," I say sheepishly.

"Well, he has impeccable taste that is for sure." She winks at me.

Jeffrey comes back with three glasses of champagne. When he hands me mine, I realize that I'm holding real crystal. I've never drank out of anything so shiny and beautiful before.

"Alright, let's get this ass kissing started." Jeffrey turns and we head into the main ballroom.

I'm sure my eyes are about to fall out of my head as I enter the room. There is wall to wall people. I can feel my chest tighten when seeing all of them. I look around and try to take in the room itself. It's gold and shimmers in the lighting. The murals on the wall look old, like the early 1900's. It's breathtaking seeing the details of the work.

Jeffrey starts to work around the room. He's completely different as he introduces me. He tells everyone what a great sales rep I am, and how attentive I am to the clients' needs. I can barely get a word in, as he goes on and on about me. Bouncing from person to person is making me a little dizzy. I excuse myself from them to go grab some fresh air. Of course, the lobby is just as crowded. I look around trying to find a place that isn't full of people. I see a hallway off to my right that doesn't have anyone standing around, so I head that way.

As I walk down the hall a little bit, I take a few deep breaths to calm my nerves down. This is an important night and Jeffrey's right, I need to be on my game. I stand here for a moment when I hear a bunch of laughing to my left. I look to see a door that is about halfway open. I can see that there are about five men standing in there just busting out laughing.

I peek in and stop. The one man with his back towards me is built almost like Hudson. He even has his shaggy hair. The other men around him are taller. Why is Hudson here? I mean, if it is him.

"Alright boys, let's get going." Hudson's voice orders the men around him. I would know his voice anywhere. It is Hudson. The guys begin to shrug off their jackets. An older man on the left takes their jackets, and the men around Hudson begin to put on jerseys.

Including Hudson.

I can see the back it has the number fourteen on it with his last name across his shoulders. Why is he putting on a jersey? He turns, and I have confirmation that it's him. His head is down as he looks at his phone. I can see him smile as he seems to be texting someone.

Instantly, my phone buzzes and I look down.

Hudson: I bet you're stunning. I'm always thinking about you. See you tomorrow.

My heart jumps in my throat as I turn and run back the way I just came from. Something isn't right. I try to put the pieces together as I walk back into the main ballroom. I'm about to Google Hudson's name when Jeffrey comes up.

"Hey, where have you been? We have more people to talk to," he hisses at me.

"Jeffrey," I swallow down the lump of anxiety that is creeping up. He knows a lot about sports, maybe he could answer my question. "Who's Hudson King?"

"He's the captain of the Portland Vikings hockey team. Why? You want to meet him? He is supposed to be here tonight with some other members of the team."

I'm about to tell him no when someone says Jeffrey's name.

"William, how the hell are you?" Jeffrey shakes the man's hand. "William, this is my top sales rep, Ellie Sullivan. Ellie, this is William Night. He is an assistant coach of the Portland Vikings. Ellie here was just asking me about Hudson."

I notice that he is the older man from the room.

"Oh, these past few months he has been playing at the top of his game. If he keeps this up, we're going to win it all, that's for sure. You want to meet him?" He smiles at me.

Before I can even open my mouth, I hear him yell for Hudson. I think I'm going to faint. I don't know how to handle this. William turns slightly and blocks me from seeing Hudson walking up to us.

"Hudson, you have a couple of fans who want to meet you. This is the CEO of the Omega Medical Supply Company, Jeffrey Martin."

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Martin," I hear Hudson say.

"And this lovely lady," he turns slightly as I see the panic in Hudson's chocolate brown eyes, "is his top sales rep, Ellie Sullivan."

I don't know what to do, and I don't think Hudson does either. I know if I embarrass Jeffrey, he will fire me on the spot. On top of that, if I cause I scene, it will only draw attention to the situation. Then, I remember my aunt saying to conduct yourself properly in public no matter the situation.

"Ellie?" Jeffrey brings me out of my thoughts.

I will my tears away and say confidently, "Sorry, it's nice to meet you, Mr. King." I stick my hand out for him to shake it.

I see Hudson close his eyes, and I know that he's trying to hide the hurt on his face. When he opens them, he gives me a sad smile. He gently shakes my hand. "Nice to meet you, Ms. Sullivan."

"Aw, Ellie seems to be starstruck by our captain," Mr. Night says. "He does have a way with the ladies." They laugh, but I stare at Hudson, and he stares back.

I clear my throat and put on a fake smile. "If you gentlemen will excuse me, I think I need a little fresh air before the dinner starts. It's a pleasure meeting you, Mr. Night," I shake his hand. "Mr. King." I only nod to Hudson, before I turn and walk away.

As badly as I want to run, I don't. I walk with my head held high. I begin to think about our time together. It's all a lie. He lied to me this entire time. I thought he cared for me. I thought I could trust him.

I gave Hudson the one thing I gave no one else, my heart, and this is how he repays me. I walk through the lobby and out the front door. Leaving the party will only cause Jeffrey to fire me, but I don't care. I can't stay here. I can't be in the same room as Hudson right now. Anger is radiating through me. An anger I've never felt before.

"Ellie!" I hear Hudson yell for me, but I won't turn around. "Ellie, wait!"

I keep walking until he jumps in front of me. He grabs my arms to stop me from walking on. The bright "C" is gleaming on his left side. The Vikings helmet on the front looks like it is mocking me too.

"Please let me explain," he begs.

The first tear falls from my eyes. "You lied to me." I feel my lip quiver.

"Ellie, I swear it's not like that. Let me explain."

"You're a professional hockey player?"

He drops his hands from me, and runs them through his hair. "Yes."

"Not an architect?"

He shakes his head.

"Jeffrey said that you were a captain or something?"

He pointed to that bright "C" on his chest. "I am. I'm the captain of the team."

"You lied to me," I repeat. I can't comprehend everything that is happening to me at this moment. I thought I could trust him, but he had been lying to me the whole time we've been together.

"I didn't lie. I never said the words that I was an architect. You just assumed I was because of my major. I just omitted my hockey life from you. Everything else was real. I swear."

I stare into his eyes. He looks like he is on the verge of crying. I can see the pain coming from him. He steps towards me, but I step back.

"Omitting the truth is lying. I trusted you. I trusted you with everything. I gave you my heart, and now," I stop as more tears fall. "And now, I find out that it was all a lie."

"No, baby, I swear, I didn't tell you because I wanted to have a normal relationship. I didn't want someone because of my money or who I play for. I wanted you, and I found you, and I fell in love with you."

"Don't," I point my finger at him, "don't you dare say that you love me right now. You're a liar, and I don't believe anything you say." I can hear the hurt and anger in my voice. I almost didn't recognize it.

"Ellie, it's true."

"No, it's not. Here is what is true: I hate that you let me fall in love with you under a lie. I hate that I believed you. I hate that I'm so naïve that I didn't know who you were. I hate that because of you I probably just lost my job because I can't stand to be in a room with you." I step closer to him and look him in the eye. "I hate you, Hudson."

I see the hurt and sadness in his eyes, but I don't care. I do hate him. He lied to me. I stare at him for another moment before I walk past him. He doesn't follow me as I go to my car. I calm myself enough for my long trek home. I turn the music up loud so I don't have to think about anything but the beat of the music.

I've never been so relieved to pull into my driveway. I rush into my house and slam the door. I go straight for my bedroom. I throw my heels into the closet with all my might. Then I practically tear the dress off me and fling it in the corner. I don't ever want to look at it again.

I go into the bathroom and scrub my face of all the makeup. I'm still furious that when I'm done, my face is red. I slip on one of my nightshirts and go into the living room. I turn on my laptop and Google: Hudson King. There he is right there staring back at me. I begin to read all about him.

He did go to Boston College and major in architecture. I think back to that day sitting on the trail:

"Hey, I never asked you what your major was in college?"

"I majored in architecture."

"Oh, you're an architect!"

He never said he was an architect. I assumed that he was one. I shake my head. He wore a hoodie that day with his name on it. I should have questioned him about it, but I didn't. I continue to read and see that he's one of the highest paid captains in the league. I roll my eyes. Of course, I'm dating some multimillionaire and didn't know it.

I read that the Vikings were having a rough season right around the time we first met. I remember the first time I saw Hudson at Jim's:

"Oh, what do you do?"

"Right now he is working with a bunch of uncoordinated monkeys," Jim said.

"You work for the circus?"

"No, he means the people I work with are like uncoordinated monkeys."

I close my eyes. I'm such an idiot. I even remember the look on his face when he thought I knew who he was. Why didn't I know who he was? It isn't like I'm Lacey and keep up with the latest gossip.

Lacey.

Lacey would have known who he was. I grab my phone, and ignore all the miss calls and texts and call her.

"I figured you were dancing the night away still," she answers.

"I need to ask you something and I want the truth, please. I've had a very bad night."

"Oh my God, Ellie, what is it?" Her voice is full of concern

"Did you know that Hudson is a hockey player?"

There is nothing but silence on the other end.

"Lacey, did you?" My voice cracks, but I already know the answer.

"I did know who he was that night. But I told him to tell you. I swear."

The tears fall again. My best friend. "Why didn't you tell me? I looked like a fool tonight."

"Wait, where were you?"

"I was at the dinner. He was there as a special guest or something. My boss and his assistant coach introduced us. I left and probably lost my job too."

"Oh no, Ellie, I'm so sorry."

"Yea, well, maybe my best friend should have told me so I wouldn't have to feel so betrayed by everyone." I hang up on her before she can say anything.

I just sit there in the quiet. It reminds me of how alone I am. I close the laptop, and turn off my phone. I lay on my bed and cry myself to sleep.

Chapter Seventeen

Hudson

I absolutely hate that I watched Ellie walk away from me, that I let her go, but I have to get back to the event and maybe some time away from me is what she needs right now. This isn't how I wanted her to find out. The look on her face was devastating with the hurt and betrayal staring back at me. None of my worst nightmares could compare to how I felt when I saw that look in her eyes. I desperately wanted to hold her and make her feel better, but I couldn't.

