Page 44 of Melt His Heart

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Carson is waiting for me in the lobby to take me home. He insists that he come pick me up. I always tell him he should rest as much as he can. His team is doing well. They’re mid-season, and I know how important that is for him, how intense it must be. Knowing that he’d rather use his free time this way does make my stomach flutter, though.

“I’m proud of you.” He smiles when we reach the car.

“For what?”

“For taking the proper steps, it’s not an easy thing.”

“Oh…Thanks, Carson.” I look down at my shoes, my face hot, “Ah, when we get back, I need to give you something, don’t let me forget.” I say as we get into the car before heading out onto the main road.

“Oh?” He wiggles his brows suggestively.

“It’s just kimchi, Carson.” I deadpan.

“Really now? Did you make it for me? A labor of love.” He says.

“No goofball. It’s a thank you from my mom…” I mumble.

“Ahhh, so you told your mom about me already? Wow.” He grins.

“Don’t get cocky.” I roll my eyes, “How did you even get it in?” He asks, his brows pinching.

“I can’t give away my secrets,” I smirk.

“Well, make sure you tell your mom I said thank you.” He chuckles.

“Of course.” I redden a bit. My mom and Carson communicating through me makes me a bit giddy. I know it’s such a small thing, but it feels like the biggest thing to me.

Chapter 14

The cheers from the crowd bounce around the arena as the guys make the very last score to win. I’ve been trying to go to more of Carson’s home games since returning to America. I hadn’t gone to one since the first time, and I admit I felt bad about that. Training for my new program has been grueling, but I still wanted him to know I support him too.

I jump up in time with them at the sound of the buzzer, no longer shy about my cheerleading Carson on. The more I go, the more I learn about the game. I almost know what’s going on now, and that makes it even more fun. He skates over to where I am, blowing a kiss at me before grinning. My body flushes with heat.

He’s so ridiculous.

I come down to meet him in the standby area, where I wait until the team finishes up their media runs and locker time. Carson peeks his head into the hall, waving me over. He looks so beautifully worn, his eyes low, his face still wet and flushed from his shower.

“Thanks for coming again and waiting up.” He smiles.

“Of course,” I say, playing with my sleeve.

I can’t believe he still makes me nervous. Maybe it’s because I’ve prepared a little something for him. I hope he likes it.

I pull out the box from my bag and hand it to him, “These are for you and the team. They’re good for after games. Just something light. I know you guys are probably going to go drinking or whatever.”

Carson looks down at the snacks, a grin spreading far across his face, “You’re such a sweetheart.”

He pulls me into him, the touch of our bodies brief but still all-consuming.

“Hey! It’s Julian! We won! You coming out with us?” Dillan yells from down the hall. Me and Carson turn to him.

Carson, already shaking his head.

“Oh, uh, maybe not tonight, I have a really crazy session in the morning. Sorry.” I say, my brows furrowing. I really wish I could, but this time it really is because I’m still getting back on track.

“Aww man, that sucks! It’s ok though, maybe next time!”