His Leading Lady: Hollywood Hearts 632i8

HIS LEADING LADY Hollywood Hearts

Table of Contents

Title Page

JEAN C. JOACHIM

Moonlight Books

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Epilogue

THE END

Author Biography

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JEAN C. JOACHIM

Sensual Romance

Moonlight Books

WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. A Moonlight Books Novel Sensual Romance His Leading Lady Copyright © 2014 Jean C. Joachim E-book ISBN: 9781626227859 First E-book Publication: January 2014 Cover design by Dawné Dominique Edited by Tabitha Bower Proofread by Renee Waring All cover art and logo copyright © 2013 by Jean C. Joachim ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental. PUBLISHER Moonlight Books

More romance novels by Jean C. Joachim HOLLYWOOD HEARTS SERIES IF I LOVED YOU RED CARPET ROMANCE MEMORIES OF LOVE MOVIE LOVERS LOVE’S LAST CHANCE LOVERS & LIARS

MANHATTAN DINNER CLUB SERIES Rescue My Heart

NOW AND FOREVER SERIES Now and Forever 1, A Love Story Now and Forever 2, The Book of Danny Now and Forever 3, Blind Love Now and Forever 4, The Renovated Heart Now and Forever 5, Love’s Journey Now and Forever, Callie’s Story (series starter)

MOONLIGHT SERIES

Sunny Days, Moonlit Nights April’s Kiss in the Moonlight Under the Midnight Moon Moonlight and Roses (series starter)

NEW YORK NIGHTS NOVELS The Marriage List The Love List The Dating List Champagne for Christmas

LOST & FOUND SERIES Love, Lost and Found

Dedication To my readers who wanted more about Penny and Mark. Thank you: Steve and Larry Joachim for consultation, Marilyn Lee, JJ’s Book Buddies, Kathleen Ball, the Tuesday Tales writers, Tabitha Bower, my editor, Renee Waring, and professional football players in both leagues for inspiration.

The author acknowledges the trademark status and the following trademark owners mentioned in this work of fiction: Google BMW Gatorade Academy Award

Chapter One

Boom! The beautiful blonde barreled into Mark’s chest right in front of Jean Louis Designs on Rodeo Drive. He grabbed her upper arms to keep her from falling and stared into the biggest, bluest eyes he’d ever seen. The flash of a dazzling white smile, a whiff of lily of the valley perfume, golden hair, and perfect features blurred everything else around him. “I’m so sorry,” she said. Or did she? He was so mesmerized he barely distinguished the words. She stood as transfixed as he, focused on his baby blues, until a man abruptly tapped her shoulder. “We’ll be late, Penny, come on.” “Sorry, I wasn’t looking,” she mumbled. “No harm, no foul,” Mark muttered, his gaze resting on her generous breasts for a moment before returning to her face. Toting a shopping bag in each hand, she smiled at him again and was gone, as quickly as she had arrived. Mark Davis stood in front of the door, transfixed, as if his feet had been embedded in the cement sidewalk. “Come on, buddy, you’re blocking traffic,” Harley Brennan, his best friend and teammate, said, giving him a nudge. Mark snapped out of his reverie and moved away from the tony store. “Wow,” he said. “A hottie. Yeah. A wet dream on legs.” “Penny, huh? Wow.” He shook his head and continued down the street, listening to his buddy with only half an ear. With Harley, Mark returned to the expensive shop several times during his visit to L.A., but he never saw Penny again. Back in Las Vegas, he searched the Internet for two weeks, using her first name with no success, so he finally gave

up. He buried himself in his workouts and practice with his professional football team, the Nevada Gamblers, trying to forget her. He went on blind dates, fix-ups by his teammates, but they never worked out. They weren’t Penny. Even the ones who were guaranteed to sleep with him on the first night held little appeal. He had seen the gold standard and nothing else would do. One Saturday night three months after his encounter with the mysterious Penny, he was at the movies on a double date with Harley. They were resigned to watching a chick flick. Harley had explained to Mark, that if it meant they got laid afterward, it seemed a small price to pay. When the lights went down, it happened. Mark was gazing at a larger-than-life Penny on the silver screen. His mouth went dry, and his pulse speeded up. He let go of the girl whose hand he was holding and simply gawked. When it was over, Harley was anxious to get the girls fed and in bed, but Mark insisted on staying for the credits. And there was her name. “Penny Thatcher,” he mumbled, fumbling in his pockets for something to write it down on. “Yeah, she was all right. But Chaz Duncan is one hot guy,” Mark’s date said. With no pen or paper, Mark was resigned to memorizing her name. He knew it was one he’d never forget. A movie star. Would she even give me the time of day? Probably not. He had a burger with his date, but begged off soon afterward. Sex with her wouldn’t cut it tonight. He’d seen Penny Thatcher again, and no other women existed. All he wanted to do was dive onto his computer and Google her. When he arrived home, he threw down his jacket and began his Internet search. Sure enough, there she was. ing actress in The Natural Girl, the movie he had just seen, and a minor character in a new cop show, Las Vegas Beat. A rookie, second-string quarterback for the Nevada Gamblers, Mark lived in Las Vegas. Maybe they shoot here. Maybe she lives here. His pulse jumped. He looked her up in the white pages, but no Penny Thatcher was listed. Dummy. Actors don’t list themselves in the phonebook. Afraid of crazed fans, like me. He laughed at himself and turned off the machine. He had an early practice, so it

was time for bed. Mark hit the showers after a good workout. He’d connected with the running backs like a seasoned player. His confidence was high. He smiled as he flipped on the faucet. The voices of his teammates trumped the sound of the spray bouncing off his firm muscles, especially the loud voice of the star quarterback, Darvin Sweetwater. “I’d better get laid tonight, Reid,” Sweetwater yelled. “My girl said these two are hot. One’s got a huge rack,” Reid called back. "Come on, Davis," Darvin pulled Mark by the arm. Since he was the only one who agreed to go on blind double dates with Sweetwater, Darvin had no choice on this one. Before they pushed through the locker room door and into the parking lot, Sweetwater said, “I’m expecting some sweet lip action tonight. Woo hoo!” He crowed. “You take the one with the big rack. Usually, I’d take her. I love big racks, but the other one is an actress on that show, Las Vegas Beat. I’ve been jacking to her for the past month, and tonight’s gonna be the real deal. After she does me, I’m gonna fuck her nice and slow.” Couldn’t be Penny. He’s talking about someone else. He wondered if Darvin's crude attitude would turn the women off. “You go first, Davis. I hate blind dates.” Darvin gave Mark a little shove, and he entered the lot slightly ahead of Sweetwater. Two women moved toward them. Holy Shit! It’s her! Mark gulped, his mouth suddenly as dry as the desert surrounding them. “Hi, honey, I’m Tiffany Barker. Who are you?” The woman with the big rack pushed ahead of Penny and extended a hand with huge, bright purple nails. He’d never been into super-sized breasts, preferring something he could get a hold of with only one hand, but her chest was so huge, he couldn’t take his eyes off it. Her eyelashes looked to be two inches long. Her red lipstick and white-blonde hair made her appear cheap. Cringing inside, Mark took her hand and shook it gently.

“Are you Sweetwater?” she asked in a sharp voice. “Just second string, Mark Davis.” Tiffany spied Sweetwater strutting their way, not far behind Mark. When she made a beeline for Darvin, Mark turned to face Penny. A slender young woman with ample, but much smaller breasts than Tiffany, the actress wore almost no makeup and looked so beautiful Mark couldn’t speak. This was the girl, the one who had knocked into him in front of that fancy store. She flashed him her bright smile, her blue eyes clear, lashes all her own, and he melted inside. She extended her hand. “Penny Thatcher.” “I know who you are. I’m a big fan,” he gushed. Shut up, Davis! You sound like a lovesick teenager. She blushed and cast her gaze to the ground. A humble, hottie actress. Imagine that. “Thanks.” Sweetwater shoved Mark aside and introduced himself to both ladies. They divided up into two cars, Mark and Tiffany in one, Darvin and Penny in another. Tiffany, obviously annoyed at ending up with Mark, made a face as she moved toward his modest car, while Penny lowered herself into Darvin’s twoseater BMW. If Tiffany wanted to upset Mark, she’d be disappointed. He had no interest in her. He only had eyes for Penny. The only thought on his mind was Sweetwater’s plan to seduce her before the night was over. They went to Steak on the House, Darvin’s favorite restaurant. Drinks arrived quickly as Darvin demanded and received fast service, since he was a big spender and famous in Las Vegas as the darling of their home team. Tiffany couldn’t keep her eyes off him, so Mark didn’t feel any compunction about turning toward Penny when he raised his wine glass and said, “To be in the company of a beautiful woman is a rare treasure.” Penny colored and clinked her glass with his. Darvin stared darts at Mark. Yeah, Darvin, I’m no genius, but I’m smarter than you, asshole. Mark smiled at Penny. He watched his teammate struggle to come up with a better toast and chuckled to himself. I outclassed the jerk-off, and he can’t stand it. A legend in his own mind. Uh oh.

Suddenly, Mark envisioned Darvin taking revenge on the practice field. Tough shit. I’m just as good as you...maybe better. Bring it on. Mark tried to keep the hostility out of his eyes, but wasn’t sure if he succeeded. When the food arrived, Darvin dug into his thick, rare steak with enthusiasm. He kept making raunchy comments, comparing eating his beef to sex. He put his hand on Penny’s thigh several times and leered at her. She tried to laugh it off, but Mark saw her furrowed brow and noticed her repeatedly pushing Sweetwater away. Anger rose in his chest. She’s a lady, you asswipe. Not a piece of meat for you to devour. "Back off, Darvin. Can't you see you’re making her uncomfortable?" “When I want your opinion, I’ll give it to you,” Darvin spit back. “In a test of wits, Sweets, you come up empty...so, bring it on.” Mark silently thanked his twin sister, Megan, for tutoring him in college, forcing him to learn. “I’ll wipe the floor with you, Davis,” Sweetwater growled. “Not in a game of intelligence.” “Come on, baby. Don’t get upset. Let’s get outta here. Why don’t you come to my place for...uh...dessert?” Tiffany cooed, placing her hands around Darvin’s huge biceps. He looked at Tiffany then at Penny. “You want to come along and make it a threesome?” He licked his lips as his gaze raked over Penny’s body. “Uh...not really. Not my thing. Don’t worry about me. I’ll grab a cab home,” Penny said. “I can drive you home,” Mark piped up. “It’s okay. Really.” She raised her hand, and her voice shook. He cursed silently. Shit. She thinks I’m gonna jump her. Attack her, like Darvin. I’m nothing like him. Darvin narrowed his eyes, and a slow, evil grin played at his lips. “Fine, Penny,

if that’s what you want. Leave Davis here by himself. Let’s go, Tiffany.” Darvin stood up, reached into his back pocket, and pulled out his wallet. He dropped two one-hundred dollar bills on the table then handed a twenty to Penny. “Here’s for your cab. You’re one hot chick.” Darvin took Tiffany’s hand. “I’ll see you on the field, Davis. Better watch your back...bro.” Sweetwater laughed as he and Tiffany left. Penny twirled the twenty dollars in her fingers. Her gaze dropped to her hands then up to her water glass. She folded, unfolded, and refolded the money. Oh, my God. She’s afraid of me. “Hey, look. Do whatever makes you comfortable,” Mark said, resting his hand on hers lightly for only a moment. She jumped at the touch, fear evident on her face. “I’m not going to hurt you, try to take advantage of you...or anything. I’m a regular guy. I’ve got a sister. I like women, respect ’em.” Penny continued to twist the twenty. “I’d better go.” “If that’s what you want. But I’m going to have another cup of coffee, and I was considering dessert.” Penny turned frightened eyes on him as she began to stand up. She looks like a deer caught in the headlights. Make her feel safe, you idiot! “No, no, real dessert. I hear they have great hot fudge here. How about splitting a hot fudge sundae with me? Three scoops—all your choice. Or you can catch a taxi, if that makes you feel safer.” Penny sat down and blew out a breath. “I love hot fudge. How did you know?” “Everybody loves hot fudge, especially me.” He smiled at her and signaled to the server, who came over right away. She rattled off six flavors of ice cream. “You choose,” Mark said, gesturing with his hand. “I like ’em all.” “Hmm, let’s see. Mint chip for sure, vanilla, and how about coffee?” Penny turned to look at him.

“Sounds good. Whipped cream and two cherries, please.” The waitress nodded, refilled their coffee cups, and left. Mark couldn’t help looking at Penny’s chest. Not huge, just right. Big enough to fill my hands. His fingers tingled at the thought of touching her, so he tore his gaze away and focused on her face again. “I’m sorry. I don’t mean to act like a baby. I’m twenty-five, not five, but he scared the crap out of me. Is he always so...so...aggressive on a first date?” She added sugar to her mug. “Don’t know. This is the first time I’ve doubled with him. I’m kinda new here. So when Reid offered to fix us up...well, seemed like a good idea. I didn’t know you were coming.” “Oh? I was selected for Darvin. Got it.” She nodded. “Yeah. He was uh...looking forward to...uh...being...uh with you.” Mark could feel the blood rush up his neck. “It’s okay. I figured out pretty quick what he was after. He’s not the first, and probably not the last, jerk who’s dying to make it with an actress.” She gave a short, mirthless laugh. He’ll be the last who tries to take advantage of you, if I have something to say about it. “Guess a woman as pretty as you comes across this kinda stuff all the time.” She nodded and added cream to her drink then took a sip. Mark stole another glance at her cleavage while she was distracted. Great rack. “Most guys aren’t usually that...uh...obvious.” She licked a drop of coffee from her lip. “Sweetwater is his own biggest fan. I’m surprised they make a helmet big enough to fit him.” Mark’s gaze zeroed in on her soft, pink, inviting mouth. He wanted to kiss her. Penny laughed. “Thinks he’s God’s gift to the world, does he?” “Definitely. His day’ll come. He’s not too big to fall. Nobody is. I only hope I’m there to see it.” The waitress returned with the biggest dish of ice cream Mark

had ever seen. He let out a low whistle and grinned. “We’re gonna be here all night trying to eat this thing,” he turned it around and reached for a utensil. “All night?” She cocked an eyebrow at him. “I didn’t mean...” “I know you didn’t. Just messing with you,” she chuckled, picking up her spoon. He let out a nervous laugh. Sharp sense of humor, like Megan. Gotta be on my toes.

****

Penny’s gaze was riveted to Mark’s eyes. They’re blue green. Never seen anything like them. “Do I have hot fudge on my forehead or something?” Blood heated her cheeks. She shook her head. Caught gawking at this gorgeous guy. Bad form, Penny. “You’re fine,” she said between spoonfuls of ice cream. More than fine, but I’m not telling you that. One swellheaded athlete a day is enough. Mark dug his spoon into the cold confection and scooped up some mint chip and fudge sauce. Penny’s gaze moved slowly down his straight nose, sexy lips, and firm chin, all the way down to his chest. God, shoulders as wide as the Grand Canyon. Are all quarterbacks this hunky? Well, not Sweetwater. Creeped me out. “You learned about women from your sister?” She scooped up some coffee flavor and topping. “Megan. My twin sister.” “Twin?” Her eyes widened. “Yeah. Fraternal twin. Meg and I have been Frick and Frack since we were born.