There is one thing I can do right now and that is to make sure that Ellie doesn't lose her job because of me. With a little time to spare before the event gets started, I find her boss. He even looks like an ass.

"Excuse me, Mr. Martin. Could I speak with you for a second?"

"Of course." He follows me out into the hallway, muttering about how he wonders where his employee is.

"I need to talk to you about Ms. Sullivan."

"You know where she disappeared to?" He asks.

"Yes, something very important caused her to go home early."

"I'll be damned," he says under his breath, running a hand over his balding head.

"Please, whatever you do don't fire her. She couldn't help it and you've said yourself that she's your best employee. I'm asking, begging you not to fire her."

Jeffrey scrutinizes me and my pleading face for a second before he says anything.

"Please," I add.

"Since it's coming from you, I'll take it into consideration."

All I can do is hope that I didn't cost Ellie her job. Underneath the smiling hockey player, trying to raise money for a children's hospital, I'm an antsy man waiting to run out of here to fix this mess. If I can even fix it. Ellie said herself that she hates me. I deceived her, I deserve her hate and her anger, but she didn't deserve to be hurt. Why didn't I just grab her shoulders, tell her to shut up for a minute and listen and then tell her?

Because I'm a fucking idiot who procrastinates.

I'm supposed to see her tomorrow, doubt I will now, and then I'll be back on the road for hockey. The longer I don't see or hear from her, the worse it's going to get, I'm sure of that. My mother said that eventually it'll work out. Eventually. I hate that word almost as much as I hate myself right now. It's late when I leave the fundraiser and I reluctantly decide to leave Ellie be for tonight. I'll be at her house first thing in the morning though.

~ ~ ~

My coffee sucks, not helping at all considering that I barely slept last night. I tossed and turned the whole time. Ellie's hurt expression permanently glued behind my eyelids, so I saw it every time I closed my eyes. Traffic is horrible and my mood makes it worse. I just want to see Ellie. That's all. I don't want to deal with bad coffee or traffic. Finally, I make it to her house. My heart rate increases with both nerves and a bit of excitement that I'm about to see her. I get out of my truck, walk up the steps, and knock on her door.

"What are you doing here?" She asks exasperated when she sees that it's me.

I shove my hands into my pockets. "We need to talk. Please, Ellie."

She stares at me for a moment. "Two minutes. Starting now."

"It's not an excuse, but I've been trying to tell you. I was going to tell you on the trail that day and you told me that you didn't like pro athletes. I was going to tell you the day you thought I was married. Then I decided that no matter what, I would tell you today and you ended up finding out last night." For some reason, I feel like if she knows that I've been wanting to tell her, it'll make it a little better. Not really, but it's worth a shot.

"So, you didn't think that telling me that you're an NHL player and a multimillionaire was important? We were together more times than those couple of times you're talking about, Hudson. Why did you lie to me?" Her voice breaks, ripping my heart straight from my chest.

"I only kept it from you because I was tired of being that person to women. You didn't know and that meant you weren't going to think of me as a captain or as a 'multimillionaire' or anything other than me. Hudson. I craved normalcy and because you didn't know, you treated me as such. Can you honestly say you would have taken my number if I had of told you that day?" I'm almost positive that she wouldn't have.

"Hudson, that day at Jim's I liked you. I've liked you every moment since, up until last night. I don't care about your money or your status. I fell in love with guy who didn't push me into sex every moment he was around. I fell in love with the guy who watched Harry Potter movies with me. I fell in love with a guy who liked me for me." She pauses and then adds, with sad eyes, "But I don't know that guy anymore."

"Yes, you do." She has to know that. "I'm still that guy. I've always been that guy. Now, you know all of me instead of parts of me. I shouldn't have hid that from you, I know. It just continually got harder to tell you, but our date today? I was going to show you one of the most passionate parts of myself, the hockey piece of my life. I wanted to share that with you and I'm sorry I didn't do that from the start."

"I should have known this from the first date. Do you know what I did last night after I ripped that fucking dress off? I Googled my boyfriend and found out everything about him. Everything that I had no damn idea existed. Only to find out that my best friend knew more than I did. And to find out that I am nothing but some naïve hick from Idaho. What did you do last night, Hudson? Mingle with the fancy, big city people?" She went from almost crying to glaring at me, radiating with anger.

"What did your web search tell you aside from the details of my job?" That was the only thing she didn't know. "Ellie, I'm still me and I spent last night wishing I was already here with you. A beautiful, hardworking girl who thinks I'm overpaid, a girl who blushes and has takeout more often than cooking. A girl who likes a quiet evening on the porch and who wants to go to Paris because it's the 'City of Love'. Ellie, I love that girl and I was scared to let you see the hockey part of my life. Hockey isn't anything like that at all, but it's a piece of who I am. I'm so sorry." So unbelievably sorry.

"Do you know why I think that about pro athletes? Because you don't care about the outcome. If hockey is this great passion of yours, then why wasn't I a part of it? Didn't you care enough to share that with me?" I care so much, but I'm an idiot. Ellie keeps talking. "And yes, I'm all those things you say, but I'm also an adult. You should have let me make the decision to stay with Hudson, the hockey player, or Hudson, the regular guy. Instead, I was embarrassed in front of my boss, humiliated by my best friend, and the one person I ever trusted enough in my bed, lied to me and broke my heart." Ellie's hand grips the door tighter and I know she won't listen to me much longer.

"Let me show you then. Let me make you a part of it like I was going to do today. Please," I beg. I'd do anything she wanted me to do to get her back. Absolutely anything.

A steel resolve overcomes her instantly. She's done talking to me and listening to my pathetic apologies. "Your two minutes are up, Hudson. Good luck in the playoffs, and I hope that you find what you're looking for. I really do."

Ellie slams the door and quietly, I say, "I'm looking for you."

What the fuck am I going to do now?

Chapter Eighteen

Ellie

It's been six days since that day on the porch. I haven't talk to Lacey either. Hudson never texted or called me. On the other hand, Jeffrey did call. He told me that my job is there, but I couldn't ever leave another event again.

Now, all I've done is work, come home, and cry myself to sleep. Even though, I slammed the door on Hudson, I miss him. He made me feel like a real person, and my heart is truly broken. I even watched some highlights from the games. I don't understand what is going on, but according to the announcers, Hudson is doing great.

It's Friday night, and I just want to sulk on my couch. I know in my head that I need to move on, but my heart won't let me. I'm staring at the next Harry Potter DVD sitting on my coffee table. We were supposed to watch it last night, but we obviously didn't. A knock on the door brings me back to reality.

I open it and almost stumble backwards. It's the last person I ever expected.

"Are you going to stare at me or may I come in?" Whitney puts her hands on her hips.

I step to the side to let her in. "How did you find my house?" I ask quietly.

"Unlike you, I know how to use Google," she smarts back to me.

"I know how to use Google. I didn't think I had to use it for my boyfriend. I mean, ex-boyfriend." I cross my arms to protect my heart. I don't know why she's here, but I don't feel like talking about Hudson.

"Well, I'm here because I'm worried about my brother, and you're the one person that can fix it."

I shake my head. "I can't fix anything."

"Let me speak first." She puts her hand up to stop me from talking. "We all told Hudson to tell you right away. We knew you would eventually find out. What he did was wrong and none of us blame you on that part." I stare at her eyes as she continues. "However, it's your fault he is in the depressive state that he is in right now."

"Me? What did I do?" I'm shocked that she's blaming me.

"Ellie, my brother loves you. I've never known my brother to love anyone besides us. You're mad because he didn't tell you about his career. But that isn't all of Hudson. You saw the real Hudson. The one that only a few of us know exist. Now, you have the chance to see all of him." I feel the tears burning my eyes. She pulls something from her pocket. "There is a big game tonight, and I want you to be my guest." She hands me a ticket. On the front of it is Hudson. His face is full of determination and is fierce.

"I don't want to go." I try to hand her the ticket.

"This isn't a debate. The game starts in a couple of hours. Traffic is heavy since it's the playoffs. So you should leave soon." She turns and leaves.

I stand there in my living room, holding the ticket. My heart is broken, but the words are sinking in. The same words that Hudson said. I mentally went back and forth on whether to go or not. I need a voice of reason, but I haven't talked to her in a while.

"Oh my God, Ellie," Lacey answers the phone.

"Hey," I say quietly.

"Ellie, I'm so sorry. I should have told you right away. I hate that we aren't talking." She is talking so fast I can't get a word in.

"Lacey, I need a huge favor?'

"Name it. Anything you want."

"What do I wear to a hockey game?"

~ ~ ~

Whitney wasn't lying about the traffic. It's bumper to bumper all the way to the arena. I make my way through the ticket line, and I head in. I soak in everything. There are people everywhere, young, old, and in-between. I see so many wearing Hudson's jersey, and it brings a small smile to my face. The fans must really love him.

I look up and see Hudson's face hanging on numerous banners. He's wearing that steel hard face. It isn't the face I know. I know the soft, loving face. I look at my ticket, trying to find my seat. When I can't find it, I ask the attendant.

"That's a family ticket. You're in the box. Go to the end, up the stairs, third door on the left." I thank him and head in the direction he told me to go to.

When I find the door, it's closed. Do I knock or just go in? I decide to walk on in. The first thing I notice is that it looks like a small boardroom. There is food and a bar to the left, large leather chairs in front of me and to the right it's all open to see the crowd. I gasp, looking out to the arena. Whitney turns and smiles.

"Well, you missed warmups but the game is about to start."

"Whitney, stop being mean," a short, older female says. She is sitting by the bar. I know right away that she is Hudson's mom. She has the same hair color and the same chocolate brown eyes. "I'm Wendy King." She walks over to me and shakes my hand. "You have to be Ellie." I nod. I can't believe that I'm meeting Hudson's mom, especially under these conditions. "I know this seems strange, but Hudsy told us everything that happened. I'm glad you came."

I give her a small smile when she says 'Hudsy'. It's the cutest thing ever, the way she says it.