She’s getting her M.B.A. at Harvard. This is the longest we’ve been separated.” “Miss her?” “Sure do.” “It’s refreshing to hear a brother it his misses his sister.” “She needs someone to look out for her.” “What about your parents?” “My mom can barely handle her own life. My dad isn’t around.” She picked up a bitter tone when he mentioned his father. Wonder what that’s about. Mark dipped his spoon into the mint chip and offered it to her. She opened, and he shoveled the confection in. Penny closed her lips over the food while making eye with him. Is it hot in here? He’s sexy. The ice cream cooled her some, but not enough. “Do you feed your sister, too?” “Hell, no!” He grinned. The next spoonful came from Penny to Mark. He opened wide. His gaze locked on hers then traveled down to her mouth. Her tongue darted out to moisten her lips, burned by his stare. Desire flashed briefly in his eyes before he looked away from her. A man who loves his sister and feeds me ice cream. Where have you been hiding? It took them almost an hour to finish the sundae. Mark ate the lion’s share, as Penny had to curb her calorie intake. She was satisfied fairly quickly and enjoyed watching him chow down. He must burn up a ton of calories every day. He’s trim. Her gaze trailed down his chest to his hips. Bet he’s got washboard abs under that shirt. Hope I get a chance to find out. Not tonight! Girl, slow down. Penny took a deep breath then hid her embarrassment at her own thoughts by

picking up her water glass for a sip. “Are you convinced I’m not a rapist?” She grinned at him. “Will you let me drive you home?” “Only if you give this twenty back to Darvin.” Penny handed the bill to Mark. “I’d like to shove it, but hell, yeah. I’ll return it to him. So, you’re coming with me?” “Why not?” Mark paid the bill and pushed to his feet. He placed his hand on Penny’s lower back to guide her out to his SUV. The warmth from his touch sent a small sizzle up her spine. He opened the car door. He’s a gentleman now, but is he going to jump me in the front seat? When we get home? I hope not. She snapped the seatbelt on and sat back. Apprehension mixed with curiosity about this attractive man filled her mind. Her fingers played with the strap on her handbag as he put the vehicle in gear. Mark pulled into the parking lot of the building where Penny lived and killed the motor. He inched his hand closer to hers until they were touching. Can I see you again?” His gaze met hers. “Maybe.” “Maybe?” “Look. Mark, you seem like a nice guy, but I’m not into one-night stands, hooking up, or friends with benefits. I’m serious about my career and don’t want to end up in the tabloids, or screwed and dumped because you’re curious.” “Wow. A bit defensive, aren’t we?” “If you’ve had to deal with the crap that’s come my way, you’d be like this, too. Even guys who seem nice end up in a wrestling match. Star fucking is a popular hobby. I don’t play.”

“Does that mean you don’t date?” “I don’t date much. I’m very choosy.” “Guess that lets me out, huh?” Crap! Didn’t mean to shoot him down. She placed her hand on his arm. “I didn’t mean that.” “So, you do want to go out with me? I’m confused.” “Could we start slow?” “Snail’s pace. Promise.” He raised his right hand and crossed his heart with the other. “Okay.” She blew out a breath. “How about we...uh...go bowling?” She laughed. “I haven’t gone bowling since high school. Sure. Great idea.” “Is there a bowling alley around here?” “Dunno. You recommended it, without knowing if there’s one near here?” “It was the first safe thing that came to mind.” “You’re funny. Go look it up. I have no clue.” She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. After gathering up her sweater and purse, she opened the car door. Mark’s hand on her shoulder stopped her. “Wait. When? What time?” Penny bit her lip and rolled her eyes. “Let’s see. How about Friday night?” “This Friday?” She nodded. “Can’t. Game on Saturday. I never go out the night before a game. Saturday night?”

“Sure. Can I come to the game?” “I’ll have a ticket waiting at the box office for you. Two o’clock.” She smiled. “Sounds great!” “We’ll catch some dinner then bowling?” “You’re on.” “Can I have your number?” She plucked his phone off the seat, punched her number in, and then saved it. “Call me, then I’ll have yours, too.” Mark leaned over and brushed her lips lightly with his. “Thanks for the dessert,” she said. “You’re welcome.” “Until Saturday, then. Good luck, by the way.” He smiled. She closed the door and stopped at the entrance to her building. Touching her lower lip with her finger, she watched him drive away. Could he be real? They don’t make ’em like that anymore.

Chapter Two

Saturday was a sunny day in Las Vegas. Penny took special care dressing. Be pretty, but not too sexy. A football game, dinner, and bowling. What to wear? She pulled out a pair of khaki pants and a dark pink cotton sweater. The sweater had a scoop neck, showing a hint of cleavage. A gold chain and earrings plus a bracelet helped set off the outfit without being fussy. Don’t want to have to keep track of a scarf today. Satisfied with her reflection in the mirror, she gave herself a spray of perfume, grabbed a light jacket, and headed out the door. When she pulled into the parking lot, her heartbeat quickened as a slight zing of apprehension shot through her. I hope he’s as nice as he seems, and I don’t run into that ass, Darvin Sweetwater. If these big guys decide you’re having sex, it’s impossible to fight them off. Penny shook off her apprehension, parked her car, and went to the box office. There was a ticket with her name on it and a note.

Penny,

Wait for me after the game. I’ll be out about twenty minutes after the last whistle. Meet me at my car.

Mark

P. S. Thanks for coming.

She entered the temperature-controlled stadium and took her seat. The location was perfect, about ten rows up from the field and right behind the Gambler’s bench. A quick glance around told her she was in the wives’ and girlfriends’ section. A feeling of awkwardness combined with a bit of pride at being there. She shifted in her seat. The players weren’t out yet. Announcements from the loudspeaker echoed through the cavernous building. A few warm smiles came her way from other attractive young women sitting in the same area. She returned the greeting and settled back. Within fifteen minutes, the men took the field. A little thrill shot through her heart. I’m dating one of those guys. She searched the team, looking for Mark. Damn, he never told me his number. Her gaze hopped from face to face, until she found one looking back and smiling. She grinned. Number fifteen. Got it. Everyone stood up when the national anthem began to play. The Gamblers won the toss and elected to receive the kickoff. Her skin crawled when she noticed Darvin Sweetwater sitting on the bench near Mark. Pig. It wasn’t long before the Wyoming Wild Cats lost the ball and Darvin trotted onto the field. He was a hair shorter than Mark, but wider. He looked powerful as he went into formation. Benches near her filled up, and the cheering became intense. The Gamblers were ahead by halftime. Penny’s gaze met Mark’s as the team ran off the field for a break. He gave her a nod before he left. “Which one is your husband?” the woman next to her asked. “Oh, I’m not married. I’m dating Mark Davis.” “Davis? He’s good. Nice guy, too,” the woman said as she rose up and stretched. “Thank you.” Penny smiled at her. Am I dating him? One date. That’s all. It’s not really dating. “Sue Stockton, Mike Stockton’s wife,” the woman said, with a nod. “Penny Thatcher.” “As long as Sweetwater stays healthy, Davis’ll never get to play,” Sue continued.

“My husband’s the kicker. Hasn’t missed a field goal in twenty-six tries.” She offered her hand to Penny, who took it. “I don’t know much about football,” Penny said. Sue sat down and turned to face her. “Say, don’t I know you from somewhere?” “I have that kind of face. Could you tell me more about the game?” The woman dropped her questioning and launched into a detailed explanation of how the game was played and the strengths and weaknesses of the team. The Gamblers received the ball in the second half and began to run away with the game. “He might get a chance now. If they get one more touchdown...” Sue began. And sure enough, Darvin threw another touchdown . The score was thirtyfive to ten with three minutes left to play. Penny leaned forward, twisting a tissue. “Punter’s out sick today. Mike’ll do the kick off,” Sue said, a gleam of pride in her smile. The Wildcats took the ball a few yards before the runner was taken down. It didn’t take long for them to lose possession. One interception by a defenseman, and it was the Gambler’s turn to drive to the goal line again. “Do you think Mark’ll get to play?” Penny asked. “Yep. Looks like they’re sending him in.” Sue said, pointing to number fifteen pushing to his feet. “Coach usually sends in the second string for some practice when they’re way ahead.” A little thrill shot through Penny when Mark glanced at her for a second before covering his sunny, blond hair with his helmet and trotting onto the field. Her heart thumped, and her palms went damp. Suddenly, Mark’s performance mattered. She hardly knew him, but she wanted him to succeed. Not just to best the obnoxious, full-of-himself Darvin Sweetwater, but to win out because he was good, the best. He seemed so nice, so real.

Her gaze was riveted to the field, and she held her breath. If he’s good, he’ll become more famous than I am. She smiled at the image of being interrupted at dinner by people asking for his autograph. The huddle broke, and Penny focused her thoughts and attention on Mark.

****

Mark nodded once to Penny, then put his helmet on and ran out on the field. His pulse quickened. Playing was enough of a thrill, but doing it in front of the girl who’d captured his dreams night after night was the chance of a lifetime. He uttered a silent prayer his offensive line would protect him long enough for him to get off a great . He made eye with his friend, Harley Brennan, a wide receiver. Harley grinned a knowing smile and glanced at the stands. Mark raised his eyebrows for a second before calling the play. When the ball was snapped, Mark’s total concentration was on the game. He dropped back. The line held long enough for him to fire a shot at Gam Leadbetter, who was about fifteen yards out and not covered. Gam plucked the ball out of the air and ran for a few more yards before he was brought down. Adrenaline surged through Mark’s veins. He was so focused, he didn’t even hear the crowd cheering. When the huddle broke, he handed the ball off to Harley, who ran for twelve more yards for another first down. Mark was pumped. Again, they huddled. This time, one of their tackles slipped up, and Wyoming’s middle linebacker broke through the line. He was enormous and charging straight for Mark. Before he even blinked, his football instinct kicked in. Mark faked right, then cut left, sidestepped the defender diving for him, and took off. Finding a hole in the defense, he ran for eleven yards then slid in just before being tackled. The crowd went wild. Mark could do no wrong. Smart enough not to let his luck go to his head, he calmly broke the huddle and took the ball back for another throw. Again, he landed a bullet, this time in Harley’s arms. Touchdown!

A warm feeling of satisfaction traveled through him. A peek at the stands confirmed that Penny, on her feet cheering, had seen it all. Mike Stockton loped on the field to kick for the extra point. Mark headed for the bench. He removed his helmet and sank down on the seat. “Don’t let a few lucky plays go to your head, Davis, you douche bag,” Darvin said. “Luck had nothing to do with it.” “Call me when you get to my level, in about ten years.” “Go fuck yourself.” A stern look from the coach silenced Mark. Darvin made a face behind the coach’s back. I’m not going to let this asshole take away my victory. Turning his head, Mark directed his gaze toward the stands again. Penny was watching him. He lifted his hand in a brief wave, and she smiled. Darvin turned to see who Mark was looking at. “You fucking piece of shit! She’s mine.” “In your dreams,” Mark said. “She was my date.” “Shut the hell up, and watch the game!” the coach growled at the two quarterbacks. Mark faced forward, returning his attention to the action. Damn, only forty-five seconds left to play. I won’t get back on the field. He frowned. Playing time for second-stringers was always in short supply. Unless a starter got injured, the others had to bide their time. Frustration built up and some quit. Others tried out for different teams. Mark was grateful to have the job. He made a good salary, just over three hundred grand a year, which he needed desperately. Mark’s father had taken a powder when he was just a teenager. Since then, he’d shouldered the burden that should have rested on his dad. He was paying off the one hundred and sixty thousand dollar debt for his and his sister’s college

educations at Kensington State University. He was also paying forty thousand a year for his sister’s Master’s degree at Harvard. And he was giving his mother money every month to supplement her meager teacher’s pension and social security. While other players lived in spacious houses on a half-acre of land, Mark rented a two-bedroom apartment. He had just enough room for himself and a place for Megan to crash when she came to visit. Resentment crept into his tone whenever he referred to his dad, who had left without a trace and never ed the family again. Mark had adored him, worshipped him. His father had been the one who had taught him to throw a football and do math. When he had left, Mark had been devastated. While Meg waited, sure their father would return, Mark had given up. His love had soured into hate. He refused to talk about his dad and forbid Meg from bringing him into conversation. Even with his impressive salary, there wasn’t a ton of money left over for dating. Meg’s conservative financial advice had Mark saving every dime he could, in case he got injured. He itted that he worried about that possibility, too. What would he do if he got hurt, couldn’t play, and got cut from the team? Who would take care of Meg and his mom? His sister set up a savings plan for him. She assured him that after her education was complete, she’d find a job with the biggest salary she could get, so Mark wouldn’t have to shoulder such a big burden alone. He didn’t know much about finance or opportunities for lucrative jobs for women, so he simply planned to be ing her forever. Worry about Penny’s expectations entered his mind. Will she be happy with cheaper dates? I can’t drop a couple hundred on dinner every week. Bet she’s used to high rollers. Maybe I’m in over my head. The whistle blew, signaling the end of the game. Mark smiled. A victory and a date with Penny. Doesn’t get any better than this. Darvin ran up next to him as they trotted toward the locker room. “You stole my girl. I’ll get you for that,” he whispered. “She was never your girl. Let it go, Darvin.”

“Watch your back, newbie.” Darvin dropped back to slap his wide receivers on the back while he shot Mark an evil look.

****

Penny’s voice was a little hoarse from cheering. She stopped in the ladies room to freshen her makeup and comb her hair before meeting Mark. Watching him in action, she had been impressed. He had been powerful, quick, accurate, and graceful. She got goose bumps at the idea that a star athlete like him was her date. He was the guy at Jean Louis. I ran into him. Like running into a brick wall. She recalled losing herself for a few moments in his blue eyes the day she had smacked into him. She had been intrigued, but her companion, one of the actors from her show, had pulled her away before she could find out his identity. Mark was handsome and appeared to be normal, respectful. Although that wasn’t certain yet, she relished being in his company again. There was something about him that had made her feel safe. It was an unusual sensation for Penny, and she treasured it. Her exceptional looks had not brought her an easy life. Close to her mother, the young teen was crushed when she died suddenly of an aneurysm. Her mom had entered her in beauty contests and started her modeling at a young age. Her father had doted on them, until her mother ed. He was lost without his smart wife and soon began to drown his sorrow in alcohol. As a young teenager, Penny continued to model. When her father began to fall apart, he leaned more and more on her. Missing work often due to hangovers or binges led to his getting fired. As money became scarce, her father relied on her earnings to pay the rent and put food on the table. Penny had worked hard, long sessions under hot lights in addition to attending school. Her social life took a backseat, as she had so little free time. When her dad was out of control, she had been ashamed to have friends over. Too often, she’d had to retrieve him from one bar or another when he was drunk. Being called away from a school dance or a party to corral her father was humiliating.

It wasn’t long before she gave up having her own life. Penny had counted the days until her eighteenth birthday. On that day, she had packed up and moved out, using the small bankroll she’d been able to squirrel away, hiding a few dollars here and a few dollars there from her old man. She had fled her home in Indiana and set down roots in sunny California. Modeling and acting classes helped her land some commercials and print ads. She even won a plum job as a model for a clothing catalog. She saved every cent she could, rooming with others in small, cheap apartments. She had managed to get away from her father and covered her tracks, changing her name and never having a phone or apartment listed. But she looked over her shoulder constantly, wondering when he would resurface next, drunk and demanding money for rehab and living expenses. It had been a hard life, but she had breathed free and began to make friends and go out on dates, until her father had tracked her down. He had been sick, so she had moved back in with him temporarily, unable to turn away her only living relative. He always promised to change, to get sober, earn a living, but he never did. She stopped believing. The shame of his drunkenness never left Penny. She didn’t tell her friends about him. Instead, she said he was dead, saving herself from probing questions. A strong desire for a storybook life, including a three-bedroom house with a small lawn and a white picket fence haunted her. Vivid, happy memories of her early years were locked in her heart. Often at night, she’d dream of a private and simple existence, having a man who adored her, children, and work she loved. She searched for the one man she could rely on, the one who would fulfill her dreams, but he never materialized. Happiness had eluded Penny. As stunning as she was, she attracted the wrong kind of man. Secretly, she wondered if the shy man hanging back was the one who could make her feel loved, secure, and protected. But those men were afraid to approach her, so she had never tested her theory. Brash men, seducers, shallow men, and s were the ones who pushed aside the sincere guys to get to her. They always broke her heart.

After many bad encounters, she grew wary, hiding her heart behind a protective wall, waiting to meet the one man who would understand. The one man who could pull her under his wing, care for her, and rescue her from pain. Still, she wasn’t sure that even the right man could earn her trust. Maybe I’m beyond the ability to trust a man? Penny leaned against Mark’s car, wondering which group he fit into, hoping he was the one she sought. Lost in her thoughts, she didn’t see him approach. When he touched her shoulder, she jumped. “Did I scare you?” She nodded. “Sorry. You looked so serious.” “It’s nothing.” “Thanks for coming and cheering me on. I swear I did better because you were here.” She smiled at him. “It’s exciting to watch you. You were amazing.” He blushed and looked down at his shoes. “Just what I do.” She touched his arm. He seized the opportunity to draw her into his embrace. His strong hug eased her mind. The warmth of his body relaxed her muscles. Tension drained from her as she softened against him. He stroked her hair. “Ready?” “Let’s go.” She stepped back and moved around to the enger side of the SUV. “You like Italian food?” he asked. “Love it.” “Good. I’ve got the name of a place that’s supposed to be great, and it’s not far from the bowling alley.”

We’re really going bowling? Great! He’s not going to try to get me into bed after dinner? He might be a keeper. Don’t rush it, girl. Things have started out like this before. “We’re really going bowling?” “Of course. What did you think?” He glanced over at her for a moment before directing his gaze back to the road. “I...I...didn’t know what to think.” “I’m pretty good, too.” “Oh? Is that a challenge?” She tried not to smile. “Are you up to it?” His eyes twinkled. “Bring it on, baby.” The Italian restaurant had not been fantastic, but what the food lacked was made up for by the company. Mark talked about how he had come to love football, his sister, and his plans for the future. Penny listened closely. She was thankful not to have to talk about herself, hide the truth of her past, and was captivated by the humor and seriousness of the young athlete. “I have to tell you something,” he said, squirming slightly in his seat. Oh, shit. He’s got a wife and two kids. The good ones are always married. She sat fidgeting with her napkin, fighting a sense of dread. “I’m sure you’re used to rich guys taking you to fancy places. I make good money, but I have...uh...financial obligations,” he began. “Are you married?” She couldn’t keep the note of irritation out of her voice. He laughed. “Married? No way. Nope. I’m paying off our college loans, and I help my mom.” Relieved, Penny smiled at him. “That’s all?” “Oh, and there’s Megan’s Master’s, too. Forgot that.” Whew! He is a good guy, maybe. “That’s refreshing, Mark.”

“Refreshing to be in debt, to be poor? Well, not exactly poor, but not rich, by a long shot. Not like the starting guys.” She leaned over and kissed his cheek. He grinned at her. “You’re wrong. I don’t go on fancy dates with rich men. I don’t date much at all.” “You don’t? A gorgeous girl like you? Why not?” “Too many men out for only one thing. Everyone wants to screw an actress then brag about it. I don’t want to end up in the tabloids and destroy my career.” Is he really a good guy, or is he just out for sex, like the rest? He keeps staring at my chest. “Never thought about that.” “I’ve already made enough bad choices for a lifetime.” “I’m not like that.” “No? But you’re attracted to me, right? I bumping into you in front of Jean Louis.” Time to put you to the test, Mr. Quarterback. Mark blushed. “You that? Geez, thought I was the only one. Yeah, you made an impression on me.” “An impression?” “I was attracted to you right away.” “A physical thing, though, because you didn’t know me.” His color grew deeper. “Is that a crime? Guys always want to sleep with beautiful women. Doesn’t mean we act on it...all the time. I mean, I want to get to know you, and...” Her eyes narrowed as she watched him stumble over his words. “Do you? Or is this about beating out Darvin Sweetwater? Am I a conquest? Would you brag to Sweetwater that you made it with me and he didn’t?” “No, no, nothing like that.” Mark shook his head.

“Really?” She watched him redden. Have I caught him? Revealed his true motive? Or is he tongue-tied for another reason? Penny wiped her mouth with her napkin and put it on the table. She picked up her purse. “I thought you were different. Wrong again.” She stood up. Mark grabbed her arm. “Wait! Don’t go. Sit down. Can’t we talk about this?” “What’s to talk about?” “Give me a chance. Hey, come on.” “Why should I waste my time?” She shrugged. “Because I’m asking you to. Please?” She sat down, and her lips formed a thin line. “Talk.” “Yeah, I don’t know you. Guys pick girls by the way they look sometimes. Okay, most of the time. And yeah, it’s about sex. That’s the way we’re wired. But that’s not all it is for me. I’m not into one-night stands.” “Oh?” She arched an eyebrow. “And you wouldn’t sleep with me, if I offered?” “Hell, yeah, of course I would. Do you want me to lie? But I wouldn’t disappear in the morning. If I liked you, and I do, I’d want to stick around.” “For a convenient hook-up?” She arched her eyebrows. “Sex on demand?” It was Mark’s turn to frown. “You’re twisting my words. Obviously, I’m guilty until proven innocent. Hey, if you don’t like men and don’t like sex, what’re we doing here? You’re right, this isn’t working. I misjudged you. I’ll take you home.” “Wait, wait. Maybe I’ve been hasty.” “It’s okay. I understand.” He pushed out his chair. “I’m not a lesbian.” “You don’t have to be a lesbian to hate sex. I’m just not interested in a foreverplatonic relationship. No harm, no foul.” He raised his palm.

“I didn’t say that.” “Didn’t you? You’re all up in my face because I have normal desires toward you.” “It’s not that. Just that I’ve gone out with too many men who only wanted that.” “Okay, point taken. I’ll get the check.” “You’re not interested?” “Not anymore. It’s okay. I’ve been on plenty of dates that didn’t work out. That’s why I’m single.” He motioned to the waiter. Panic seized Penny. She’d never met anyone like Mark, and she liked him. More than she was ready to it to herself. Now, she was losing him, or had she already lost him? Words failed her. This attractive man who made her feel safe was slipping through her fingers. I drove him away. Why did I do that? Why am I so defensive all the time? Penny tried to rectify things, to put them back on an even keel, but Mark wasn’t listening. He’s already made up his mind that I’m a cold bitch. And I sounded like that, true. But I’m not. Please, Mark, give me another chance. They drove home in silence. Penny searched her brain for the right words, but Mark didn’t respond. I hurt him. How can I fix this? She made small talk, and he replied with one word answers. Mark walked her up to her door. She touched his shoulder, but he didn’t react. “No goodnight kiss?” It sounded feeble, even to Penny’s ears. “What for?” Mark stepped back. “Thanks for your honesty. You’ve saved me a lot of time and money. And heartache.” “Oh my God, Mark. Please. I’m sorry. I’ve misjudged you. Please give me another chance.” “Why should I? You’re not interested in me. Maybe not in any man. Or some ideal of a man who isn’t interested in sex. Good luck with that. It’s been eye opening, Penny. I’m glad I met you. Good luck with your career.”

He leaned down, kissed her cheek, and was back behind the wheel before she could say or do anything. Tears burst through as she watched the car disappear into the night. What have I done? Ruined the best thing to come along in years.

Chapter Three

Mark returned to his apartment and flopped down on the bed. Shit! His bubble was burst. His dream woman had become a nightmare. Penny Thatcher is a cold, sex-hating bitch. Damn! Sadness filled his heart. He had already fallen half in love with her before their date. When he had rescued her from Darvin, she had seemed so sweet and vulnerable, funny and charming. But tonight, she had interrogated him, expecting the worst. He was embarrassed to be so transparent about wanting to sleep with her. I guess all guys want to sleep with women who look like her. She thought he was an evil, fuck-and-run kind of guy, a guy who wanted to seduce and abandon her. But that wasn’t who he was. He wanted to fall in love with her, and now that would never happen. How could I be so wrong about her? Did I think she was the sweet character she plays on TV and in the movies? Was I naïve, stupid? He wanted to get to know her—her favorite color, food hates, if she likes dogs or prefers cats—but tonight’s conversation had shut everything down. He was depressed. So, he called his sister. “Hey, Squirt.” “Hey, yourself. What’s wrong?” “Nothing. What makes you say that?” “You always call me when you’re down. What happened?” “Well, I had a date with Penny Thatcher tonight...” “That chick from TV? Wow. Stepping up in the world.” “That’s what I thought. But it was a disaster.” Mark went on to explain what happened. Megan did what she could to soothe his ruffled feathers, but he was still sad.

“Wait a week or two and call her. Maybe she was having a bad day.” “Maybe it was her time...of the...you know.” “Yeah, maybe. If you liked her that much, it’s doubtful you could be so wrong. Besides, you’ll be mooning over her forever, if you don’t find out for sure.” “You’re probably right. Thanks, Squirt.” “Anytime, Lug. Gotta go.” “Hot date?” “Are you kidding? Exam tomorrow.” “Good luck, Meg.” “You, too.” Mark hung up the phone. He grabbed a beer and turned on the television, but nothing could distract him from Penny. Why couldn’t she be the girl I thought she was? He sucked down the brew and went to the window. Loneliness crept into his soul. He’d built Penny up to be the girl of his dreams, the one who would warm his bed and his heart forever. Now, he had to it that was a pipedream. Penny was flesh and blood, with good points and bad, like everyone else. No fairy princess. And the letdown was huge. He undressed and slipped into the sack, hoping she had deserted his dreams. He slept fitfully and woke up tired the next morning. For the next two weeks, Mark threw himself into working out and practicing with the team. He turned his focus toward football and tried to forget about Penny. He even stopped watching her show. Harley bombarded him with questions about her, but Mark fended them off like he straight-armed opponents. He wasn’t going to talk about her. Darvin Sweetwater asked about her, too, but Mark gave him the silent treatment. He dressed for the game against the Florida Falcons and loped out onto the field with his teammates. Harley leaned over and whispered to him.

“You broke up? Liar. She’s there. In the stands.” Mark whipped around and searched for her. There, in a seat as near the family section as you could get without being family, was Penny Thatcher. She caught his eye and nodded. He nodded back. What the hell is she doing here? Fortunately for Mark, the Falcons proved to be a good team, and he never got called to go into the game. His head wasn’t in it. After the last whistle, he showered and dressed quickly, ignoring the insults thrown at him by Sweetwater. When he came out, there was Penny, lounging against his car. His heart leapt up. Slow down. She’s not interested. Then, what’s she doing here? Knowing he should be polite, but unable to control himself, he blurted out, “What the hell are you doing here?” Penny straightened up and backed away, almost as if she had been slapped. Her face colored. “Nice to see you, too.” “I asked you a question.” Don’t be such a hard ass. Give her a chance. “I wanted to see you. Is that a crime?” He noticed tears in the corners of her eyes. You idiot! Now, you’ve made her cry. “No crime. Just didn’t think you were interested in an oversexed guy like me.” She laughed. “Are you oversexed?” “Haven’t had any complaints from the ladies in that department.” He opened the door. Manners. What would Meg say? “Thanks for coming to the game and for stopping by to say hello.” She grabbed his arm. “Wait. Can’t we go for a drink or something? Won’t you give me another chance?” “Why? You had me pegged with no second chance. Why should I offer one to you? You made it pretty clear you’re not interested in a relationship that includes sex, and I am. What’s to talk about?” “That’s not true.”

“So, now you do want to sleep with me? Make up your mind.” “Please. Can’t I buy you a drink? Do I have to beg?” Her eyes were so sad, he melted. What are you doing? Being so cruel to this beautiful woman? Don’t punish her. Hear her out. You won’t be any worse off than you are now. “Why don’t you come over to my place? I have margarita mix, beer. We won’t be disturbed there. I promise not to touch you.” “Sounds great. The privacy and margarita, not the no touching,” she said. “Follow me. Then, you can leave whenever you want.” “Thanks.” Opening the door of his apartment, he silently thanked the woman who cleaned for him that she had picked up his dirty clothes and did the laundry. “Surprisingly clean for a bachelor pad,” she said. “Making judgments before I even mix the drinks?” “You’re right. There I go again. I’m sorry.” The silence hung heavy as he made a margarita for her, grabbed a beer for himself, and opened a bag of pretzels. Penny sat on the sofa, and Mark purposely sat in a seat facing her. She wore a simple, feminine dress in a lavender print with short sleeves and a full skirt. When she leaned over a little, he got a great view. Her eyes looked sad. Funny, he hadn’t noticed that before. Still, she looked so beautiful, he could hardly breathe. How can I still want her when I know what she is? Do I really know what she is? His gaze rested on the swell of her breasts then the curve of her hips. Her body was not skinny, but generous in the right places, and looking at her made his fingers itch. “This is your show. I’m listening.” He leaned back in his chair, putting the bottle to his lips. “It’s a long, complicated story, I’m afraid.” “I’ve got time.” Try to keep an open mind. Penny took a big swig then began her

tale. As she talked about her life, her father, and his alcoholism, Mark leaned forward, staring into her eyes. She’s telling the truth. “My job on the show isn’t secure. I can be written out at any time. I’m not very good, and I’m sure they’ll be unloading me soon.” “I don’t think so. I watch the show, and I think you’re great.” “You do?” Her face brightened. “Yeah, I do. Go on.” Penny continued to talk about her father stalking her and making demands. As the emotional level of the story picked up, she stood and went to the window. Her voice shook a little, and she stopped to take a drink. Mark didn’t say a word. He didn’t know what to think. “I stopped modeling because I kept getting hit on by photographers and stylists. Sometimes, I believed their lines, only to wake up disappointed the next day. After enough of those, I stopped believing anyone. Then, a good guy like you comes along, and I’m too defensive.” “I don’t know anything about your world, but I take your word for it. I can see how being as pretty as you could bring a lot of propositions.” “You can’t imagine. I wasn’t prepared for it. And now, I’ve blown it with you, probably the best guy I’ve gone out with in years.” Taking a deep breath, she covered her eyes with her hand. Mark pushed to his feet and ed her. I believe her. Her voice cracked, and her lip trembled. “It’s hard for me to trust anyone. To open up. It’s safer to be alone. But, it’s so lonely, and I don’t know what to do.” Mark put his beer down on the windowsill and took her in his arms. She cried into his chest, and he stroked her hair. They stood together in silence as Penny’s sobs finally wound down to sniffles. She clung to him, and his heart opened. He tightened his grip slightly and kissed her head. Who’d believe such beauty could have so much ugliness in her life? He wanted to fix it. He wanted to make her smile, to make her trust again.