"Hey, the game is about to start," Whitney announces.

Wendy loops her arm in mine and leads me to the leather chairs. "I know that you're still mad at my son, and you have the right to be, but I wanted you to see this before you made your final decision on him." Wendy pats my hand as we sit down.

I'm not sure what to say. I just look at the massive ice rink in front of me. "I don't know anything about hockey," I say.

"Hockey is an easy sport to follow," Whitney says.

"Does...does he know I'm here?" I fiddle with the hem of my shirt.

"No, he doesn't. This is just my way of getting to know you better." Wendy gives me a kind smile. "Hudsy has told me a lot, but I wanted to know the real you."

My attention is pulled from her when the crowd begins to roar. I look out and every person is standing and cheering. When I focus on the rink, I see navy blue jerseys as they skate onto the ice. It's the Portland Vikings. I feverishly search for number fourteen. When my eyes see him, I almost cry. He's skating around with a hard look on his face. When his face comes up on the massive screen in the middle of the arena, I can tell that he's tired.

"Are you ready to learn some hockey?" Wendy leans in a little towards me.

I nod. They go on to tell me there are five players on the ice at all times and one goalie. They explain that there are three periods and two intermissions. They even tell me what the lines on the ice mean.

"Hudson has played a long time if you know all that," I quietly say.

"All my children played hockey. My husband and I are huge fans. Ethan played, even through college, but he fell in love and chose a different path. Whitney played through high school."

"But I got tired of it," she adds.

"However, Hudson was different. The moment he touched the ice, it was like he was home. We put him in a pee-wee league when he was about five, and that was it. After his first game, he told everyone he was going to be in the NHL." She smiles proudly, talking about her son.

"Here we go." Whitney points to the ice.

I can see Hudson in the center getting ready for what I was just told is a faceoff. I lean forward and watch as Hudson and the other members begin. Hudson gets the puck and skates like he was hit by lightning down the ice.

"Oh my God." I look at his mother.

"Yeah, he skates pretty fast," she confirms without me saying anything.

I look back out on the ice and watch as everyone fights for the puck. That is when I notice that almost everyone has a beard. "Um, is it a hockey thing to have beards? When I met Hudson, he didn't really have one," I ask shyly.

"Hockey players are extremely superstitious. When your team makes the playoffs, they don't shave. They're called 'playoff beards'," Whitney explains to me.

Everything is beginning to make sense to me. I still can't believe that I didn't pick up on the hints and clues. After a little bit on the ice, he jumps over the wall and sits down.

"Is he hurt?" I ask them both.

"No, nothing like that. Each shift only goes out for a little bit. Keeps them from getting worn out," Wendy explains.

I watch the game and keep an eye on Hudson. After several minutes and no score, he comes back on the ice. I can't believe how fast he is, and he looks so graceful. I remember that day on the trail:

"Are you not a runner?"

"No, I mean, I run, but in a different fashion."

This is what he meant. He is a fast skater, not a fast runner. I watch in awe of his ability. He's standing close to the wall when a player from the other team slams into him, knocking him into the wall. Hudson falls to the ground, and I jump to my feet, gasping. He has to be hurt, but instead he hops right back up.

"Ellie, sit down, dear. He's fine," Wendy coos.

"But did you see that?" I point to what happened as I sit back down.

"It's called being slammed into the boards. It's a move all players do. The point is to regain possession of the puck," Whitney explains.

I can't even speak. What if he got hurt? How would I handle that? Wait, we're not together. He lied to me, and I should still be angry.

As if she is reading my mind, Wendy pats my hand, bringing my attention to her. "Deny it all you want, but you're wrong. Your heart belongs to Hudsy, and his belongs to you."

She's right. I love Hudson. I love the real Hudson. I love the guy I almost pepper sprayed, the guy I whipped in the face with my ponytail, and the guy who held me at night, never asking for anymore. I swipe the tears away as Whitney hands me a napkin.

"Oh, sweetie." His mother embraces me. I stop the tears from flowing as the sounds of the arena surrounds us. "It will be okay. If it's meant to be, then it will happen," she whispers in my ear.

I freeze and sit back. I stare at her wide eyed. "What did you say?"

She smiles and repeats, "If it's meant to be, then it will happen."

"Ellie, are you okay?" Whitney asks. "You're white as a ghost."

I nod. "My aunt used to say that all the time. She always thought that everything happened for a reason."

"That's true. Even though what my son did was completely wrong, it happened, and there is a reason for it. Even if we can't see it now," Wendy says.

The sound of the horn startles me. The first period is over. I watch as everyone skates off the ice. Hudson waits to be the last one off the ice, and I stare at his number fourteen as he goes into the tunnel. Through intermission and the second period, Wendy, Whitney, and I talk. They ask me all about my life, and I ask about theirs. I don't think I've talked that much at one time, ever. We even laughed a few times.

By the time, the third period starts, there is still no score. I can't believe how intense this game is. None of us say a word as we watch Hudson and the players' battle for the puck. I cringe every time someone hits Hudson or he hits someone. I don't want him to get hurt.

There is less than a minute on the clock, and I'm not sure what is going to happen.

"What happens if no one scores?"

"They keep going until someone does," Whitney declares.

Just then there's a loud boom, and the crowd is screaming. I look up at the screen and see that Vikings have scored. We're jumping up and down, even though it wasn't Hudson that scored. There is just a few second left, and when the final buzzer sounds, the Vikings have won. I watch the celebration on the ice and see their smiling faces on the large screen. I'm so happy for him.

"Ellie," Wendy touches my arm, "we're going to head down to him. You're more than welcome to come with us. Now, I won't lie to you or my son. I will let him know that you were here, and what an amazing person you are. I know my son did wrong, but I hope that you can forgive him soon. He loves you, and I know you love him." She hugs me tightly and heads for the door.

"Do you want to come down?" Whitney asks.

I shake my head. He needs his family right now, not me to complicate everything.

"I didn't figure you would, but I want to give you this." She hands me a piece of paper.

"What's this?"

"Hudson is off the next two days. He has practice in the morning, but nothing else planned. That is his home address and the code to get into his building. I figure that you should have it. You know, in case you need to talk to him." She winks at me before she turns and leaves me.

I take a deep breath before sitting back into my chair. I stare out at the ice rink. This is Hudson's life. The question is do I want to be part of it? I stare at the piece of paper in my hand. Hudson's address. This is something that I'm not sure what to do with.

I stand up and head home.

~ ~ ~

When I get home, I take a hot shower and try to relax. I throw on an oversize shirt and head into the living room. I don't feel like reading or doing anything for that matter. I just sit and listen to the silence. On the coffee table sits the movies that Hudson and I were watching. A smile pulls at my lips thinking we were only on the fourth movie.

"It's a gift and a guarantee that there will be more dates to come. Open it."

"Harry Potter movies?"

"Yep, the whole collection. However, you can't watch them without me. Deal?"

I can't watch movies without him. I bite my lip knowing exactly what I'm going to do tomorrow.

~ ~ ~

The idea seemed better in my head than when I'm standing on the other side of Hudson's door. It even took me almost thirty minutes to get out of my car. Another ten to walk into his building, and now I'm just standing here like a statue. What if he doesn't want to see me? What if he slams the door in my face this time?

I think about the words of my aunt and Hudson's mom. If it's meant to be, then it will happen. I take a deep breath, count to ten, and knock on the door.

"Ellie. How...what are you doing here?" His expression is genuine shock. I guess Whitney didn't tell him that she gave me his address.

"Um," I shift, uncomfortably, "I was at the game last night. Whitney gave me your address and code. You know, in case we needed to talk."

"She didn't tell me that part," he mumbles.

"If you don't want me here, I can leave. I know that I didn't call first or anything." I start to back away, ready to leave if he wants me to.

"No, no. It's fine. Come on in." He steps to the side to let me inside the apartment.

It's a huge studio apartment with bright open windows. The kitchen is on my right. It looks more updated than mine. In front of me is an open floor which Hudson turned into his living room. There is a massive TV on the wall, every electronic game you could even think of neatly under it on their stands. His couch is plush, and I can tell it's leather. To the right is a huge foosball table and a pool table beyond that. There is a staircase at the very end of the room, and I assume that is where his bedroom is.

"Wow, this is a bachelor pad. You didn't lie about that."

"No, I didn't. There were a lot of misplaced truths, I guess you could call them that," he says sadly.

On the far side of the wall, where I'm standing is an enormous display case. There are ribbons, medals, and everything in between. Next to it are several hockey sticks. They look used. The tape around them is worn and one stick is cracked in half.

"That's a lot of awards on that wall and hockey sticks. Some of them look like from when you were younger."

"Yeah, some are. Do you want to go look at them?"

"Um, maybe another time." I shake my head. "I actually came over here for a reason," I say confidently.

"Okay, what is it then? Finally decide to use the pepper spray on me?" He gives me that beautiful smile.

"As tempting as that might sound, no, that isn't the reason. I made a deal with you that I wouldn't watch these without you." I reach into my purse and pull out the DVD. "And I really want to see this one. So, do you have time to watch it with me today?" I say a silent prayer, hoping that he will say yes.

"Of course. It would be my pleasure."

Chapter Nineteen

Hudson

"Do you want anything to drink?" I ask as the movie begins. Ellie shakes her head and I sit down next to her on my couch. I can't believe she's here. I'm not even sure what to do or say. Part of me wants to ask her how she's been, if she enjoyed the game, and if she's still friends with Lacey. The other part thinks I should keep my mouth shut and wait for Ellie to take the lead. What if I'm so exhausted that I'm hallucinating, and she's not really here?

Just like the first time we watched a movie, Ellie slips off her shoes, tucking her legs underneath her, but she doesn't lean into me. My eyes are stuck on the TV without actually seeing anything. My vision is too busy trying to look at Ellie from the corner of my eye. Mentally, I make a list. Ellie went to my game last night after Whit apparently went over and gave her a ticket. Then Whitney gave her my address, and now Ellie is here sitting next to me. Maybe I need to call and thank my sister.