She broke from him and fished a tissue from her purse. “All I ever wanted to do was design clothes, children’s clothes. I’ve been saving up for school, in New York. To become a designer.” “Give up acting and modeling?” “I’m not tough enough. Or good enough. I love fashion. I’d be happier, I think, making pretty clothes.” Words eluded Mark. He was taken by surprise by her outpouring and her humility. She was more complex than he had expected, and she touched him inside. Gazing into her eyes, he saw the truth, knew she wasn’t acting. He identified with her pain. They plopped down on the sofa together. He wrapped his arm around her shoulder. “Don’t feel sorry for me. I have so much more than so many in the world. I need to sort out my life. I will, eventually. I know I’m defensive, and it’s hard for a man to get through that. I understand how you feel, and I accept you don’t want to see me anymore. I did it to myself.” She’s not a heartless bitch. She’s a wounded puppy. She needs me. “Let’s try again.” “Really?” She turned to him, eyes filled with hope. “Yeah. I didn’t know all that about you. I think I understand better.” “I’m not a bitch, not inside.” Mark glanced at his watch. “I’m starved. Let’s order a couple of pizzas and watch a movie.” “A couple of pizzas?” “On season, I get hungry.” “I see. What movies do you have?” Mark ordered while Penny picked out a thriller for them to watch. He opened more beer, and they lounged on the couch. Penny told stories about her acting

experiences, mesmerizing Mark. He was surprised at how animated she became. Quiet, shy girl comes out of her shell. Her frozen exterior had thawed. Telling him her story seemed to have unlocked something in Penny. She had revealed her real self to him, and he liked what he saw. She’s got grit. Come a long way by herself. Now, she needs someone. One more female to take care of? Piece of cake.

****

Penny cracked her eyes open. There were colorful bars on the television, indicating that the movie was over. Last thing she ed was snuggling into Mark and resting her eyes. Just closed them for a minute. She had fallen asleep cuddled up against him. His warmth comforted her. His hand rested behind her, and his legs pinned her between them, as if she was part of him. Her nose was touching his neck. She inhaled his delicious masculine scent and struggled not to give him a lick. Sharing space barely big enough for his large frame, and definitely not comfortable for two, put her in danger of falling off. She moved her hips an inch, stretched and then relaxed in his embrace. It was three o’clock. Mark shifted his position, almost throwing her to the floor. He rubbed his eyes. “Too late to go home,” she said, rising from the sofa and extending her hand. Mark took it, and she led him into the bedroom. He pulled back the covers. “I’ll go back to the living room,” he said, his voice thick with sleep. “Stay here.” She plopped down with her clothes on, and he ed her, winding an arm around her middle. They were both asleep again within minutes. Used to rising early, Penny arose with the sun at six. She carefully lifted the arm Mark had slung over her and slid out from underneath. He muttered something and moved his legs, but remained asleep. She stared at his sleeping face and smiled. He looks so sweet.

After she made a pot of coffee, Penny peeled off her clothes and took a shower. She donned one of his shirts, which hung down like a dress on her, even though she was five foot nine. She rolled up the sleeves, perched on the end of the bed drinking coffee, and watched him sleep. Within five minutes, he opened his eyes. His gaze traveled over her body with appreciation. “Good morning,” he said in a hoarse voice. “Coffee wake you?” “Yeah. Smells great.” “Want some?” “Not yet.” He got up and shed his clothes, padding into the bathroom in his boxers. Penny stared at him. Wow! His back and arms were well muscled. The smattering of blond hair on his chest traveled down into a line and disappeared below his waistband. When he walked away, she spied his butt and decided it was cute. Her body stirred at the sight of him. Feelings she hadn’t allowed herself for a long time took over. Heat traveled to her core, and the urge to run her hand over his pecs was overwhelming. He was six four, two twenty, with an athlete’s body. She wanted him. A sip of coffee wetted her dry mouth. Her nipples hardened in anticipation of the touch of his long fingers. Her pulse kicked up, and a part of her was throbbing that hadn’t done so in ages. He came out of the bathroom in a few minutes with a towel wrapped around his waist. His hair was wet. He gave her a bright, clean, white smile. Oh, God. Look at you. Touch me, gorgeous. “That looks better on you than me,” he said, indicating his blue long-sleeved shirt. She laughed. He walked to the closet and warned her, “If you don’t leave, or at least turn around, you’re going to get a view you didn’t bargain for.” “Don’t get dressed. Come over here,” she said, patting the bed next to her. He raised his eyebrows.

“Come on. I won’t bite...unless you ask me to.” He shrugged. “If you say so.” He sat down, fussing with the towel to keep it closed. She placed her coffee on the nightstand and crawled over to him, settling on her knees. She flattened her palms on his chest, tilted her chin up, and stared into his eyes. When he lowered his mouth to hers, she pressed her fingertips into his muscles. She opened for him and gave a little moan when their tongues touched. He put his hands on her waist then lifted his head. “You wearing anything under there?” She shook her head. “Wow. Okay. Is this the green light?” “What do you think?” His freshly scrubbed scent teased her nose. “I’m afraid to be colorblind here. I don’t usually ask. But with you...well, I don’t want to make a mistake.” He combed his fingers through her hair. She traced his jaw with her finger. “Love me, Mark.” “Are you sure?” He raised her chin to look directly into her eyes. “Never been more sure.” He didn’t need more encouragement. His mouth descended on hers in a hungry kiss, devouring her, while his hands squeezed her butt then dipped under the shirt to make with her skin. At the cool touch of him on her, she shivered. His fingers were gentle, curious, and exciting. He groaned when she pulled the towel off and ran her hands down his sides and over his thighs. “Penny, baby,” he moaned, sliding his hands down the backs of her thighs then inside and up. She gave a little gasp as he made with her wet warmth. He stroked her, then eased a fingertip inside. With his other hand, he unbuttoned the shirt, pushing it off her shoulder. His gaze settled on her bare breast. “Beautiful,” he muttered, moving his hand up

to close over the rounded flesh. He kissed her then lowered his lips to her chest. He nipped her peak then caressed it with his tongue. Penny hissed as he stoked her fire. Desire paralyzed her. She couldn’t move, only close her eyes and focus on the heat his hands and lips were creating. Mark eased her back on the pillows. He kissed his way down her abdomen and below, his head stopping between her legs. “Oh, God, Mark, don’t stop. Please.” He chuckled in response. She lost her hands in his hair. He pushed up and sucked on her belly then flattened his tongue and guided it up to her breast. Penny sat up and moved her hands down, closing her fingers around his rocksolid erection. He moaned and stopped moving as she glided her hand up and down. After a few seconds, Mark repositioned her flat on her back. He removed her hand and reached into the nightstand for a condom. His gaze never left her body. “You’re gorgeous.” Penny put her hands on either side of his stubbly cheeks and pulled him down for a kiss. She ravaged his mouth. “I want you,” she muttered, completely lost in the feel of him, the scent of him, the taste of him. “Take me, Mark, oh God!” “Hang on a sec.” He finished covering himself and pushed her knees up. “Do it. Now. Please!” He grinned at her and rubbed himself on her slippery flesh to spread her lubrication. Then, he entered her, slowly. “Hurry, hurry, you’re killing me,” she closed her eyes again and arched her back. He snorted then plunged into her full force, burying himself deep inside. She gave a loud gasp, and he stopped. “You okay?” he asked, raising his eyes to hers. “God, yes. Don’t stop!” He thrust into her again then pulled out and continued the rhythm. Heat coiled inside her like a spring being wound tighter and tighter. The pressure grew, until she thought she couldn’t bear it another minute. Balanced on his knees, Mark

grabbed her hips, his fingertips pressing into her skin, and pumped into her, increasing his speed as her moans got louder. Sweat dripped off his forehead. He lifted her leg and hitched her ankle on his shoulder to bury himself deeper, making her hips buck. She gripped his arms, digging her fingers into his muscles as he brought her to a climax. She cried out when the pressure burst and pleasure flowed to every part of her body. He continued to move inside her. Sensing Mark watching her, Penny opened her eyes. With his blond hair falling over his forehead, his eyes bright with lust, and a slight growth of beard, he looked more handsome than ever. Then, he shut his eyes, pounded her a few times, and collapsed with a loud groan. Deep breathing was the only sound to crack the silence in the room. Penny ran her hand along his cheek. His eyes connected with hers before he brushed his lips across hers. “You’re amazing,” he whispered, peering at her through damp lashes. “Not the cold, sexless bitch you were expecting?” She chuckled, combing her fingers through his hair. “The opposite.” “You’re pretty amazing yourself.” Mark pushed up on his elbows. He toyed with the ends of her long hair as his gaze examined her face. “What are you thinking?” he asked. Do I tell the truth or hide from him? Don’t lose him again. “Truth? Feeling lucky I didn’t lose you.” “Me, too.” He traced the outline of her lips with his finger. She opened her mouth and sucked the digit in. Mark wiggled his eyebrows, making her laugh. “What about you?” “I’m thinking I could go for a giant breakfast about now. How about it? There’s a diner makes great home fries down the block.” They dressed and headed out to eat. Mark took Penny’s hand as they walked

along in the warmth, before the desert sun got too hot. She smiled as she buried her small hand in his large one. All of a sudden, he stopped, turned, and kissed her, then tucked her under his arm and continued down the street. “What was that for?” she asked. “For being so hot.” Penny laughed. She shook her head to rid it of negative thoughts. Other men have started out like this. Great the first time you sleep with them, then on to the next conquest. Be careful. She wanted to curb her feelings, but it wasn’t possible. Happiness filled her heart, and she refused to deny herself. For however long it lasts, enjoy him. Enjoy being together. An easy smile spread across her face. Yes, she would enjoy him and be happy now, even if it all disappeared in a day or two. Maybe this would be different. Maybe he would be different. Maybe they were meant to be. After breakfast, they returned to Mark’s apartment and made love again. They took their time, exploring each other’s bodies, ramping up their pleasure. A trip to Penny’s gym burned off any extra energy. Then, they caught a movie. Back at Mark’s place for the night, Penny scrounged up a spaghetti dinner from things in Mark’s kitchen. Mark ran lines with Penny for her next scene in Las Vegas Beat. “Practice tomorrow. Early to bed,” Mark said. “I’m not shooting until the afternoon.” She picked up her purse. Mark put his hand on her arm. “Stay?” “Again?” She cocked an eyebrow at him. “I got the best night’s sleep, sleeping with you.” “Did you have only sleeping on your mind?” “That depends on you.” He stroked her hair.

“I’m game.” She twined her arms around him and pulled him close. He bent down and kissed her. “I don’t want to push you,” he said, making another assault on her mouth. “You’re not. I want to stay.” “My prayers have been answered.” He took her hand, led her into the bedroom, and closed the door.

Chapter Four

Mark bounded out of bed full of energy. After more lovemaking, instead of feeling sated, his appetite for Penny had increased. Her frankly expressed desire for him turned him on. He’d been looking for a woman who wanted him the way he wanted her. Now, he’d found her. Would he ever be able to get enough of Penny? He’d sure enjoy trying. She relaxed, letting down her guard with their increased intimacy, revealing her softer side. Gone was the tough girl he’d seen at the Italian restaurant. They shared a big breakfast at the diner again before parting ways, getting back to their own lives. Mark was definitely in lust, also in like, and maybe falling in love. He thought about her all the way to the stadium. The memory of her scent tickled his nose. The smooth softness of her skin lingered on his fingertips. He had invited her to watch practice whenever she didn’t have to be on the set. Was that too forward? Was he behaving like a man in love, throwing himself at her feet? He was, and he didn’t care. Even Darvin’s teasing and baiting didn’t bother him. He trotted onto the field and ed in the warm-ups with enthusiasm. Mark couldn’t stop smiling. He ran laps, did push-ups and crunches. No matter how tough the regimen was, he didn’t flinch. A new strength flowed through his veins. He wasn’t alone. With Megan so far away, it had been hard for Mark. They hadn’t been separated before. She’d always been his buffer, the one to buck him up when he needed a cheerleader. Penny brought new light into his life, and he was flying high. “Hey, Dopey,” Harley called. “What?” Mark replied. “One of the seven dwarves? He had a smile like you do. Get lucky with that Penny chick?” “She’s terrific.”

“I’ll bet,” he snickered. Mark fisted Harley’s shirt and pulled him nose-to-nose. “Watch the way you talk about her.” “Oh, it’s like that now, is it?” “Maybe it is,” Mark said, releasing his friend. “I see. Love bug bit ya?” “Mind your own business, Harley,” Mark wandered away to get a ball and warm up his arm. Coach gathered all the players together. “Mr. Oswald is going to be here during practice for the next few weeks.” “Who’s Mr. Oswald?” one of the rookies piped up. “He’s the owner of your team, asshole.” A ripple of laughter went through the crowd. “What for, Coach?” “He’s makin’ cuts to the squad at the end of next month. So be on your toes. And for Chrissakes, be on time! Let’s go.” He gestured, and the men broke into teams to run plays. “You’ve got a visitor,” Harley said, pointing to the stands. Mark looked over to see Penny sitting in the third row. He waved, and she waved back. Mark’s arm muscles were loose, and he threw after that hit their marks. Coach actually smiled for a second before his natural scowl returned. Penny is bringing me luck. His good mood continued until he hit the showers, where Darvin cornered him. “I’d better make the cut, Davis, or you’ll be playing from a wheelchair.” “Is that a threat?” “Sure as hell ain’t a birthday card.”

“Hey, if it’s you or me, may the best man win.” “And that’s me. Bad enough you stole that chick from me. Uptight little bitch.” Mark pushed Sweetwater up against the wall. “Watch the way you talk about her.” “Yeah?” An evil grin spread across Darvin’s face. “Got the hots for the little slut?” “None of your business. This is about football, Sweetwater. Leave it there.” “This is about you and me, Davis. You start it, and I’ll finish it.” “Whatever.” Mark grabbed a towel and headed for the locker room. “I need this job, and I’ll do whatever I have to to keep it,” Darvin called after his teammate. “Good luck with that,” Mark said as he walked out. When he was dressed and headed for the parking lot, Penny ambled over. “No shooting today?” “Nah, canceled. Thought I’d get to see you in action, and I did. You’re awesome, Mark.” “Just had a lucky day.” I’m pretty good. His phone dinged. It was a text from his sister.

Vacay tomorrow. Am coming on red eye. Need some warm weather and meet your new girl. Text flight details later.

“My sister’s coming.” “Will I get to meet her?”

“You’re one of the reasons she’s coming.” Penny’s eyes widened. “Wow! Already? I mean, we just started going out.” “She likes to get her two cents in early.” No way am I telling you how serious I am . He draped his arm across her shoulders and headed for his car. “Let’s eat. I’m starved.”

****

The flight was on time. A smile swept across Mark’s face as he waited for Megan to step off the plane. She bounced down the gangway with her usual energy, even though she’d flown all night and her time was all screwed up. He picked her up in a bear hug, twirling her around. Megan laughed, flinging her head back. “Down, Lug!” she commanded. Mark grabbed her suitcase off the carousel and toted it easily to his car. He asked about their mother, and Meg brought him upto-date. Although Mark was their mother’s favorite, as he “had the looks and charm,” while Meg “had the brains,” she was the one who called their mom regularly. Anna Davis no longer bothered to try to hide her preference, bragging about her son’s accomplishments to her friends and Meg. Mark tried to change the subject when she gushed over him. Anna claimed it was the time difference that kept him from calling her weekly. The truth was that Anna relied heavily on Megan for advice and a sympathetic ear, and Mark for a check every month. The twins never discussed their division of responsibility. Meg wasted no time firing pointed questions at her brother as he drove. “What’s the deal with this new chickie?” “My girlfriend?” ‘Now she’s your girlfriend? How long have you been seeing her?”

“A couple of weeks. Yeah. She’s my girl. She’s amazing, Squirt. You’re gonna like her.” “We’ll see. She’s gorgeous, I’ll give you that. I watched her show.” “Her looks, on a scale of ten, are, like, twelve.” “They can’t be twelve on a scale of ten, Lug.” “Always the mathematician. I was making a point.” “Oh. Got it. Yep. So, she’s pretty, what else?” Megan turned to face her brother. “She’s nice.” ‘Nice? Damning with faint praise.” “Real nice. Nice to me. And she can cook.” Mark kept his gaze on the road. “She cooks? Now, we’re getting someplace.” Meg rubbed her hands together. “She’s a good cook, a great cook, in fact. She made lasagna for you.” “For me? How did she know the way to approval of your girl is through my stomach?” “I told her you could eat me under the table.” He chuckled. “That’s not true...any longer. I’ve lost weight.” “You look good, Squirt. I’ve got a blind date for you, too.” “Ugh.” “Harley Brennan.” “Who?” She raised her eyebrows. “Harley. My wide receiver.” “If he thinks he’s going to be a receiver with me...” She frowned.

“Harley’s cool. I told him to keep his hands off you.” “And we’re going out?” “Double date.” “You’re crazy. What if I want to sleep with him?” She shot her brother an evil grin. “Please, TMI.” She laughed. “What’s sauce for the goose...” “I never understood that. The goose is a female, and the gander is a male.” “Forget it. If you’re getting laid, maybe I want to, too. It’s been a long time.” “No details, please. Haven’t you met anyone in grad school?” “There’s this one guy, but he’s kind of, well, nerdy. Not much to look at.” “You’re going out with him?” Mark glanced over at her. “Yeah. Nothing else to do on a Saturday night. Can’t study all the time.” “If Harley touches you, I’ll crush his left nut.” “That should surely make him want to go out with me.” She sighed. “You’re my sister.” His brows knitted. “I’m not a nun. I make those decisions for myself. Is he a hunk?” “I don’t know. Ask a girl.” “I’ll ask Penny. When am I meeting her?” “She’s coming over for breakfast tomorrow. Is that okay?” “Perfect. Let’s have a steak tonight, before I crash. Jet lag,” she yawned.

Mark pulled into the parking lot of his favorite restaurant. They both ordered steak. “I’ve missed you,” Meg said, slicing off a thin piece of meat. “Same.” Mark shoveled some baked potato into his mouth. “Don’t overdo it.” “I don’t like mushy stuff. Glad you’re here. Isn’t that enough?” A sense of calm flowed through Mark’s veins, as it always did when Meg was around. Her presence lightened the mood. “So, brainiac, crushed your competition yet?” He stuck his fork in a chunk of lettuce. “No, have you crushed yours?” “Oohh, little sister bites. Ouch!” He laughed. “Little sister?” She cocked an eyebrow at him. “Yeah, by one point five minutes.” “Typical older brother—critical, bossy, and demanding.” Her eyes twinkled. “And you’ve always been a little sister—whiney, clingy, and manipulative!” He grinned. She slapped her hand on the table. “I’m not manipulative! Might be better off if I was.” Megan filled him in on life at Harvard then he talked about his game and the team. The warmth of love for his sister filled his heart. They finished up and retired early. In the morning, first the buzzer, then five minutes later a loud knock on her door, woke Megan up. She pulled the pillow over her head, but Mark burst into her room and wrestled it away from her. He leaped on the bed, tickling Meg, who squirmed and squealed, trying to kick him. When she landed one to his thigh, he

pretended to be mortally wounded, howling loudly. Meg laughed, slapping him on the shoulder. “Fat faker!” she screamed at him. “DL! DL!” he howled, holding his thigh while trying to contain his laughter. “What’s DL?” Penny asked from the doorway. “Disabled List,” Meg called, fending off her brother. Finally, a disheveled Meg pushed Mark off and got out of bed. “Hi. I’m Meg. You must be Penny. God, you’re twice as gorgeous in person as you are on TV.” Penny blushed and grinned. “Nice to meet you.” She stuck out her hand, but Meg drew her into an embrace instead. “Any sweetheart of my brother’s is a special friend of mine.” “I didn’t expect...” Penny began, but Meg cut her off. “You don’t expect twins to let other people in. But we do. Special people. And that’s you. Now, both of you go and let me get dressed. I’m starving and, Lug, I’m going to eat the biggest breakfast I can. Bigger than you.” “Good luck with that, Squirt. It’s the season. No one eats more than I do.” The lovers left the spare room and closed the door. Mark grinned. “So what do you think?” “I think I’ve just been hit by tornado Meg. She’s great!” “Yeah. She is.” He smiled shyly and cast his gaze to the floor. “Ever since dad took a powder, we’ve taken care of each other. I’m glad she likes you.” “Me, too,” Penny said, falling into Mark’s arms. They kissed. “None of that in front of me until I get my hands on this Harley character, my

blind date,” Megan said, exiting her room, wearing a T-shirt and jeans. “When is this monumental occasion? And does my date have a brain to go with his welltoned body, or is he just a muscle head?” Meg plopped down on the sofa and brushed her long, mahogany locks. The twins were fraternal, as different looking as night and day. Mark was fairskinned, blond, and blue-eyed while Megan had a more olive complexion with glossy dark hair and brooding brown eyes. Penny stared at her boyfriend’s sister. “We still have time.” “Time for what?” Meg asked. “To give you a make-over. You’re a beautiful girl hiding in badly fitting clothes and under a horrible haircut. But I can fix that.” “Is this Harley guy such a big deal?” “He’s a great looking guy, used to dating pretty women. You qualify, just need a little fix here and there.” “Well, that’s blunt.” Meg pushed to her feet. “I’m sorry, but we don’t have much time. Mark, give me your credit card. Meg, we’re going shopping.” “I’m game, but breakfast first.” Meg tucked her arm in Penny’s. The two women turned to look at Mark, who groaned. “This is going to be a very expensive trip, I think.” He handed his card to Penny then stuffed his wallet in his back pocket and closed the door behind them. By five o’clock, the women had returned to Mark’s apartment. He was back from practice and opening a beer when they unlocked the door. They were laughing and giggling like two schoolgirls. Meg’s long, lustrous locks had been shorn by about two inches and styled to perfection. They framed her lovely face with bangs, shorter on the sides tapering to longer in the back. A slight curl had been added, and the bouncy do flattered her face perfectly. “Wait until you see what we bought, Mark. It’s fabulous. By the way, where are

we going tonight?” Meg asked. “Bowling.” “Bowling? You’re kidding, right? Bowling? I’m supposed to have some romantic date with this Harley guy, and we’re going bowling?” Meg fell onto the sofa in a fit of laughter. “I can keep my eye on him if we’re bowling. Besides, I promised Penny a bowling date, and we never got there.” “That’s true. But bowling for Harley and Meg?” “Bowling!” He stomped his foot. Meg raised her hands. “Okay, okay, bowling. I’ll be the sexiest girl on the alley.” “He’s coming in an hour. Better get ready. We’re going in one car.” “What?” Meg’s eyes widened. “Why?” “So I can keep my eye on you. I don’t trust Harley as far as I can throw him. He’s a mover.” “I’m a grown woman, Mark. And here’s a news flash for you, I’m not a virgin.” “Don’t rub it in.” “You can thank your nose tackle or whatever you call it, Brett Innis, for that.” Mark clapped his hands over his ears. Megan tried to pry them off. The two tussled until the laughter started, and then they let go. “Okay, okay, Meg. You can go in Harley’s car.” “Thank you. Really.” Mark studied her hair. “Nice do, Squirt.” “We’ve got no time. Come on, Meg,” Penny dragged Mark’s sister into the bedroom, while he parked himself in front of the television with his beer.

At six o’clock sharp, the buzzer rang. Mark let Harley in the apartment. He was dressed in a navy sports jacket and khakis. He even wore a blue tie on his crisp, white shirt. His brown hair was neatly combed, and his handsome face wore a smile of anticipation. “You clean up nice. And you even smell good—not easy for you,” Mark said, stepping aside so Harley could enter. “Where’s Megan?” he asked after nodding a greeting to Penny. The bedroom door opened, and Mark almost dropped his teeth when his sister emerged. She was wearing a dark pink blouse with a plunging neckline. Short sleeves and a bodice that hugged her slim shape led down to a black, cotton, full skirt. She wore a black onyx choker and matching earrings. A push-up bra provided a view of her abundant cleavage. Meg pulled on the blouse, trying to raise the neckline, but to no avail. Harley stared at her as if she was a giant hot fudge sundae, and he was starving. He licked his lips. “This is your sister? Shit,” he muttered. “Meg, Harley, Harley, Meg.” “She’s gorgeous,” Harley said, as if she weren’t standing right there. Megan blushed almost as pink as her shirt. Mark glanced at Penny. “She’s almost naked on top.” “That’s what they’re wearing now, Mark. Don’t go archaic. Let’s go.” Mark took Penny’s hand while Harley offered his arm to Meg. They followed Mark’s car to the bowling alley. The foursome ate burgers in the café there then claimed an alley in the center. From time to time, people drifted over to ask Penny for her autograph. She smiled sweetly and signed. Mark scowled every time someone interrupted their game. “Your turn’ll come. Someday people’ll be all over you for your autograph, Mark.”

“In your dreams,” he said. She patted his shoulder, and he turned a critical eye to his sister. “When she bends over to roll the ball, the pins aren’t going to be the only things falling down,” Mark whispered to Penny. “Shh. You’ll make her self-conscious. She’s nicely...built. Harley doesn’t seem to mind.” Mark sensed heat in his cheeks. “If he lays one hand on her, I’ll take him out.” “Mark, back off. Meg’s an adult. You’re the one who fixed her up.” “That’s because Harley was begging me. Now, look at him. He’s all over her.” Mark’s blood pressure rose. “Calm down. He’s your friend, right?” “I don’t care. I don’t trust him. He’s practically drooling.” “Megan looks like a woman who can take care of herself,” Penny said, tugging on his arm. “You’ll spoil her evening. She’s having a good time.” Mark saw his sister laughing and punching Harley playfully. Penny’s right, they look happy. “Okay, okay. I’ll back off. But if he puts one finger on her in the wrong place...” He fisted his hand. “Pow!” “What’s eating you?” Harley asked when Meg excused herself to go to the ladies room and dragged Penny with her. “Don’t get any ideas about seducing my sister,” Mark growled. “Hell, she’s seducing me. She’s great! Why didn’t you tell me about her before?” “Because I know what a mover you are.” “She’s of age, Mark. Back off.” Harley’s smile slipped off his face. The bowling got competitive as Mark and Harley faced off. The women chatted and tried to ignore the rivalry between the men. Mark and Penny beat Harley and

Megan. Miffed, Harley took his date’s arm and headed for his car. They drove off, leaving Mark hollering after them. “I don’t know where she’s going. And with him!” “Calm down, Mark. Meg can handle herself. Harley wouldn’t hurt her. I don’t think you have to worry,” Penny said. “Let’s go back to your place. Maybe they’re headed there.” Mark sat behind the wheel and took a deep breath. His gaze scanned the scenery. “You don’t know what it’s like. Being responsible. I’ve been taking care of Meg and my mom since I was fifteen. It gets heavy sometimes. Meg is all I have. If something happened to her, I don’t know what I’d do.” His voice was weary. “Nothing’s going to happen to her. And I do know exactly how you feel. I took over keeping house for my dad when my mother died.” “On top of modeling and high school?” He turned to face her. She nodded. “I guess we have more in common that I thought.” He kissed her,then started the motor and put the car in gear. About an hour after they arrived back at Mark’s place, Megan called to say she wasn’t coming home. Mark screamed at her, and she hollered back and hung up. He poured a shot of scotch and downed it. Penny came up behind him and massaged his shoulders. “Megan wasn’t a very popular girl in college. She didn’t date much. Always had her nose in a book.” Mark ran his hand through his hair. “Unlike you, right?” “Yeah. So, she doesn’t know how to handle casual sex. I don’t want her to get hurt. Harley’s not looking for anything more than a one-night stand. Meg’s not that kind of girl.” “I understand. I know you love her, but you can’t keep her under glass. Someday, she’ll get hurt, but she’ll get over it. Didn’t you ever get your heart broken?” “Not really. I was the captain of the football team in high school and college. I

could date anyone I wanted.” “You mean screw anyone you wanted.” “Almost. Yeah.” He leaned forward. “What if you’re wrong about Harley?” She moved closer, digging her fingers hard into his tight muscles. “You think he’s gonna fall for her?” “You think she’s pretty special.” “She is. Smartest person I know. Nicest too, except for you.” “Maybe Harley’ll feel the same.” “Maybe. He’d better not hurt her.” She bent her head to kiss his neck. “Hey, handsome, how ’bout me? Am I chopped liver?” “Hell, no. You’re the finest, tenderest filet mignon ever,” he said, returning the kiss. Standing, he grabbed Penny, lifting her up into his arms. “Time for bed.” He carried her into the bedroom and closed the door.

Chapter Five

Megan’s visit seemed to fly by. Harley spent more time with them than Mark would have liked, but he did seem genuinely attached to Meg. He even showed up at the airport to kiss her goodbye, despite Mark’s objection. In just six weeks, Penny and Mark had become inseparable. They settled into a routine. When she wasn’t shooting late, they’d be together. Penny cooked, or Mark took her out. Sometimes, on nights with favorite television programs, they’d order in. Most evenings they retired early to make love. The sheets on his bed rarely cooled. Mark had never been happier. His calm frame of mind showed on the field, too. Since Penny had come into his life, his confidence solidified. He knew who he was, and he drove himself harder and harder toward perfection, believing in his gut he could make first string. The harder he worked, the more rattled his competitor became. Convinced he was starter material, Mark let Darvin Sweetwater’s nasty comments roll off his back. Mark got up happy every morning, whistled a cheerful tune on the field, and went home to a gorgeous woman almost every night, overjoyed to be with her. He was comfortable with Penny—they played board games, did jigsaw puzzles, and shopped at the grocery store together. He planned to make their relationship permanent as soon as he got a break. He needed to be making a first string salary before he made a commitment. Everything was going so right until, all of a sudden, life went all wrong. The day everything came crashing down on him was October 8th, a date he’d never forget. Mark walked toward the locker room as usual on a Tuesday morning. A couple of guys were coming out, and when he got closer, he noticed them glance at him furtively then quickly look away. He wondered what was going on. Can’t have anything to do with me. My life is perfect. The closer he got to his destination, the stronger his sense of dread, uneasiness running down his spine. A couple of guys paled when they saw him and turned away. He whipped his T-shirt over his head and headed for his locker until he noticed a bunch of his teammates crowded around something on the far wall.