I don't know if I can sit through this entire movie and not say something. This feels like a misuse of time. We can always start it over to watch it again. I don't even know what's happening because I can't focus on anything other than the fact that she's three inches from me.

"I've missed you," I finally say. That seems to be the safest thing.

Ellie glances over at me. "I've missed you too."

"I hope my sister and my mom weren't too overwhelming." I don't know where to start, but last night seems to be a good place.

"Well, when Whitney showed up at my house, I was pretty shocked. She didn't give me a lot of choice about going to the game or not. I didn't know your mom would be there, but I really like them both. They helped me understand everything that was going on. I got confused a little, but you looked great out there." Ellie smiles a little at the memory.

"Yeah, Mom almost always comes during playoff season. Dad would have been there, but he wasn't feeling well. Did you have fun?" I ask, really hoping the answer is yes.

"Yeah, I did actually. You know, once I got over you being slammed into the wall, or boards, or whatever it's called. It was more intense than what I thought it would be." She was worried about me then? I try not to smile.

"It's a little less intense during the regular season, but the stakes are so much higher right now."

"I can understand that. Whitney told me about the playoff beards, and how superstitious you all are. I found it informative and funny at the same time."

We've beat around the bush long enough and we've hit a lull in the conversation. I have to ask and find out if there's any chance that she'll let me love her. After taking a deep breath, I look into her brown eyes and softly say, "Do you forgive me, Ellie?"

"I trusted you, and you lied to me, Hudson." The pain she's feeling pierces through me. Then she adds, "Even though you say you 'omitted' it, I still see it as a lie."

"I know I lied. I'm asking for you to forgive me and accept all of me, including my faults." I'm asking, begging, pleading, wishing with all my heart that she'll give me another chance. Yes, I knew better all along than to do this, but I was selfish and stupid. All I need is for her to forgive me.

"Do you realize the first time that you said you loved me, I told you that I hated you?" I wish with all my heart that I could forget it. "Then last night, sitting there with your family, your mom said something, and it hit me. I'm mad and hurt, but I can't hate you." Ellie angles towards me. "Hudson, I love you. When you were on the ice, you were different, but I could still see the guy I fell in love with. I can't handle anymore lies. Trust is important, and honesty is key to making everything work."

The urge to reach out and touch her is almost too much to bear. But I can't do that yet. The memory of the night of the fundraiser easily plays through my mind, causing me to force my eyes closed for a moment at the agony of hearing those words coming from the perfect girl. My girl. "I know the first time I said it, you told me you hated me because I've been thinking about it ever since. I'll never lie to you again, promise. I love you too much to lose you again."

Ellie stays silent for a moment before she says, "Then I have an idea, if you want to hear it."

"Of course. I'll do anything you want." Absolutely anything for this girl.

Ellie turns and faces me completely. "We're starting with a clean slate." Her eyes are determined as she sticks out her hand to me. "Hi, I'm Ellie Sullivan."

Cracking a smile, I take her hand in mine. "Hey, Ellie. I'm Hudson King."

Fake shock makes her mouth from an 'O.' "Oh my God, are you that famous hockey player from Portland?"

I laugh, happiness pouring through me. "Yes, but I prefer hockey player extraordinaire. Are you a fan?"

"I am now." She grins.

As soon as the words have left her mouth, I pull her to me and kiss her. God, I've missed her. Ellie's body is soon flush against mine with me laying on my back. Holding her to me tightly by her hips, Ellie kisses me deeply, the bitterness of the coffee I had before she got here mingling with the taste of her. Suddenly, she stops and rests her head on my forehead. A faint smile rests on her lips.

"This is a little too much too soon considering I just met you a minute ago, don't you think?"

Chuckling, I lift my mouth to hers softly. "Maybe so, but I've been looking for you and waiting for you for a long time." Bringing my hands up to cup her cheeks, I add, "I love you." A rush flows through my veins as if I just gave her my soul and now it's hanging in the balance between us, waiting for her reply.

"I love you too, Hudson." She leans down, presses her lips against mine, sweeping her tongue into my mouth. When her hands clench my shoulders, I lean back to kiss her cheek. Before I can ask her a question, she rests her forehead against mine again, closes her eyes, and whispers, "I'm still not ready."

"That's fine, baby. You can open your eyes now." I chuckle with a kiss on her forehead. After she does, I ask, "Can I show you all of me now?"

Ellie glances at the TV. "The movie is still on."

"We can finish it later. Please?"

"Yeah, of course. I would like that."

I leave her in the living room while I go into my bedroom to grab two pairs of skates, putting them in a duffle bag for now. Whit keeps a pair here for her and hopefully, they'll fit Ellie. We'll use the sticks and pucks that are at the arena. I want her to feel what it's like to be on the ice in a place that big, even if no one else is there.

"Ready?" I ask when I come back into the room.

Ellie nods and once she walks over to me, I take her hand. The ride is pretty quiet. Once we get to the arena, Ellie is still silent, but she seems to be absorbing it all. We haven't even gotten to the ice just yet. I say hi to the people we pass, grab two sticks and a couple of pucks before heading to the rink.

"Wow," she breathes after we've walked through the tunnel. "It looks even bigger from here."

"It's amazing, right? Just imagine thousands of loud people in here."

"I rather not," she mumbles, making me laugh.

"Okay, sit on the bench and I'll put your skates on."

She does and I kneel in front of her, taking her shoes off. "I don't think this is a good idea, Hudson. I'm not going to be able to stand up."

"That's why I'm here," I reassure her.

Ellie is quiet for another moment before she adds, "You're not going to look at me with that same expression you have on all those banners or when you're playing, right?"

"What do I look like?"

She makes a silly, mean, but determined looking face. "Either like you're about to hurt someone or like you're so concentrated if someone bothers you, you'll yell at them."

I laugh, shaking my head. "No, I'm not going to look like that. We're going to have fun, not play for the Cup."

"A cup?" She asks confused.

"Out of all the things they told you last night and all your research, you don't even know what I'm playing for in the playoffs?" I shake my head. "The Stanley Cup, Ellie. It's the best trophy in all sports. That's why it's called the Stanley Cup playoffs. We'll Google it later and you can learn all about it."

She shoves my shoulder a little. "Hey, leave me alone. I'm a new fan."

Finished with her skates, I stand, kiss her cheek and say, "You're right. I'm sorry." I sit next to her and put my skates on. "You can try standing up, if you want. Get the feel of them. It's easier on this than on the ice."

"I'll just wait for you."

With my skates on, I stand, holding my hand out for her to take. Nervous, Ellie hesitates, staring at my open palm. "We don't have to do it, if you don't want to," I tell her.

She reaches for my hand, squeezes and stands. "No, I want to. Just don't let me fall."

"Promise."

Ellie is sturdier than she gave herself credit for as we walk to the little door. I open it and step onto the ice first. Carefully, she steps out here with me. She wobbles and her legs give way a few times, but she keeps glancing at me and her feet. Once she's able to stand without falling, we begin to walk the ice for her to get a better feel. When she gets that down, I tell her how to push off with her feet. She surprises us both with how quickly she picks it up.

"You're doing pretty good to have never done it before," I say after about thirty minutes. "Want to try it without me?"

Ellie bites her lip. "Yeah. Don't go too far, though."

"I won't." I let go of her hands, but keep them right underneath them in case she loses her balance.

She doesn't.

After a few minutes of skating by herself, Ellie smiles. "This is kind of fun. I can't believe I'm doing it."

"And doing it well, I might add. Ready for the really fun part?"

"Yep."

"I'll be right back," I say, starting to skate back to the bench.

"What if I fall?" She calls after me.

"You won't." Upon reaching the bench, I grab the sticks and pucks, and quickly rush back to her.

"Watching you skate amazes me, you know. You're so fast and graceful at the same time."

I grin. "Thanks, baby." I kiss her cheek before handing her a stick, dropping all the pucks on the ice. "Okay, this is how you're going to hold it." Coming up behind her, I arrange her hands on the shaft of the stick. Quietly, I ask, "Have you ever felt weak or powerless?" Ellie nods. "Me too. But this," I squeeze my hands over hers, "this is going to make you feel strong and powerful."

I pick up mine, push the pucks, and make Ellie follow me until we're about twenty feet from the net. She's got skating down pat. I don't know why she ever thought she was uncoordinated when she runs, hikes trails, and now ice skates.

"Watch," I command. Swinging my stick back, fast and strong, I sweep it back down and slap the puck into the net perfectly. The grin is stuck on my face as I gesture for Ellie to come to me. Laying my stick back down, I come up behind her once more.

"If I can replicate what you just did, I'll deem you the best hockey player in the world," Ellie laughs.

"Might as well join the party," I joke. "Okay, let's shoot." We follow through the movements a few times, the pucks narrowly missing the net or bouncing off the pole.

"I think you're messing me up," Ellie says as I gather the pucks and skate back to her.

"Do what?" I ask incredulously.

"You're the reason I can't make it. Just let me try by myself."

Holding up my hands, I stay back. Ellie takes her time, perfecting the position of her hands, and how she wants to shoot before finally making the shot. The puck glides atop the ice, swiftly passing the line into the net.

Shock is written all over her face. "Oh my God! Hudson! I made it!" She grins and holds her hands in the air like she just scored a touchdown instead. I skate over to her, pulling her to me.

"Feels good, doesn't it?"

Ellie nods. "Is this how you feel when you score?"

"This is how I feel when I score, when I play, when I hear the crowd, when I'm with you."

She smiles, giving me a quick kiss. "You are a ladies man, aren't you?"

I shake a 'no', dipping my head to kiss her neck. "Just your man." When I pull away too look at her, her cheeks are scarlet. We hang out at the rink a little longer before going back to my place. She's wandering around my apartment, finally looking at all my hockey stuff.

"Whitney, my mom, and I are supposed to have dinner together. Would you like to go? I have tomorrow off too. You can spend the night, if you want. I'll be busy nonstop for about a week after that."

Her fingers glide over my name on one of the trophies. "I'd like that. I'll have to run home though."