He heard someone mention his name. When they saw him, they scattered like roaches in bright daylight, running for their lives. He approached the wall and stopped about two feet away, stunned. There, taped up for all to see, were photos of Penny, nude. Half a dozen pictures of her naked breasts and her bare rear end were on display. He bent over to peer more carefully. It can’t be her. She’d never do that. Sure looks like her. Damn, it’s Penny. Humiliation morphed into rage with the speed of a bolt of lightning. It filled Mark’s gut. He roared like a lion, ripping the photos down in two swipes. “Who put these up? Who’s responsible?” he yelled, crushing the pictures in his hand. His question brought silence and embarrassed faces, gazes that shifted away from his. “Who?” he repeated, louder. Only one asshole would do this. Sweetwater. Darvin strutted out of the shower room, wrapping a towel around his waist. “You called, Davis?” Mark didn’t stop to think. He didn’t stop to talk. He simply plowed into the big quarterback, slamming him against the wall. His fists pounded Darvin, who pushed back. Mark was beyond reason. He didn’t see. He didn’t hear. Fury propelled him. He was ready to kill. Sweetwater defended. Fists flew. Noses were bloodied. All the men gathered around. Harley and a few others tried to break it up. One ran for the coach. It took three trainers to break the two battling men apart. Sweat mixed with blood poured off them. The heat of their anger made the room unbearably hot. Blood gushed from Sweetwater’s nose and Mark’s mouth. Gashes on their chests and backs bled, and bruises were forming. “What the hell is the matter with you two? Are you crazy? Did you break your throwing hand? If you did, your career is over and you’re outta here!” The only response was the deep breathing of the two fighters. Both flexed their fingers. “What the hell? Is somebody gonna tell me what this was all about?” One man

pointed to the ripped up pictures scattered on the ground, some with fresh blood on them. The coach bent to pick them up. Mark was wiping his mouth with his hand. Coach held up a few picture scraps, trying to piece them together. Mark ripped them out of the coach’s grasp. “Ah. So, she belongs to you, eh? What does this have to do with Sweetwater?” “He put them up, Coach,” Harley volunteered. “Why you stupid son-of-a-bitch! What the fuck do you think you’re doing? Starting a fight is grounds for suspension.” The coach stared at Darvin then at Mark. “There will be fines, fines all around, boys. Five grand. And if I ever, and I mean ever, see a fight like this again, both parties will be suspended, and then dropped from the team. Do you hear me?” Mark and Darvin nodded. Both men stared at the floor. “Do you assholes realize you could have ended your careers over this? Stupid, fucking, sons of bitches.” The coach shook his head. “Get yourselves cleaned up. And clean up this mess, too. You made it. You clean it up.” The coach pointed to the blood splattered on the floor and walls. He kept mumbling curses as he walked away. Mark opened and closed his throwing hand several times. It was swollen, a little bruised, but not broken. He breathed a sigh of relief. Harley ed him. “What the hell, Mark? She’s not worth breaking your hand for.” “I didn’t break my hand. And don’t tell me who’s worth it, asshole. Just mind your own goddam business.” The coach threw a roll of paper towels at each fighter. Darvin shot daggers from his eyes at Mark, who scowled back. As they mopped up in silence, the coach addressed them. “Sweetwater, Davis, don’t bother to come to practice today. You’re worthless. And yes, you’re fined for missing practice. Now, get the hell out of here before I beat the crap out of you myself.” When they finished, each man dressed in silence and left the room. Darvin shot one last evil look at Mark before he departed.

Mark was still upset, but his rage had changed direction and was now aimed at Penny. How could she humiliate me like this? In front of the whole team? Such a goody two-shoes, eh? Didn’t like all the guys making es, huh? And then you pose nude? Really? And you want me to believe you? Everything you said about not sleeping around is a lie. How many men did she sleep with? Who knows? And how many have those pictures? Mark could barely steady his hands enough to drive home. Her betrayal ran deep, and his heart was bruised as if she had used it for a punching bag. He arrived home and began to pace. His nerves were raw, and anger boiled through him like molten lava in a volcano about to erupt. He was waiting, waiting for her to show up. He looked at the bottle of scotch. Just one drink to calm down. He walked toward it and stopped. No, it’ll make me worse, crazy. He didn’t want alcohol to cloud his mind. He wanted to be very clear when he blasted Penny and threw her out. His heart ached. Perfect happiness had been within his grasp then that lowlife Sweetwater had snatched it away. I trusted you, Penny, believed in you. I loved you. I wish it weren’t true. How could you lie about this? Why didn’t you tell me? He wanted to be Superman and turn time back to before he walked into the locker room. Maybe he could have twisted his ankle and not gone to practice. Maybe Harley could have taken the pictures down before he got there. Come to think of it, why didn’t Harley take them down? Now, Harley was on his shit list, right below Penny. Mark threw on running clothes and hit the high school track around the corner. He ran and ran, until he thought his lungs would burst. Sinking down onto a soft, grassy field, tears couldn’t be stopped. He bent his head so no one could see. He loved Penny, loved her like he had never loved before. But she had humiliated him. He had to dump her. How could she ever come to a game? Every guy on the field would be leering at her, staring at her chest...and her butt. And the talk, snide comments he’d get. The innuendos and jokes not even thinly veiled. The looks, a combination of snark and pity. He didn’t think he could stand it. And they’d all ask him, “Dumped her?” He knew he had to say “yes.” Or they’d think he was in love with a whore. Is

that what she was? Any woman who poses for nude photos is cheap, easy. Plain and simple. Every man knew that. As much as a guy might drool over a chick’s naked pictures, he’d never date her, never fall in love with her, never marry her. Don’t I have any pride? Now, he couldn’t marry Penny because she was a slut. The pain was so intense he almost thought he was having a heart attack. A young kid on a skateboard stopped. “You okay, mister?” Mark nodded at him, wiping his face with the heel of his hand. “Yeah, kid. I’m okay. Thanks.” He pushed to his feet. His leg muscles throbbed then wobbled, making him unsure if he could walk or even stand. He stretched them out, and in a few seconds, it ed. He walked home slowly, not anxious to have a scene with Penny. I don’t want to do this, but I have to. With his head hung low, he entered the elevator and pushed the button for his floor. The door was unlocked, making his pulse kick up. Did someone break in? Oh, God, not today! He opened it cautiously. “Hi, handsome. How was your day?” Penny’s cheerful voice came from the kitchen. Shit, forgot. I gave her a key. He entered and closed the door quietly. “Mark? Is that you?” She came out of the kitchen, hair bouncing, breasts jiggling, eyes lit up, smiling. Not for long. “Hi, baby. Oh my God. What happened to you?” She reached up to kiss him, her fingers to touch him, but he pulled away as if she was poison. Her brows knitted. “I ran into a fist.” He tried to keep his voice even. “What?” She tried again to touch his swollen face, but he sidestepped her, clamping his hand around her wrist. Silently, he walked over to his jeans on the sofa and fished around in the pockets. Then, he pulled out the bloody remnants of her pictures. “This.” He threw them at her feet. Most fell right side to the floor, except three. She bent to pick them up. By the sound of her sharp intake of breath, he knew she recognized them. There goes all hope of a mistake. Heaviness entered his heart.

“Mark, I can explain.” She bit her lip. “These pictures were taped to the wall of the locker room when I got there.” Her hand flew to her mouth to cover a gasp. Her eyes grew wide. “Slut,” he spat at her. “Wait. I can explain.” “Can you explain away that my whole team saw your tits? And your ass.” “Please, Mark. Give me a chance.” She touched his arm, but he pushed her hand off. “Did you give me a chance? Why didn’t you tell me about this? Little Miss Virgin, huh? Don’t think so. All men are after your ass? Maybe these pictures are why.” “It’s not what you think.” “Oh? Are you going to tell me that isn’t you?” She raised a hand. “It is, but...” “Then, it is what I think. You posed for nude pictures. You’re a slut. Get out.” He pulled a beer from the fridge. “No, wait. Please, at least hear me out.” “In front of the whole team. All them gawking at you, like you were a stripper.” He put his head in his hands. “Mark, it was unusual circumstances.” “Yeah? And for me, too. To see the woman I love plastered up on a wall, naked, for the whole Goddamn team to leer at.” “Oh, Christ, Mark, I’m sorry, so sorry. It must have been terrible.” Her brows knitted.

“Beyond terrible.” Tears stung the back of his eyes. She reached up to touch his split lip, and he flinched. “Get away.” “Is that why you look beat up?” “I’m done, Penny. I’m not going to marry a slut. Get out. Leave. I can’t look at you now.” “But you’re hurt.” She reached for him then lowered her arm. “Hurt? Hurt? You think this is bad?” He pointed to his face. “It’s nothing compared to in here.” He touched his chest. “You’ve betrayed me, humiliated me. I’m done. We’re finished. You’d better get out before I lose my temper.” “Don’t you even want to hear my side?” Tears rushed down her face. “It doesn’t matter why. You didn’t tell me, and there it was on the wall.” At the sight of her tears, a sharp pain pierced his heart. So, she’s crying. She made you cry. Payback. “I thought we had a relationship. I thought we could talk. I thought you understood.” She pulled a tissue out of her purse and wiped her eyes. “You thought wrong. Now go.” The look on her face told him he had hit home and hurt her back. The sense of satisfaction he got lasted only a few seconds before it turned to regret. He was beyond angry and couldn’t think straight. He needed her gone. He needed to talk to Megan. Penny reached out to touch him, but stopped as he moved away. Her face got red, and she began to sob as she ran for the door. With her hand on the knob, she tossed the key he’d given her into the ceramic bowl and turned to him. “Call me when you’re rational. Give me a chance to explain before you blow us apart. Then, if you still want to dump me, I’ll leave quietly.” She closed the door behind her. “You’ll leave when I say so!” he hollered after her. Mark sat down with his head in his hands. Tears returned. He expected her to be angry, snide, defensive, and attack him. But she didn’t. She crumbled like week-old bread at the loss of his love, and it hurt him to watch her. That was the Penny he knew, not the

provocative girl in the photos. He went to the kitchen and grabbed the bottle of scotch. He knew he wasn’t ready for Meg’s rational take. He downed a couple of shots and threw himself on his bed. Within minutes, he was fast asleep, dreaming of Penny.

****

Mark slept all the way to the next morning. Reaching out in his sleep for Penny and finding her not there woke him up early. His body was sore from the fight and his heart from the loss of his girlfriend. Coffee burned his sensitive lip, but he drank it down anyway. He needed something to get him started. His body was heavy from sadness. A shower pounding on his bruises hurt, but the pain woke him up. Tension built as he left his car and headed for the locker room. Every muscle was drawn tight as he walked through the door. When his teammates noticed him, all talking stopped. Mark felt their stares. They dressed for practice in silence. Sweetwater brushed by him, not looking like he was in any better shape than Mark. I can’t afford to lose five grand. Megan is going to kill me. The fight. Penny. Better not call her for a few days. He walked out onto the field, his muscles stiff. No one made mention of the fight or the photos. The laps and warm-ups relaxed and stretched his tense and battered body. The coach looked madder than ever as they ran through their plays. Mark’s game was off. He struggled to get his concentration back. After practice, Harley came up to him in the locker room. “How you doin’, buddy?” “Don’t ‘buddy’ me. Why didn’t you take those stupid pictures down?” “Hey, I got here about thirty seconds before you did.” “Really?”

“I may be a lot of things, Mark, but not a liar. I would’ve taken ’em down if I’d seen them before you.” “Okay.” Harley’s explanation soothed Mark. Then, his conscience started to bother him. What if Penny had an explanation like Harley did? I didn’t even let her talk. “Let’s get wasted tonight.” “Nah. Don’t feel like it.” “We’ll pick up a couple of chicks, get laid...come on. Be good for you.” Harley clapped him on the shoulder. He flinched as the friendly gesture landed on his bruised flesh. “Sorry,” Harley mumbled. The thought of sleeping with anyone but Penny turned him off. She’s the top. Nothing less will do. He stroked his chin. “How about we eat in and watch a movie?” Harley made a face. “I want some action.” Mark cocked an eyebrow at his friend. “Does my sister know you’re out tomcatting?” “She wouldn’t commit to me.” “Shows good sense on her part.” “Thanks for nothing.” “Come on, Harley. I’ll put Meg on speaker phone.” “Are you gonna to hide out for the rest of your life, or are you gonna live?” “Man, I just broke up with the love of my life, gimme a break, will ya?” “Okay, okay. Go home and sulk. I’m going out.” Harley slapped some aftershave on his face and shook his head.

One by one, his teammates stopped by to slap Mark on the shoulder or the butt before they left. No one said a word about Penny or the pictures. They pity me. God, that’s almost worse. Mark couldn’t when he was this depressed. He drove slowly, not anxious to be in the apartment without her. She had become a fixture. He had looked forward to getting home and talking about his day, what he did right and what he did wrong on the field. She was a good listener. Penny had a way of joking him out of a bad mood, or, if that failed, loving him out of one. He’d never had a woman who cared for him the way she did. Or who could love him like she did. She was fire, igniting him in a matter of seconds whenever she turned up the flame. He craved her—her soft, smooth skin, the subtle scent of lily about her, and the taste of her lips, her mouth, her body. Was this love? Probably. Come and gone so quickly, he’d barely had time to grasp it with his heart before it was torn from him, leaving him bloodied inside and out. A couple of days later, the dark cloud still hovered over his emotions. Misery was his companion. The clink of his keys in the bowl by the door echoed in the empty space. He sighed. The silence reminded him that Penny wasn’t there. No cheery greeting. No wonderful smells of dinner cooking. No soft, willing woman to warm his bed. No snuggling in front of the television. The place, once grown to be a home, had shrunk to become only an empty shell. He sighed. What could he do? He didn’t expose those pictures. He wasn’t responsible. How could he look the other way? He opened the bag with a burger in it, but had no appetite. He searched through movies, but didn’t find anything that could hold his interest. Like a man obsessed, he turned on her program and sat back. Watching her on screen helped and hurt at the same time. Will I never see her again? Never kiss her? Touch her? The thought was too much. He shut off his mind and watched. Then, his cell rang. It was Meg. “Hey, Squirt.” “Hey, yourself, you big jerk. What the hell did you do to Penny?”

“Did she call you?” “I called her. We talk from time to time. I like her. She wouldn’t speak to me. What the hell happened, and what did you do?” “Nothing. It’s not your business.” “Everything about you is my business. You’re my twin.” “Not this. Butt out.” “Don’t you dare hang up on me!” Meg yelled into the phone. She always called when he most needed to talk to her. How did she know? Twin telepathy? He caved. “Okay, okay. You don’t have to yell.” “Tell me, Lug,” she said, her voice soft. “You’re hurting. Tell me what happened.” He took a beer from the fridge, sat back on the sofa and spilled everything. Meg listened, only interrupting occasionally with a question. “Wow. Are you okay? Did that demon seed, Sweetwater, injure you? Can you play?” “I’m a little banged up. I’ll live. Yeah, I can still play.” “What are you going to do?” “I don’t know.” Then, it happened, something that hadn’t happened since he was fifteen. He cried in front of his sister. Tears cascaded down his face, his voice shook, and he couldn’t control it, no matter how hard he tried. “Oh, Lug, Mark...” Meg started to cry on the other end. That made Mark laugh. “We can’t both cry, Squirt,” he said. Megan sniffled into the phone. “I know you’re really upset. But I can’t believe you didn’t let her explain.” “It doesn’t make any difference why she did it. It’s done.”

“Come on, Mark. You’re no innocent, either. You’ve done a few marginal things in your life.” “Yeah? Like what?” “Like when your girlfriend discovered you in Miami with two women in your bed.” “Those were Darvin’s women. I just gave them a place to sleep.” “Sure, sure. Did she believe you?” “No, and who told you?” “What difference does it make? I know.” He plucked another beer from the fridge. “Harley.” “And your teammates? Not exactly a bunch of Choir Boys, either! How many have been caught with their pants down? There was the one with a ménage, and wasn’t there a tight end who exposed himself? And a guard arrested for an illegal gun?” “All right, all right. I get it.” “Did you think a woman as pretty as she is, and an actress, might not have a past?” There was silence. “Lug?” “I’m still here. I hadn’t thought of it like that.” He took a swig. “Date an ugly girl, and you won’t have nude photos showing up. At least hear her out. How can you break up when you don’t know why she did it?” That idea had been nagging him ever since his blow-up. Leave it to Meg to find the sore spot. I should have listened. “I was too angry. It wouldn’t have mattered what she said.”

“I get it. Are you calm enough to listen now?” “Maybe.” “I’m going to call her and find out what it is. I’ll call you back.” She hung up. Mark pressed play and watched the rest of the program. God, he missed Penny. What the hell had he done? Meg was right. None of the guys on his team could throw stones at Penny or him, either. When he thought about them, there were plenty of skeletons to go around. Shame swept through him. I didn’t even give her a chance. Now, it might be too late. When the show was over, he ed her last words. “Call me when you’re rational.” Maybe she’d explain to him now. Before he could dial, his cell rang again. Maybe it’s Penny.

Chapter Six

Penny didn’t how she had gotten home that night. She had been numb, her body working without her mind giving orders. Mark’s anger shook her to her roots. Yes, she had done something she was ashamed of, but for a desperate reason. She went to a coffee shop and sat by the window sipping an iced latte, ing the cold look in his eyes. One glance from him had chilled her to the bone, and she shivered at the memory. They say love can turn to hate in an instant. Guess that’s true. A heaviness surrounded her heart as sadness seeped deeper inside. What’s wrong with me? How could I fall so hard, so fast? Where’s my head? Out to lunch. Had she loved Mark? It had started out as only a bit of friendship and strong physical attraction. His handsome face, clear blue eyes, and gorgeous, fit body had lured her. The lingering scent of his aftershave mixed with his unique essence had seduced her, too. She had fought it, afraid she’d get dumped by a callow athlete just out for easy sex. But she had gotten a peek underneath his jersey and found a heart of gold. Mark was a real man in ways no other guy she’d dated could claim. Her first keeper. You only need one. She ired his responsibility to his family, his loyalty to his friends and his team. He seemed so solid, a hard worker, a star. Just exactly the kind of man she’d been looking for. Mark Davis, a rock, sexy, warm, funny, and at the top of his game. A tidal wave of love had washed over her, warming and opening her heart. As quickly as it came, it had disappeared, leaving cold suspicion in its wake. Penny was stunned, breathless, speechless, and bereft. She wanted Mark, with every fiber of her being. Wanted to make love with him, wanted him to love her and to love him back. She had given him her heart before she’d thought about it. He had claimed it, and she went along, willingly, eagerly. Now, it lay broken in a million pieces. He was gone. She was alone and sure she’d never find another man so strong and vital to replace him.

Thoughts of Mark brought fresh tears. They were to wash away the pain, but they never did. The release of sorrow helped lighten her load, but only temporarily. Her roommates questioned her when she returned in a fog, unresponsive and dazed. But she couldn’t answer. She was still coping with what had happened, trying to take it in. Shame at the humiliation Mark had endured in front of his teammates made her blush. She wished with all her heart she could wipe those pictures from the memories of the men. Mortification for having caused the man she adored so much agony filled her heart. I don’t deserve him. As much as her rational mind told her that, she refused to let him go. After a few days with no communication, she knew he wasn’t going to reach out to her, and the wound was re-opened, like a scab ripped off prematurely. It bled anew. He’s gone. Face it. But she couldn’t give up hope. What we had was real. He must feel what I feel. She waited, day after day, for the call that never came. She left the café and strolled home. A brief breeze tickled her neck. For a second, she thought it was the brush of Mark’s fingers. She loved the way he touched her, sometimes gentle, sometimes ionate and demanding. She ached for him every night. It was as if her body had a memory, and when she slipped between the sheets, her senses heightened, awaiting glorious lovemaking with Mark. Falling asleep tucked in his arms was the best. Disappointment left her feeling frustrated and abandoned. Then, Megan called, just to catch up. To chat, shoot the breeze, gossip a bit, and trade confidences the way they did about once a week. Penny had liked Meg right away. Her straightforward attitude and warmth had put Penny at ease immediately. They had hit it off, just like she had with Mark. After all, they’re twins. The phone was insistent, and she couldn’t ignore it, though she’d have to grope for what to say when she spoke to Megan. She had answered. With as few words as possible, Penny indicated she and Mark were no longer together. When quizzed by her new friend, she refused to explain. If Mark wants to tell her, let him, if he hasn’t already. I can’t. Finally unable to hold back tears, she hung up quickly, drying her eyes and turning off her cell. But not for long. Mark can’t reach me if the phone is off.

Finding the concentration to memorize her lines was almost impossible. She kept reciting them aloud, hoping her brain was on automatic pilot and would . In the middle, the familiar ring sounded. She dove for it. Megan again. “I spoke to Mark. I know everything from his side. But I don’t know yours. Please, tell me what happened, Penny? What drove you to have those pictures taken?” Dying to explain to Mark, she broke down with Megan. Words rushed out of her in an avalanche, hurtling through her mouth before Megan could take it all in. “Slow down, slow down! I won’t hang up, I promise.” Penny took a deep breath. “Okay.” “All right. Start from the time you got the verdict.”

****

Mark was drinking a lager while watching re-runs of Las Vegas Beat when Meg called back. “Hey, Squirt. What’s up?” “I spoke to Penny.” Mark put the TV on pause. “And?” “And you need to talk to her. She told me why she posed for those pictures. I think it would change your mind, Lug. Call her.” “Wait! Don’t hang up. What did she say?” “Uh uh. I’m not going to be any more of a middleman than I am already. Call her. You need to talk to each other.”

“A quick phone conversation ought to do it.” “Nope. In person. Call her to arrange a time and place. She won’t tell you over the phone. She’s already decided that.” “Damn stubborn woman!” He sucked down a mouthful of beer. Meg laughed. “Yeah, paired up with a damn stubborn man. Call her!” The phone went dead. The heaviness in him lifted a little. If Meg thinks it’s okay, then it probably is. He was excited and apprehensive at the thought of talking to Penny, but he opened his cell. “Penny?” Silence greeted him. “Meg suggested I call you. She said we should get together. That you have something to say that I need to hear.” “That’s what I tried to tell you.” The edge in her voice rankled him. “Look, if this is going to be your chance to bash me, forget it.” “Don’t hang up! Wait! No. It’s to share the truth with you.” He couldn’t resist. “The truth?” “The reason I posed for those pictures.” “Okay. I’ll listen. Can you be here tomorrow after practice? I’ll pick up some burgers.” “Are you sure? You don’t have to. I can feed myself,” she said. “It’s okay. I want to.” She seemed surprised by his offer. There was no heat of anger inside him now, only a hollowness he desperately needed to fill. “All right. See you around six.” She ended the call. The next day, Mark approached the locker room with new hope. He ignored

comments from Darvin because he couldn’t afford another huge fine, but it didn’t stop his wanting to smash the quarterback’s smug face. His other teammates tiptoed around the issue, not anxious to rile the second-stringer. Mark explained to Harley about his planned meeting with Penny. “I always liked her, Mark. Glad you’re not going to continue being a jerk.” “A jerk?” “You heard me. Let’s go.” Harley and Mark trotted out onto the field and began their warm-up exercises. His keen ability to concentrate had returned. He had the best practice he’d had in days. Coach nodded at him and almost smiled. Energy once again surged through his veins. He didn’t know what Penny was going to say, but Megan’s reassurance calmed him, made him optimistic. While he sat on a bench, toweling his hair dry, he didn’t notice the other men leave the shower area. Darvin sauntered up to him. “Davis. Got an offer you can’t refuse.” “I have nothing to say to you, Sweetwater.” “Coach says the owner is coming to see the practice in two weeks. That’s when he’s going to pick who to cut. Here’s the deal. You screw up, miss a throw or two, and I won’t send your girlfriend’s pictures to Celebs ’R Us.” “Screw you.” “Yeah? Her tits will look great spread across the cover on every newsstand in the country.” Mark’s blood began to boil. He pushed to his feet and backed his enemy up against the wall. “Asshole! You do that, and I’ll...” “There you are!” Harley said, pulling on Mark’s arm, yanking him away from trouble. “ what I said,” Darvin hissed. “Let’s go, let’s go, ladies are waiting,” Harley said, pushing Mark to his locker.

Mark dressed quickly and followed Harley to the parking lot. “What were you doing?” Harley asked when they were a safe distance away. “That fucking asshole is going to send Penny’s pictures to a tabloid if I don’t blow practice.” “What?” “You heard me. It’s blackmail. He demanded that I screw up when the owner comes for his final evaluation.” Harley stopped in his tracks. “That dirty son of a bitch!” “He can threaten all he wants. I need this job. This is my career, and I’m not going to let him push me out.” “What about Penny?” Mark stopped. He didn’t want to hurt her, but having those pictures taken was her choice. She’d have to live with it. “Nothing I can do. Besides, I wouldn’t trust him not to send them in no matter what I do. She made that bed, she’ll have to lie in it.”

****

Penny paced nervously in front of Mark’s building. Since she no longer had the key, she’d have to wait until he got home to go inside. It had been a busy day. She had done some retakes in the morning, followed by a quick rehearsal for her scene the next day. Then the hairdresser, nail salon, and a long, hot bath before she faced the wrath of Mark. Finally, she spotted his car drive up. He looked taller as he approached. His stride was easy, not angry. Maybe he’s not mad anymore? He nodded at her and held the door open.

They were quiet in the elevator and all the way to the apartment. Mark put the bag of food down and offered her a beer or glass of wine. She opted for wine. He plopped down on the sofa, toying with his brew, and she sat opposite him, wrapping her delicate fingers around her glass. He made eye . “Okay, Penny. Shoot. I’m listening.” “Can I spit it out, and you ask questions when I’m done? Interruptions make me nervous.” “Sure.” She took a swallow of her wine, a deep breath, and began. “I was twenty-one when I had those taken. I had been modeling on and off, trying to get work in commercials. My father’s drinking had gotten so bad he couldn’t hold a job. I had moved back home and was making the mortgage payments, the car payments, and buying food to keep him from being homeless.” “Don’t models make good money?” She looked up at him. “Please, Mark.” “Sorry.” “I made decent money, when I worked, which wasn’t all the time. But the bills kept piling up. Electric, gas, phone, gas for the car. And, of course, liquor.” “You paid for your father’s liquor? Why didn’t you just cut him off?” “I did. He stole from me. Not all the time, but little bits here and there. Sometimes, a piece of jewelry went missing. My mother’s pearl necklace, my grandmother’s watch...” She stopped to take a breath, blinking back tears. He squeezed her hand. “I’d see them in the pawn shop window. Sometimes, if I’d been working more, I’d foolishly buy them back instead of saving my money. He’d simply steal them again. Sometimes, he sold stuff from friends or acquaintances. Or, he’d run up a bar tab. And the marshall would come put a lien on the house until I paid up. The house was in his name. He had his little ways, and I was too naïve and stupid to be one step ahead.”

“It must have been hard.” “It was. He’d apologize and say it wouldn’t happen again, but it always did. He kept taking my car and driving drunk. He got three DUI’s. That’s when I got the call. The call that changed everything.” She stopped to take a sip and compose herself. “It was from the police. He’d been arrested. It was awful, because they wouldn’t let him out on bail this time. He had to stand trial. You can’t imagine what it does to see your father in jail.” Mark sat quietly, staring at her. The expression on his face appeared sympathetic. But her confidence was so shaken, she didn’t trust her own instincts. “What did you do?” Mark sucked on his beer. “The judge gave him one chance.” “And that was?” Mark seemed to be hanging on every word. “If my dad agreed to go to rehab, he’d suspend his sentence.” She sipped her wine. “And did he?” “We didn’t have the money to send him. I wanted to. He swore up and down that he’d kick alcohol, if he could only go to rehab instead of jail. I believed him. He seemed so sincere.” “And did he?” “With legal fees, on top of everything, I was broke. I’d been modeling some, but rehab was five thousand dollars a week. A week! Can you imagine? He was supposed to go for a minimum of three weeks. The counselor told me he needed to go for four weeks. Where was I going to get twenty grand?” Penny twisted a tissue in her hands. Mark leaned forward. “What did you do?” “I went crying to one of the photographers I knew. He’d asked me to pose nude before, but I’d turned him down. He’d offered me a lot of money.”

Mark hung his head. “But this time...” “This time, I said ‘yes.’ I had no other choice. My back was to the wall. How could I let my father rot in jail for five years because I wouldn’t take my clothes off for a few pictures? He swore they were only for one private client and would never surface publicly. Like an idiot, I believed him. What would you have done?” By now, tears were streaming down her face. She tried to clean them up, but they kept coming. Mark sat with his head in his hands. “I had no idea those pictures would still be around years later. If I’d known then that my father was manipulating me again and never intended to give up alcohol, I would’ve left him in jail. I was only twenty-one, and he was all I had. So, I believed him.” “What happened with the pictures?” Penny dried her eyes. “The shoot was awful. I hated being naked in front of Fred. He was a letch. I did it as fast as I could and covered up between shots. Then, he asked me out and refused to accept ‘no.’ So, I hit him.” Mark’s head snapped up. “You hit him?” “I’m not proud of it, but I had to defend myself. He wouldn’t leave me alone, had his hands all over me. I grabbed an empty bottle we were using as a prop and bashed him over the head. He wasn’t unconscious, but he was dazed. I finished dressing, grabbed my check, and flew out of his place. I went right to the bank, as I was afraid he’d stop payment.” “That was quick thinking.” She shivered at the memory. “When my father got out of rehab, he went right back to drinking. He showed up on my doorstep, drunk, begging for money.” “What did you do?” “I had stopped paying for the house. I let it go into default, saving up enough money to start over. When he showed up, I was preparing to leave anyway. I told him to come back later in the week when I got paid. But that was a lie. He believed me and left. The next morning, I packed my car, cleaned out my back , and left town. I went to Los Angles to stay with a friend. She helped me

get an agent, and I got this job.” “Wow.” He shook his head. “He found me once in L.A. because of a TV show I did. But I gave him the slip. I’ve been running from him ever since.” “That’s a horrible story, Penny.” “Can you see how the pictures are just a small part of it for me?” “I do. I’m sorry. So sorry you had to do that...live like that.” He pushed to his feet and took her in his arms. He stroked her hair. “You’ll never have to go through that again.” “I’m sorry, Mark. I should have told you. I was afraid you’d dump me if you found out, and I love you so much, I couldn’t bear it.” She sobbed into his chest. “I love you, too, baby.” He rubbed her back. She calmed down in his arms, soothed by his strength and affection. Her tears subsided. She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply. His masculine scent mixed with his aftershave smelled good. Her hands clung to his back, and her breasts were crushed into his chest. He held her tight, resting his chin on her head. Before long, her breathing returned to normal. She wiped her eyes for the millionth time and tried to smile. “Your life’s been hard.” “I’ve had some success, been sought after by good people, like you, too.” “I’m sorry I got so mad. I should’ve listened. Given you the benefit of the doubt.” “Maybe we were both wrong,” she said. “I’m starved. Can we eat?” “Only if you’ll come back to me. I’ve missed you so much. Been totally miserable without you.” He loosened his grip. “You have?”