"That's fine. We can go there and then meet them."

So we go Ellie's for her to pack an overnight bag, meeting my family back in Portland. Mom spent today with Whit and she'll fly back to Vancouver tonight. If we make it to the final, Ethan already has tentatively taken those days off work to watch the games with the rest of my family. I can't wait for the men in my family to meet Ellie. I know what my mom and sister think already, but I want them to meet her too.

Whitney and Mom are sitting at a table in the back when we arrive. Mom's face lights up when she sees I have Ellie with me. Whit looks smug, like she predicted this herself and deserves an award for her part in making it happen. Mom stands, pulling Ellie into a hug, whispering something in her ear, before turning to hug me.

"Hey, Mom. Hey, Whit," I say, pulling Ellie's chair out for her and then taking a seat myself.

"We were about to order without you," my sister tells us. "You're late."

"Shush," Mom orders. "How are my Hudsy and Ellie doing today? Are you two engaged yet?"

"Mom! Don't start with all that." I glance nervously at Ellie, those cheeks of hers on fire. I just got her back. I don't need their shenanigans to scare her away. Whitney's laughing doesn't help either. Cutting a glare at her, I say, "Have you told Mom about what's-his-face who has been studying at your apartment?"

"Of course. Mom knows all about Drew," she smirks.

Thank God for the waiter coming to take our order. At least, I was thankful until he opened his mouth.

"Hey, you're Hudson King. I'm a big fan. Are you ready for the next round? All of us here are pretty confident that the Vikings will make it to the Final."

"That's the plan," I tell him before looking at Ellie and talking to everyone else, "Are y'all ready to order?" Fans are great, but I'm here with my family tonight and that's all I want to think about.

Mom orders first and then we go around the table, leaving me for last. Once the waiter walks away, Ellie mutters, "I can see why we always ate at my house."

Mom laughs. "Hudsy is quite the star, especially back home. Everyone's so proud of him."

"It's not a big deal." I shrug her off.

"It is a big deal. You should be proud of your accomplishments."

"I am proud enough," I answer. "For example, today, I taught Ellie how to skate and score a goal."

"Really? Well, we will make you a professional hockey player yet. Did you enjoy yourself, Ellie?"

"I did." She takes a sip of her drink and then adds, "It was really fun and it helped me know Hudson better. I got a glimpse of what he loves about it."

Taking her hand, I grin at my mom and proudly say, "I've turned her into a hockey fan and player all in one day."

"You can go with me to the next game, if you want," Whitney offers.

"Thanks. I wouldn't mind going again," Ellie smiles.

"Ellie, I was wondering about your family? Hudsy told me they all passed on, but what were they like?"

"Well, I was four when my parents passed, so I don't really remember them. I just remember my aunt. She was an amazing person."

"She gardened a lot, like you, Mom," I input.

"Oh, I do love to garden. It relaxes me, especially since all my children are gone. If I had grandchildren that were closer, I could teach them too."

Always with the grandkids! "That's why Ethan's having another one. Maybe you can talk him into letting that one stay with you part of the year. Or when Whitney finishes school and marries this Drew, they can get married, move back home, and give you grandchildren."

"Well, I'm hoping that Whitney finishes school first. But you know, you're not getting any younger, Hudsy. Nor am I."

Ellie squeezes my hand as Whit says, "Hey, who said I was marrying him and why do I have to be the one to move back home? Don't try to redirect the pressure of your old age and Mom's craving for grandkids on me, Hudson. Better get a move on it is all I have to say."

"How's Dad, Mom? Is he feeling better?" I ask, trying to take the conversation away from this. I'm not comfortable. Ellie isn't comfortable. Hell, the people two tables over probably aren't comfortable either.

"He's moping, ready for someone to be there to take care of him. He should be feeling better by your next home game though."

"What is he like?" Ellie asks. "I don't think I've really heard anything about him."

"Oh, you'll like him, dear. He's not as outspoken as the rest of us. Whitney and Hudsy's personalities took after me. Ethan is more like his father."

Our food arrives, almost making my shoulders slump as I realize we're only halfway through this dinner. Mom and Whitney excuse themselves to the restrooms and I turn to Ellie.

"Should we leave cash on the table and bail before they get back?" I ask with a chuckle.

"Um, no, it's fine. As long as she doesn't break out a caterer's list for the wedding or start naming future children."

"I am right there with you. She's something, that's for sure," I say with a shake of my head.

"Was she like that with your other girlfriends?"

"The ones she met, yes. It's been a while since she met a girlfriend, especially after she started with the baby business."

"Oh, I thought maybe I was just special."

"You are." I smile, then kiss her cheek. "She's being extra pushy because she loves you already."

Ellie smiles a little and once the girls return, the rest of dinner is tame in comparison to the start. Ellie starts to relax, fitting in nicely with my family. I can't say that I'm not happy it's over as I hug my mother and sister goodbye and watch them drive away.

On our drive back to my apartment, Ellie isn't talking. She does hold my hand the whole time, and I'm worried that my mother has done some damage. When we walk into my place, and Ellie looks tired. I know that I'm a little tired too.

"Hey, why don't you and I go to bed early?" I pull her into my arms.

She bites her lips and nods. "Where's your bathroom?"

I point to the left. "I'll go upstairs and change."

She heads towards the bathroom, and I go up the stairs. I pull off my shirt and jeans. I sit on the side of the bed, scratching by beard. I know not to push Ellie, and I won't do that. I hear her coming up the stairs. She comes in the bedroom, and she is just wearing an oversized t-shirt. She washed off all her makeup, and her wavy hair is in a ponytail. She's stunning. She sits her bag in the corner and sits next to me.

"Hey, thanks for a great evening." She kisses my cheek.

"Sorry my mother was a little tough."

She gives me a small smile. "You look tired."

She didn't have to say anything else. I nod and crawl into the bed with her. We lay on our sides facing each other.

"Is it weird that I'm here?" She asks quietly.

"No, it's perfect." I lean over and kiss her lips. She puts her hand on my cheek, stroking my beard. I break our kiss and pull away. But instead of her letting go, she follows.

"You know, since I just met you, I can't believe that I'm already in bed with you." She smiles.

"I'm not having sex with you," I tell her.

"I'm not having sex with you, either. Just trust me." She kisses me hard, and I moan. I love that she's so confident with me in bed. True, we haven't gone that far, but I love that she lets me touch her.

She straddles me, and I'm getting harder just having her on top of me. Her soft breasts press against me. I put my hands on her soft thighs. It's her turn to moan. I lightly trace her thighs up to her hips.

"Hudson, touch me," she whispers against my lips.

I roll her onto her back. I suck her bottom lip and lightly bite down it. I kiss her neck, pushing up her shirt. I suck on her breast, gently biting her nipples. I kiss her stomach and then her hips.

"Hudson, stop," she breathes.

I stop and come back to face her eye-to-eye. "Do you want me to stop or are you just nervous?" I ask softly, because I can tell that she's nervous.

"You know, I've never..." she trails off.

"You trust me. You know that I won't hurt you." She nods in agreement. "Are we stopping?" Ellie shakes her head, so I head back down to her hips and I feel her tense beneath me. "Relax, Ellie." I kiss her hip then her other. I gently lick her folds, and she jumps. I continue to lick her, and she moans louder, relaxing under me. I suck her sweet nub and slip a finger in her. She is so tight and soft. A smile tugs at my lips as she says my name over and over. Her nails dig into my hair. She rocks against my mouth. I feel her tightening up, and I know that she is close. Her body begins to shake and she yells my name as I feel her release. I pull my fingers out of her and lay next to her.

"Are you okay?" I ask her.

"I think I love your beard." She grins.

Chapter Twenty

Ellie

I wake up on a cloud. Hudson's bed is amazing. I don't think I've ever slept so well. Of course, that might have to do with how incredible Hudson made me feel last night. My legs still feel weak as I stretch my arms over my head. I roll over only to see that Hudson isn't in here.

I sit up and look around the room. Hudson's extremely large bed is in the center. He has a large dresser on the far wall. His closet doors are on the other side. I saw four frames sitting on his dresser. I get up and head over there.

One, is Whitney, Hudson, and I assume his older brother. They all have the same hair color and eyes. Then the next frame is his parents. Hudson looks more like his dad than his mom. The picture looks like it was taken several years ago. Then there is a picture of two boys and Hudson. Those must be his nephews. They are on a couch, and he is holding them both in his arms. I smile thinking that he is a great uncle. The last picture is beautiful. It's his brother's wedding. They all are dressed up, and they look so happy. It's brings a smile to my face seeing how happy he is in these pictures.

"Are you being nosey?"

I let out a small scream and spin around to see Hudson standing in the doorway. He's wearing jeans that are hanging low, and his boxers are peeking out the top of them. He doesn't have a shirt on and my eyes wander to the deep V of his hips. My mouth goes dry staring at his stunning body. His hair is damp, like he just got out of the shower.

"I was...um." I feel the blood drain from my face.

"Ellie, I'm kidding." He walks over to me, kissing my forehead.

"Sorry, I was curious." I give him a small smile. He turns me around in his arms and faces me towards the pictures.

"This one," he points to the one with his siblings, "was taken when I found out I was going to be captain. This one," he points to the next, "is when I paid off all my parents bills and debts. I did that with my first endorsement check. Those are my nephews, and it was taken during Christmas. That last one is Ethan's wedding day." He kisses the side of my neck. "I hope to have a picture of you up here soon."

I feel the heat rising to my face thinking about being an important person in Hudson's life. I lay my head back on his chest, as he tightens his arms around me.

"Hey, I've got to run down to the arena and go over some tapes with Coach, but when I get back I'm all yours. Whatever you want to do?" He kisses my temple.

"Okay," I turn around, and put my arms around his neck, "will you be gone long?"

"Hour or so, why?"

"Thought I could lounge in that pool you call a bathtub," I tease him.

He chuckles. "Have fun." He leans down to my ear. "Maybe next time I can join you?" I stop breathing at his words, and my heart races. He pulls away and gives me a quick kiss on the lips. "I'll be back soon."

I stand there and listen to the front door close. I grab my bag and head down to the bathroom. I turn the water until I find the right temperature and fill the tub.

Laying in the tub, I think about the past week. I was miserable without Hudson. Now, in the matter of a day, I am so happy. I understand why Hudson did what he did, and now we can move forward. I let the warm water surround me, as I smile thinking about last night. Feeling Hudson between my legs is something I couldn't dream of. His beard tickled me as his warm tongue brought me pleasure all over my body. My cheeks are hurting from the smile on my face.

When I finish I get out and get dressed. I dry my hair and put it up in a ponytail. I do my makeup and clean up my mess. I go out to the living room and look around. I'm in Hudson's apartment. I'm in love. These are two concepts that I didn't think would ever happen.

I walk around his apartment, looking at everything. His kitchen is shiny. Appliances are top of the line and there are more buttons on them than my cell phone. I run my fingers over his granite countertops. I walk to the living room. He has the latest electronics and gadgets. I sit on the couch and just look around. I'm brought to the present when Hudson comes in.

"Hey, I thought you were going to be gone for a while?" I ask looking at him as he comes to sit down next to me.

"I have been gone a while. Do you want me to leave again, so you can have an affair with the tub?"

I laugh and curl up next to him. "I can't help if I'm in love with your tub."

We sit there in silence, before Hudson asks, "What do you want to do today?"

I shrug. "What do you want to do?"

"How about we go out in public?"

"I'm not dressed up," I say shyly looking down at my jeans.

"You're beautiful. Come on, let's hit the town." He gives that beautiful smile and pulls me off the couch.

I grab my purse, and we head out the door. We go down in a different direction this time. I'm confused on where we are going, but I follow Hudson down the stairs.

"Um, Hudson, where are we going?" I ask before he goes out the door at the bottom.

"Oh, this is the parking garage. We always take the truck, so I thought I should introduce you to my baby."

I stop dead when I hit the bottom step. "Baby?"

For the first time, Hudson rolls his eyes at me. "Not that kind of baby. Just come on." He holds out his hand, and I take it.

We go into the dimly lit garage, and we go to the far side. In the dark corner gleams a bright white sports car. It shines like a diamond under the light.

"Hudson, what kind of car is this?"

"This is a brand new 2013 Chevy Camaro. I got it and haven't gotten to play with it yet."

"Wow, it's beautiful."

He opens the passenger side door, and I slide in on the cool, black leather seats. He comes around on his side and fires the engine. It's loud, and Hudson smiles like a kid in a candy store. He drops it into drive and peels out of the garage. I actually scream.

"Hudson!"

"Okay, okay, I'll drive safely," he chuckles.

I try to hide my smile because he looks like he is having a lot of fun taking the corners at mac one speed. Once we get on Main Street, Hudson asks if I want to go shopping.

"Um, sure I guess."

Hudson grabs my hand, and he heads downtown. I listen to him go on about the film that studied at the rink today. He's excited for the upcoming games. I admit that I am too. The game other night was intense, and I can't wait to see what is to come.

Hudson takes me to a part of downtown that I've never been too. I heard Lacey talk about it one time, but I could never afford to shop here.

He pulls into a parking spot and shuts off the car. "Ready to go shopping?"

"Hudson, I can't-"

"We're going shopping. There are rules when going shopping with me. I buy what I want. You'll get whatever you look at or want. And," he picks up my wrist and kisses the inside of it, "you can't argue with me about it."

"Hudson," I almost whine.

"No, no, I'm a professional, these are the rules. So, let's go." He jumps out of the car. He comes around and opens my door, and we head in.

Walking into that mall was like walking into the pages of Vogue. I silently gasp as we're walking inside. I don't want to touch anything, for fear I might break it. It reminds me of the fancy magazines I see when I'm in the lobby waiting at the doctor's offices. It's like the pages are coming to life in front of me.

"Ellie, you're fine," Hudson whispers.

For the next two hours, we go from store to store. My feet actually hurt from shopping. Hudson bought almost everything I touched in the first store. He kept telling me to remember the rules. In the second store, I didn't touch anything. Hudson bought things for himself and his nephews. He told me that he sends 'uncle' packages to them as often as he can.

"Aren't they babies?" I ask, as we head out of the mall.

"Well, they are three and one, so I guess we could call them that. But, that doesn't mean they can't have cool stuff from their uncle."

"Excuse me." A gorgeous blonde comes up to us as we are about to leave the store. "Are you Hudson King?"

I take a step back from him.

"Yes."

"Oh, I'm your biggest fan," she bounces on the balls of her feet. "Can I have your autograph?"

Hudson smiles and nods. She goes on and on about being his fan. I'm not sure what to do? The girl keeps looking at me, and I look away from her each time. Finally, Hudson is done, and we go to the next store.

"Sorry about that," he says, and I shrug. If I'm going to be part of his life, then I need to deal with everything. The question is how do I do that?

"Hungry?" he asks, to bring me out of my worried thoughts. I nod. We head towards the center of the mall, where all the restaurants are.

"Oh Captain, My Captain," someone sings out from across the hall. We both turn to the guy.

"What are you doing here?" Hudson sounds confused.

"Don't sound so excited to see me, your Highness. Who is this lovely lady?" The man turns to me and perks an eyebrow.

"Ellie, this is Gerald, another player on the team. Gerald, this is my girlfriend, Ellie Sullivan." My heart jumps a little when he calls me his girlfriend.

"I'm surprised by you, Hudson. This must be the source of your distraction." He picks up my hand and kisses it. "It's nice to meet the lovely queen."

"Um, nice to meet you too." The heat of my body rises to my face.

"Gerald, stop being a dork. My last name is King, I'm not a king." He growls at him. "What are you doing here anyway? Are you buying some girl a 'sorry I forgot your name' present?" He smiles at him.

Gerald grins. "You know me well. I'm all out and plan to meet a girl tonight and I'll leave it on her pillow in the morning. See? That's the nice thing to do. Leave a little present."

"Well, aren't you so thoughtful? Ellie, not all hockey players are man-whores like him." Hudson turns to me

"That's a little harsh, especially considering I leave gifts. Ellie, wouldn't you prefer it if your one night stands left a gift the next morning before they snuck out? Not saying you have one night stands all the time, but still a good question."

My face flames red. I drop my head to the ground.

"Gerald, where the hell are your manners?" Hudson's voice is stern.

"Sorry, your majesty. I was provoked. Would a present help make it up to you?" Gerald directs his comments to me.

"I appreciate the sentiment but I'm fine, thank you." I raise my head and smile.

"It's been fun. Enjoy your shopping, Gerald. The Queen and I have a lot more to do," Hudson announces.

"The busy life of Royals. Nice to meet you, Ellie."

We watch as Gerald heads in the opposite direction.

"Hey, Hudson, I'm starving." I say quietly.

"Let's go." We go into the nearest place and sit in a booth. He piles the bags in first then slide in. I sit across from him and look at the menu. "What do you want to eat?" Hudson looks at his menu.

"At this point, one of everything," I mutter. I hear him chuckle.

"Excuse me." This time it was a dark hair female. She looks a model and with her is a tall man. "Are you Hudson King?"

Hudson looks at me before turning to her with a smile. "Yep, that's me."

"I'm your biggest fan." She flirts as she sticks out her chest. "May I have a picture?"

Hudson hesitates for a moment before nodding. She sits down and gets very close to him. The man uses his camera phone and snaps the pic. Then the guy asks if he can have a pic and the same process happens. They thank him and leave us.

"Are they all your biggest fan?" I lean in and ask.

"Yep, every time." He looks back at his menu.

"I see why we stayed at my house."

He chuckles. The waiter comes and takes our order.

"Hey, do you have a passport?" He asks out of the blue.

"No, why would I need one?"

"Well, I was hoping to take you to Canada during the off season. I figured I could show you off in my hometown."

"Oh, I guess I could get one."

Hudson gives me a smile. We make small talk until our food comes. Luckily, no one else bothers us through our dinner. When we are done, we gather up the stuff, and head back to Hudson's baby. I'm a little sad when I get back to his apartment. I'm trying my best to not be sad. I know that I have to go home, and Hudson will be leaving for a game.

"I have to go," I say. "I work in the morning."

He pulls me in his arms. "I know. I have to leave in the morning."

"You're going to be careful?"

"I will if you promise to watch me." He smiles.

"I promise, but I won't know much of what's going on." I run my hands up his arms.

"Well, if you see me cheer, then you cheer." He leans down and kisses me. "I'll call you from the road, and I'll make sure you have tickets for the games here, okay?"

I nod and kiss him again.

Chapter Twenty-One

Hudson

Making it to the Final has been tough whirlwind. We're matched against the Indiana Mustangs, their red and white uniforms a contrast to our navy blue and gold. It's come down to Game 7. Ellie's starting to get the hang of the sport, but every now and then, we'll say something like hat trick or sniper and she's completely lost. She's here tonight, so winning is even more important. I mean, I want to win for the team, the fans, my family, and myself, but for her too.

Once the season is over, I'll be able to put her passport to good use. Yeah, I'm going to take her to Canada, but my main motive is something different. All I can hope for is that Ellie loves it while I secretly make plans. Right now, it's game time.

Brody Ross, their captain, is across from me as we prepare for the face-off. Everyone in this arena wants the Cup, but only one team will win. I'm about to ensure that it's my team. Losing on home ice isn't about to happen tonight. The puck drops and we're off. Tensions are high, more intense than ever. If our fans are normally loud, they are deafening tonight.

First period ends with the Mustangs on a 1-0 lead.

Second period ends with us leading 2-1, with a complementary goal from yours truly.

Two minutes into the third and it's tied. Brody Ross is determined, but so am I. I push the score to 3-2 midway through the period. Then with four seconds left, the Vikings light the lamp with another goal.

The buzzer sounds.

We've won!

We've won!

~ ~ ~

Craziness follows. That's really the only way to explain it. From lifting the Cup, celebrating, a parade, and everything else that comes with being champions. It all happens so quickly, I can barely grasp what's happening half the time. It's still hard to believe sometimes, but it's been amazing so far. This evening, we get to relax a little as Ellie and I are in Vancouver with my parents.

"Everyone is here except Ethan's wife and kids. Ready?" I ask, standing outside the front door.

"I think so."

We walk in, my mom the first to come over and hug us. "How is my Hudsy and Ellie?"

"We're good, Mom." We follow her into the living room. Dad stands to hug me first and then Ellie. "Ellie, this is my old man, Darryl. Dad, this is my girlfriend, Ellie."

"It's so nice to finally meet you. I've heard a lot about you from my wife and Hudson, of course. Ethan and I are the normal ones around here, so if they start giving you trouble, come find us." He smiles and winks good naturedly at her.

"Good to meet you too. Thank you." She smiles.

Ethan comes next, slaps me on the back with his hug, and then hugs Ellie with the same formalities. We take a seat in the loveseat once Whit says her hello as well. I smile slightly when I put my arm on the back of the seat and Ellie leans into me a little.

"Don't get too comfortable, boys. You're on dinner duty tonight. Should probably get started on that," Mom suggests with a sly smile.

"All right, you heard your mother. Let's go."

Dad and Ethan start to get up, but I say, "You're going to make me cook too?"

"Yes," she tells me simply.

"Fine." Turning to Ellie, I kiss her cheek and whisper, "Don't forget to come find us if she gets crazy on ya."

She laughs softly, nodding. "I'll be fine, I think."

I follow the guys into the kitchen. Once we get started preparing the food, I ask Ethan, "How are the wife and kids?"

"Good. Thanks for the boys' packages, by the way. Looks like things are going well with you and Ellie?"

"She seems like a sweet girl," Dad adds.

"She is. Things are going really well." Laughter from the living room makes me glance over my shoulder, although I can't see them. "Sounds like they're having fun, eh? Better to hear laughter than silence, right?"

"When it comes to those two girls, you bet," Dad answers. After a moment, he says with a chuckle, "You know, she's probably in there talking about a wedding and grandkids. I think your mother misses having you kids around, especially after Whit left. It doesn't help that you're all scattered across the States."

Ethan clears his throat. "That's one reason I decided to come up for a few days. We're thinking about moving back, but I haven't mentioned it to Mom yet."

It would be cool to have Ethan closer to the rest of us. Mom's going to be thrilled to hear this. Maybe then she'll slow down on the baby kick. Just then, Ellie pops into the kitchen, her cheeks slightly flushed, but she's smiling as she comes next to where I'm chopping some veggies.

"Hey," I kiss her cheek, "have they reached crazy already?"

"No," she laughs. "I was thirsty and your mom told me to get you to make me something. Said that just because you were a Stanley Cup Champion and all doesn't mean you can't cook dinner and fix your girlfriend a drink."

I set the knife down, chuckling. "What would you like?"

"Water."

While I'm fixing her a glass of iced water, Ellie asks Ethan about his little boys, even remembering how old they are. Then she says, "You're actually an architect, right?" It's a little funny, and I can't help but laugh as they talk about that for a bit. I hand her the glass and she gingerly takes a sip, watching me.

"Thank you, Hudson."

"It was my pleasure." Before I can ask her if she's having fun, my mother calls for her and Ellie smiles before disappearing again. "When do you plan on telling Mom?" I ask Ethan, referring to his moving back home.

"Whenever I find a place. I want it to be a sure thing before I tell her."

We make small talk while we cook, sometimes staying silent for minutes at a time. But finally it's time to eat and I'm happy to see Ellie still has a smile on her face. Dinner is pleasant as well. Mom is surprisingly behaving, as is Whitney. The girls offer to clean up since we cooked and once they finish, I drag Ellie away for a few minutes alone. Mom has a porch swing out front, so we go sit out there. She's curled into my arms.

"Have you had fun?"

"Yes. I love your family, Hudson. Thanks for bringing me, so I could meet everyone."

"Of course. You're part of our family now."

She looks at me, smiling. Ellie places a hand on the back of my neck and pulls me in for a sweet kiss. "Thank you," she whispers. "We should probably get back inside."

I shake my head. "They'll be fine for now. I'm keeping you to myself for a little while longer." After a moment, I say, "Do you have about a week's worth of vacation time still?"

Ellie leans away from me, turning in the seat to look at me better with suspicion in her eyes. "Yeah...why?"

"Every summer, I go on vacation and I want you to come with me. We need to expand the list of places you've been."

She started shaking her head before I even finished what I had to say. Apologetically, she says, "Hudson, I can't. You've already brought me to Canada and I can't keep taking off. I need to work."

"Oh, c'mon, Ellie." I reach for her hand, kissing the inside of her wrist. "Are you going to make me go alone?" When I fake a frown, she laughs.

"Where are you going anyway?"

I shrug. "Still thinking about it. Will you go with me?"

"You're a hard person to say no to, you know." She pauses and tries not to laugh as she adds, "But I'm good at saying no."

That wasn't what I was expecting her to say, and I can't help my laughing. I could try to seduce her, but I don't want to do that. Instead, I ask, "Well how can I change your mind?"

Ellie tilts her head, thinks about it, and says, "Get creative."

"So you do want to go?"

"Of course, I would love to go. I just think I should work like a normal person."

"Normal people take vacations," I tell her.

"Two in one year? Because I'm counting this as one."

Pulling her to me, I hold her close and make her look at me. One way to change her mind is to get Lacey to pack her bags and trick Ellie into riding with me to the airport. That might be too much though. Before I think of more ideas on getting her to say yes, I kiss her softly. "Please?" I mumble against her lips.

"Since you said please, yes, I'll go."

My victory is stolen as my mother peeks outside, Ellie immediately leaning away from me. "It would be nice to visit with you, Hudsy. It's not like we live in the same country." Mom laughs at herself. "C'mon. It's time for dessert."

Chapter Twenty-Two

Ellie

"Okay, I know that we are in New York, but where are we going?" I ask as I sit down in the terminal.

"Can I please have this secret?" Hudson fake whines. "Besides, the moment they announce the flight, you'll know where we are going." He sits the bags in front of us.

"Oh, okay." I feel kind of bad, because I know that he has tried to keep this secret from me. I had to convince Jeffrey that I really needed this week. Let's just say that he wasn't happy, but he did give me the time off.

I can't believe what has happened the last six months. Hudson has treated me like a princess, and I love him more every day. Spending the time in Canada was the icing on the cake. Being with his family was the greatest time I've had in forever. His mother treated me like one of the kids, and I haven't had a mother figure in my life for a while.

"Flight 1875 to Paris is now boarding first class," the announcer said.

"Okay, that's us." Hudson stood up. "Ellie?"

I can't move. My mouth is hanging open, and I'm staring at him. He's taking me to Paris. Hudson, my boyfriend, is taking me to the one place that I've always wanted to go to.

"Ellie, baby, what's wrong?" Hudson kneels down and cups my face. Tears build behind my eyes as I look at him.

"Hudson," I choke out. "You're taking me to Paris?"

"Well, it's the 'City of Love'. Where else would I take the love of my life?" He kisses my lips. "However, we have to get on the plane to go there." He winks. I giggle at him and nod.

~ ~ ~

"I thought I was in shape," Hudson says as he collapses on the bed. We have been in Paris for two days, and I've dragged him to every place I can think of. Of course, we had to go the Eiffel Tower first. I couldn't help but stare at the details of the iron and steel. There were a lot of people, but Hudson made me feel l was the only person there.

Today, we got up early and headed to the Louvre. There are no words to describe it. I think I took a thousand pictures of every angle of it. Hudson just followed along. I asked him several times if he was bored, and he said that he wasn't at all.

Then we headed for a tour at Notre Dame Cathedral. It's hard to imagine how old it is, and that it's still standing in beautiful condition. Again, I took a bunch more pictures of everything, and Hudson just smiled at me.

"I'm sorry, Hudson. Tomorrow, we can do whatever you want." I lay next to him on the bed.

"Nah, I'm just happy that you're happy." He leans over and kisses me. "I'm going to go take a shower." He gets up and heads to the bathroom.

I quickly jump up and grab my phone to call Lacey.

"Do you realize what time it is?" She grumbles at me.

"I've been trying to call you all day since yesterday. Where were you?"

"I was in a guy's pants."

My face flamed red. "Lacey," I hiss.

"Hey, you asked." She laughs. "How is Paris and Mr. Perfect?"

I clear my throat and whisper. "I think I'm going to have sex."

"What?" Lacey exclaims.

"Long time ago, when we first started see each other, I made the joke of losing my virginity in Paris. Well, I'm in Paris, so I guess he wants sex?" I almost start biting my nails in nervousness. I start to pace the room. Hudson hasn't said anything, but I know that he has got to remember me saying that.

"Look, I'm surprised you two have lasted this long. I mean, Hudson's right hand has got to be killing him by now, but if he isn't pushing you into it, then what's the problem? Do you want to have sex?"

I stop pacing. "Yes, but I'm so scared."

"Hey, it will be okay. Hudson isn't going to push you into anything you don't want to do. If that was the case, he would have left a long time ago."

"You're right. I'm just nervous." I can feel my hands shaking, thinking about what might happen.

"Look, everyone has their first time, but you have an advantage that others don't have."

"What's that?" I have no clue how I can have an advantage. I'm a twenty-four year old virgin.

"You're not some awkward teenager in the back of a Jeep. You're not with some guy who has braces. You're in Paris with a Stanley Cup Champion and captain of the Portland Vikings. On top of all that, he loves you. Now, go put on some sexy lingerie and get laid." She hangs up.

I roll my eyes at the phone. As much as I hate to admit it, she's right. Hudson won't force me to do anything that I don't want to do. I hear the bathroom door open, and Hudson comes out. He's wearing a pair of boxer briefs, and they're hanging low. I feel my mouth go dry. This isn't the first time I've seen him in them, but something is different. I'm different.

Being with Hudson has given me confidence. Even though I still blush, and Hudson and I have only touched each other, but gone no further, I still feel like I've grown.

"Baby, you okay?" He asks softly, taking my hand, and kissing the inside of my wrist. I love the shiver that goes through me when he does that.

"I'm fine." I kiss his lips. "I'm going to get ready for bed." I grab my small bag and head to the bathroom.

I stare at myself in the mirror. My hands are shaking a little, but I manage to strip out of my clothes. I put on a pair of lace boy shorts and matching bra. They are hunter green, and bring out the color of my eyes. I fluff my hair and spray a little bit of perfume. I close my eyes, counting to ten. I say a silent pray that I won't pass out. I slip on one of the hotel robes and open the door.

Hudson is sitting at the end of the bed, flipping through the channels of the TV.

"There is nothing on TV," Hudson says before turning off the TV. "Ready for bed?"

I nod. He stands and turns down the covers. I haven't moved from my spot.

"Ellie, are you sure you're okay?"

I stare at his chocolate brown eyes as he comes closer to me. I step up to him and gently kiss his lips. I push my fingers through his hair, and he moans. He grips my hips, pulling me closer to him.

"What was that for?" He asks breathlessly.

"For being amazing. I know we started off rocky, but thank you for loving me."

"Shouldn't I be thanking you then? You gave me a second chance." He kisses my lips. His tongue dances with mine. I can feel my body heat rising as he runs his hands up and down my back. Once we break the kiss, we stare at each other.

I love him. I smile at him as he looks at me, like I'm the only person in the world. He heads over to the bed and slides in.

"Ellie, are you just going to stand there all night?"

I shake my head as I head to my side of the bed. He's lying on his back, not really looking at me. I don't know where the confidence comes from, but I untie the robe and let it drop. I crawl into the bed next to him.

He rolls over and turns the light off. We kept the curtains open and the city lights dimly illuminate the room. I don't know how to start this. I don't know what to say. Lacey says that I have the advantage, but I think she is wrong.

"Ellie, baby, um, what are you wearing?" I see Hudson prop up on his elbow. I look at him and touch his face.

Lacey's right, I do have the advantage. Hudson loves me. He would never force me into anything, and I know that. I've never felt this comfortable around a man before. I lean up and kiss him. I kiss him hard and push for him to lay down. I climb on top of him, straddling him. The heat of his body and mine is like a fog around us. I begin to rock against him, and I can feel his hardness between my legs. Hudson flips us back over, moving from my lips to my neck. I wrap my legs around him, pulling him closer.

"Hudson," I pull him back up to my face.

"What?"

"I don't want you to stop tonight."

"What?"

"I want you to make love to me tonight." Through the dim lights, I can see Hudson's face, but can't read his expression.

"I told you I wouldn't ask you to do anything that you don't want to do," Hudson says quietly.

"You're not asking me. I'm telling you that I want to, and I want you."

"Ellie," he whispers.

"No, Hudson I mean it." I touch his face and run my hands through soft, shaggy hair. "I'm with the man I love, and in Paris. I don't think it could be any more perfect. Please Hudson. Please make love to me."

"Baby," he pecks my lips, "you never have to beg for me to make love to you. If you're sure, then we will, but you can say stop at any time, okay?"

"If I mess up, let me know," I say quietly.

"You could never do anything wrong. I love you." He kisses me.

I feel his hand creep up my side. He cups my breast and plays with my nipple through my bra. He breaks our connection and kisses down my neck. He pulls down my strap, nipping my collarbone.

He stops and looks at me. He sits up on my haunches, and pulls me up. His fingertips lightly trace under my bra, then to my back, and he unhooks it. This isn't the first time he has removed my bra, but I know what is coming next. He lays me back down. He kisses down my stomach to the top of my lace boy shorts. He hooks his fingers around the band and pulls them down.

I can actually feel the ache for him. I want him. I want to feel all of him. Once I'm completely naked, I sit up, pulling him to me. I wrap my legs tightly around him. I can feel him, but I need more. My hormones officially take over. I pull at his boxer briefs, taking them off. I hear him groan, as I stroke him. The feel of his heat in my hand, turns me on more. Hudson removes my hand and pushes me back down to lay on my back. He gets out of the bed, and I see him go to his bag. I hear the wrapper, and I assume that it's a condom that he is putting on.

"So, I guess you predicted that this would happen?" I giggle when he crawls back in bed.

"Nope. However, you taught me to be prepared." He hovers over me and looks at me deeply. "Are you sure?" His voice is soft, and I know that he truly cares about me.

"I'm sure that I love you and care about you."

"I'll go slow, he whispers. With his words, my legs open further, as he gets closer to me. I feel my heart race in anticipation of what is about to happen. "Relax," Hudson orders softly.

Instantly, I slow my breathing. He kisses the side of my neck. I shiver under his lips. I feel him closer to my middle. My breath catches as he pushes in. The pain shoots through me, and I dig my nails into his biceps. He pulls back out, and then pushes in again. The pain is still there.

"Do you want me to stop?"

I shake my head. Lacey had told me long time ago the pain doesn't last. Hudson repeats his move, and I know that he is fully in me. The pain isn't as intense as the first push, but I can still feel it. Hudson rocks again and again. Slowly, the pain leaves, and I feel the pleasure. I relax around him.

"Ellie," he moans, and I arch my back. He pushes deeper, and I moan his name. I can feel myself tightening up around him. My breath becomes more ragged as Hudson says my name again and again. I dig my nails deeper into his arms, as I say his name.

Hudson loses the control that he has and slams into me two times, and I feel my body release with his. Hudson slows his movements and looks as me. There is a thin sheet of sweat between us. His eyes are full of love, as he grins.

"Are you okay?" He pulls out of me, and there's a small shot of pain again.

I nod. Even though there was a little pain, I feel sore. A strange feeling comes over me. I just had sex.

I had sex with Hudson King, the love of my life.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Hudson

With the curtains open, the sunlight streams through the windows. Ellie is sleeping on her side with her back to me, her bare shoulder peeking from underneath the covers. I love her. It's as simple as that. And to know she trusts and loves me enough for her first time making love to be with me, I'm grateful to have her love. I remembered her joke about Paris, but that wasn't my intention for bringing her here. Ellie has always wanted to visit this place, and I knew that I could make that happen for her. That's why we're in Paris. I want to give her everything she wants because she deserves the world, the moon, and the stars. She should have it all if she wants it.

I place my hand on her hip above the blankets, then lean forward to kiss the top of her shoulder. When she hums, I say softly, "Good morning, beautiful."

Ellie looks at me from over her shoulder and grins. "Morning."

Chuckling, I tell her, "I love your ridiculous bedhead." Her hair is all over the place and while she looks a little crazy, she looks adorable too.

"Um, thanks?" She giggles.

"You're welcome." I wink at her, causing her to laugh again. "How are you feeling this morning?"

She wiggles to lay on her back, my hand moving to her other hip to rest as I use my other to prop my head up. Ellie smiles and says, "Good. How are you feeling?"

"Pretty good." I lean down to kiss her. "What's on our agenda today? Shopping or more sightseeing?" So far, Ellie has had complete control over our activities. This trip is for her, and I want her to do and see everything she wants while we're here. Who knows when we'll be able to make it back to Paris.

"What do you want to do?" She asks.

"Whatever you want to do."

Ellie becomes somewhat serious. "Hudson, I told you that we would do whatever you wanted today."

"And I told you that as long as you're happy, I'm happy. If you really want me to choose, then I would like to take you shopping."

A slight frown appears on her face. "Do your silly rules apply here too?"

"Absolutely," I chuckle before kissing the corner of her mouth, causing her to smile.

"How about today we go shopping and tomorrow, we take the day off."

"Whatever you want, baby."

So that's what we do.

A few months ago, I was on the verge of throwing in the towel. I was tired of relationships going nowhere. I wanted a meaningful, full of love relationship with someone, but I didn't really know who I was looking for until I met Ellie. I love her, my family loves her, and she's simply perfect. We're in Paris, we're in love, and we're happy. There's nothing more I could ask for than that.

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank our readers for joining us on this new series. We hope you'll enjoy these captains as much as we have.

A huge thanks goes to our betas, Andrekia, Beth, Louise, Lucy, and Michael for taking time out of your schedules to read this book and provide great feedback.

We would like to thank Bailey Ardisone for taking the time to create a beautiful cover for us.

We would like to thank Kathy Krick from K² Editing for polishing our book for us.

About the Authors

Lindsay Paige is a romance author from North Carolina who has published seven books on her own. She is a huge hockey fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins and loves to play tennis. When not writing, Lindsay is focused on completing college.

Mary Smith was born in Chicago, Illinois, but currently lives in West Virginia. She is an avid reader, co-founder of Book Nerds Across America, and author of the Ice series and Always Forever. She goes nowhere without her cell phone or Kindle. Mary loves anything to do with Chicago Blackhawks, Patrick Sharp, or is hockey related!!

Despite their love for different teams and players, Lindsay and Mary write hockey romances to vicariously live through their characters and their experiences with these hot hockey players. Together, they have also written The Penalty Kill Trilogy.

For more information about Lindsay,  like her on Facebook.

For more information about Mary, like her on Facebook.

Join us for the next

Oh Captain, My Captain novel

Coming November 11, 2014

A Hockey Player's Proposal

Oh Captain, My Captain presents Brody Ross of the Indiana Mustangs.

Brody Ross was one of the youngest captains in the hockey league. His one and only goal is lift the Cup over his head. That is until he moved next door to Selene Porter. When he approaches her with a proposal, their friendship takes a turn. However, it comes at a price when an ex-flame appears in the picture.

Selene Porter has two loves: her dog, Bonkers, and hockey. She's been a lifelong fan of the Indiana Mustangs and their Captain. She refuses to let anything take away what means so much to her and Brody, his career, and his old fling has her wondering if love is worth the risk.

With the unwanted presence, can Brody and Selene stick together or will Selene back out of the proposal?