He nodded. “You ruined me for anyone else. I need you.” He lowered his mouth to hers in a ionate kiss. Penny melted against him, winding her arms around his neck. “I need you, too. It was so awful, being apart.” She toyed with his shirt buttons, undoing the top two and running her fingertips through his chest hair. “I figured you’d had about five hundred dates by now, with new guys drooling over you.” She laughed. “Not exactly. No one else’ll do. Were you jealous?” “Yeah.” He blushed. “I got you a blue cheeseburger,” he said, changing the subject. “My favorite!” She opened the bag and took out the food. Then, she grabbed plates and set everything out. “You back in my kitchen makes everything right again.” She smiled at him. “Next, in my bed,” he snickered. “Before dinner or after?” She sidled up to him and shot him a saucy look. “Guess I can wait until after we eat.” “Anticipation only whets the appetite.” She pulled out a chair. “Is that a famous saying? Who said that?” “I said it. Eat so we can get to the main course.” He laughed as he ed her at the table. “What are you going to do about the team?” she asked, taking a big bite of her burger. “Forget about it. Fuck them. They’re not exactly saints. So, they saw you. Let them be jealous. That’s what Meg said, and she’s right.” Penny sensed heat in her cheeks.

“I might want a wallet size to remind me what I’m missing, when I’m on the road.” She chuckled. “I don’t have those, you know.” “No? You don’t have them stashed anywhere? What a shame. They are great pictures of you, but only for my eyes.” From now on, I’m only for your eyes, sweetie pie. Penny inched her hand closer to his. He picked up on it and closed his fingers over hers. She needed to touch him, to be connected. As she looked into his eyes, she saw lust mixed with love. All doubt had disappeared. She sighed and smiled. I’m better with Mark. She stared at the part of his chest where she’d opened his shirt. Her fingertips tingled, ing the feel of his skin as they made love. A shiver of desire shot up her spine. She noticed his gaze drop to her chest and remain. He was practically drooling, and it made her chuckle. They ate faster than usual. Mark cleared the table, and Penny stood up. “I’ve waited long enough,” he said, scooping her up into his arms and carrying her into the bedroom. She shrieked with laughter as he dropped her to bounce on the bed. He stripped his clothes off in a heartbeat and crawled up towards her. “You look mighty uncomfortable in that dress. Let me help you,” he said, reaching around to pull the zipper down. She shed the top of the garment, pushing it to her waist, revealing her generous breasts nestled in a white lace bra. “Nice,” he said, focusing on her chest. Penny buried her face in his neck, kissing her way to his shoulder. Mark cupped her breasts, raising them to his lips. One hand snaked around her back to flip open her bra. “You do that like an expert,” she said, lifting her head. He chuckled. “Guilty as charged.” The bra slipped down her arms and onto the bed. “Much better,” he said, staring at her. Penny ran her hand down his cheek. He turned to kiss her palm. “Let’s get that off,” he said, tugging on the pink dress pooled around her waist. Penny pushed up on her arms, allowing Mark to slip it down then yank it off and toss it on a chair. His eyes feasted on the lacy white bikinis she wore. He bent his

head to kiss her abs, flattening, then circling his soft, wet tongue on her skin. “You taste good,” he murmured. The sensation he created sent heat directly to her core. He looked up before kissing his way to her chest. “I’ve missed these,” he said, taking her peak into his mouth while his hand squeezed her other breast. Penny dropped her head back and opened her legs. Mark moved between them and perched on his knees. She combed her fingers through his hair and down his back, digging the tips into his muscles. His shoulders seemed as wide as goal posts as they hovered over her. He moved up to nibble on her earlobe. “I love you,” he whispered so softly she wasn’t sure if it was him or her own wishful thinking combining with a breeze from the window. “Do you?” she asked, raising her head to make eye with him. “Hell, yeah.” The blue of his eyes was so clear and bright. She believed him. Happiness washed through her from head to toe. I want him. He’s mine. “Then, take me. Make love to me,” she whispered. “I’m not through playin’ yet, and you’re not ready.” “I am, I am.” “No, you’re not. Not as ready as I want you.” He shot her a sexy smile and gently pushed her back down on the bed. “Relax. Let me do the work.” She chuckled and closed her eyes. Mark amused himself rolling her nipples between his fingers and kissing her breasts before he traveled south, dragging his hands across her chest, then down her belly. He hooked a thumb in each side of her panties and slipped them off in one movement. He settled between her thighs and went to work raising her heat level to unbearable. Penny squirmed under his expert touch as the tension in her body grew tighter and tighter. She raised her hips up, and fisted the sheet. “Oh, God, Mark! If you don’t...” She cried out as the volcano inside her erupted, spilling pleasure through every inch of her. Finally, he stopped and sat back on his calves. The shit-eating grin he wore made her laugh.

“I owned you,” he said. “You did. Absolutely, you did.” “You’d’ve done anything I asked.” “I would’ve, I would,” she said, nodding and still panting slightly as she pushed up on her elbows. “My turn.” His eyebrows shot up. “What? The king never gives up the scepter.” “Hmm, I might just have a few tricks of my own.” She gazed at him with ion. Before he could say or do anything, she bent down and took him into her mouth. “Holy Mother of God, Penny!” Mark closed his eyes. She ignored him and kept on. “You’re not going to get what you want if you don’t stop,” he warned. She sat up and grinned. Mark grabbed a condom from the nightstand and covered himself. “Round two,” he said, lying back, wrapping his long fingers around her hips and lifting her to straddle him as if she were as light as a summer breeze. She guided him into her while Mark lowered her down. Her knees hugged him as he filled her completely. She flattened her palms on his wide, firm chest and lifted her hips. “I want to see you, touch you.” He ran his hands down her side then over her breasts. “Oh, God, Mark.” Penny’s eyes fluttered shut, her breathing becoming shallow. She moved up and down in a steady rhythm on him as he caressed her skin and squeezed her flesh. She bent to kiss him. He snaked his arm around behind her and held her while he ravaged her mouth. When he let her up, her lips were slightly swollen and desire was running wild inside her. His eyes glowed and his lips curled into a sexy smile. He clasped her to him, holding her firmly with one, powerful arm, while he rolled them over with the other.

“I want to take you this way,” he said, propping up on his knees and pounding into her. The increased speed set her off. Another cry and her hips bucked then moved with his. He maintained his rhythm, quickly bringing himself to a climax. A loud groan and closed eyes showed her he was done. He lowered himself to her, dripping sweat on the pillow, hiding his face in her neck. “Oh, my God, that was cataclysmic,” he said. “Hell, yeah,” she responded. “You’re an amazing lover.” She licked his shoulder, savoring the saltiness mixed with the essence of his skin. “So are you. So responsive, my queen.” She laughed. “As you wish, my lord.” He chuckled and rolled off her. Penny cozied up to him, resting her hand on his chest as she tucked her head into his shoulder. He makes me feel safe. Can I stay like this forever? Drowsiness weighed her eyelids down, and before long, she was asleep.

Chapter Seven

Mark eased himself out from under Penny’s embrace without waking her. He smiled down at her then kissed her hair and pulled the covers up. Make up sex is everything it’s cracked up to be. He slipped his boxers on and padded into the living room. Gotta call Meg. Before he could dial his sister, Penny’s cell rang. He glanced at the screen and read “agent” before it went to voicemail. He shrugged and decided not to wake her. “Hey, Squirt, whatcha up to?” “Did you talk to Penny?” “I did.” “And?” “We’re back.” He swore he could hear her smile over the phone. “Thank God. Honestly, Lug. You scared me. She’s great. Don’t lose her again, okay?” “Aye, aye, Captain! Thanks for your help.” “I don’t think I’ve ever heard you so miserable over a woman before.” “There’s never been a woman like her before. Not for me.” He paced. “So, why are you calling me?” “Thought you’d want to know.” “Figured you’d get it if you listened. It’s late. I gotta get back to my books.” “Don’t you ever go out?”

“Not much. Gotta get the highest grades, so I can get the best job, one that pays the most. Then, I’ll get out of your hair.” There was a moment of silence before Mark spoke. “You’re not in my hair, Squirt. Not to get mushy, but I’m glad you’re my sister.” “I know, Mark. It’s just that you’ve done it all. You’ve ed me long enough.” “I don’t mind. As soon as I get a starting slot, money won’t be a problem anymore.” “You’re the best, Lug. I lucked out getting you for a brother.” “Go out, Meg. Have some fun.” “What will Harley say?” “Fuck him. Have a life, kid. You work hard. You deserve it.” “Thanks. I will, when I graduate. Love you, Lug. ’Night.” “Love you, too, Squirt.” Closing his phone, Mark went back to bed, easing in as gently as possible so as not to wake Penny. She rolled over, slinging her arm around his waist. He pulled her close, resting his cheek on her head. He pushed unpleasant thoughts about Darvin Sweetwater and the pressure to impress the owner out of his mind. It had been too long since he’d snuggled with Penny, and he wanted to enjoy this peaceful time with her. He took a deep breath, noting the familiar fragrance of lily mixed with Penny’s sweet scent. Doubt about his feelings for her had disappeared. Her story tore at his heart. While she appeared to be a glamorous woman without a care in the world, her life had been anything but. He didn’t expect to find such an injured, vulnerable woman when he went out with her. Mark hadn’t been interested in settling down. He was only twenty-four, popular, and had big financial responsibilities. So, when he had started dating Penny, he had figured it for the most amazing fun time ever. Instead, he got a view of what real love looked like. While other women turned a deaf ear to his financial

burdens, and only wanted to know what he could do for them, buy them, Penny was different. Hell, yeah, women were willing to sleep with a rich football player who took them out to expensive dinners and bought them pricey clothes with fancy labels. Mark wasn’t in that category. No stranger to having women snub him and call him cheap when he watched his dollars, he had become a bit jaded. Was every woman only interested in his status and bank ? What would happen when he got hired as a starter? His salary would soar. How would he weed out the fortune hunters, only interested in his money? Then, Penny had come along. He’d never had a woman tell him she ired him for his devotion to his family, his frugality. No one. He certainly didn’t expect that from the world’s most beautiful woman. He hadn’t approached her like all the other men, interested in basking in her fame and sleeping with her. Mark hadn’t considered her a conquest, but he had been smitten and had wanted a physical relationship so bad he could taste it. When Penny had called him on it, he became embarrassed. She was right. Men were out for one thing, above all else. Her understanding of his obligations had endeared her to him. He had begun to see her as more than a gorgeous body and face, but as a person, a friend, as well as a lover. She put him at ease, was game to go bowling instead of to a fancy, expensive club. Her acceptance of Mark, the man, instead of Mark, the football star, started the seeds of true love in his heart. Megan disapproved of the other women he had dated. She called them “callow,” “shallow,” “money-grubbing” sluts who would do anything for an expensive, designer handbag. He had laughed at the time, because he thought all women were like that, except his sister. But Meg liked Penny, and that meant everything to Mark. Megan had always had his back, and he trusted her with his life. Her confirmation of his feelings toward Penny boosted his confidence. Penny was a gem, a real woman, who loved him for who he was. He found that quality in her priceless. Snuggling with her eased his mind. As long as she was by his side, he knew he’d figure out what to do about the team. He wrapped an arm over her and was soon asleep.

Mark rose at six the next morning. Again, he slid out of bed without disturbing Penny. She rolled over, mumbled something, but didn’t wake up. He had an early workout session and practice. After a shower, he threw on his warm-up clothes, stopped at a fast food t to pick up a couple of egg sandwiches, and headed for the stadium. He sat down with Harley and ate his breakfast. Harley sloshed his food down with a big cup of orange juice. “Rumor has it a scout is coming to our game.” “Really? When?” Mark asked between bites. “In a couple of weeks.” Mark shrugged. “Doesn’t matter. Darvin’ll be playing. I’ll never get on the field.” “Might be something we can do about that.” “What? Talk to him? He’d never agree. He hates me and wouldn’t help me if his life depended on it.” “You’re right. But I had another idea.” Harley’s voice dropped to a whisper as he leaned closer to Mark.

****

Penny awoke to an empty bed. She threw on one of Mark’s T-shirts and padded into the living room, looking for her lover. The smell of fresh coffee drew her attention. There was a note taped to the coffee pot. Smart guy. He knew the first place I’d look. Resting against the paper was a set of keys.

Penny –

Early practice. I’ll be back at five. Will you be here? I hope so. Last night was amazing. Hoping for a repeat tonight. Text me your plans for today. Love, Mark

She settled back on the sofa with her mug and picked up her phone. Her agent, Keith Peters, had called. Wonder what he wants? The clock on the wall said it was eight. Too early to call. She finished her drink and jumped in the shower. Drying her face in one of Mark’s big, blue towels, she smelled him. His scent always made her smile. His hairbrush on the counter, razor, and toothbrush all reminded her of him. She touched the articles, feeling a connection with him, even though he wasn’t there. Is he really okay about the pictures, or just saying that to sleep with me? Is he going to dump me? I don’t think so. She’d tried to deny her feelings, but could no longer fool herself. She was in love with Mark Davis, and there was no going back. She had taken a seat on a roller coaster. Riding it all the way to the end made her queasy. Penny had bailed quickly on bad relationships in the past, not being surprised by disappointment after disappointment. Mark had slipped under her armor, digging a tunnel straight to her heart. She was elated one minute and scared to death the next. Pushing insecure thoughts out of her mind, Penny wrapped herself in his terrycloth robe. She picked up his brush and sank into the comfort of the sofa to untangle her hair. A glance at the clock—nine—meant she could call Keith. She sat back, waiting for him to answer. “Hey, Penny. How you doin’?” “Fine, Keith. What’s up?”

“Bad news, I’m afraid.” Penny’s heart rate kicked up. Her pulse pounded in her ears. “What?” She sat up straight. “They’re writing you out of the show. Killing off your character.” She gasped. “Oh, no! Really?” “Yep. I’m so sorry, Penny.” Tears choked her. “What am I going to do?” “I’m working on something. We’ve got to strike now, while they still think you’re on the series. Once you’re off, you’ll grow cold. Hang in there.” He hung up. I knew I wasn’t any good. I was lucky to keep it as long as I did. What am I going to do for money? Spend what I’ve saved for school, that’s what. Penny opened Mark’s computer and checked the amount of the money she’d managed to squirrel away. Rainy day money, and now it was pouring. The balance was enough to keep her for six months, if she didn’t spend for anything but food, rent, and gas for her car. After that? She shivered at the uncertainty of her future. What about Mark? What would he say? He’s about more than me being on a TV show. Isn’t he? She was in love with Mark, desperately, totally, but how would he react to her news? If he tossed her out, she didn’t know what she’d do. Piecing together a shattered heart was no easy task, and one that Penny didn’t relish. Her nerves had her body on high alert. Tell him soon, so you know where you stand. She blew out a breath, slipped on her panties, jeans, and his shirt. Time to return home and figure out her life, for the umpteenth time. Acting is so insecure. Up one day, down the next. She returned with a bag of groceries and texted Mark that she’d have dinner ready when he got home. He replied back that he’d be there by six. Penny pulled out her mother’s recipe for beef brisket. She had five hours until he returned. Plenty of time. She preheated the oven, emptied the bag, and sighed. Okay, mom, do your magic. Please, don’t let Mark leave me. She turned on the radio and took heart when the song “Gone, Gone, Gone” by Phillip Phillips

came on. She sang along, hoping that the words about long-lasting love would become true for her. Although she tried to push concern over where her next job was coming from out of her mind, her nerves were on edge. She had cried at first, for a brief bit, not allowing herself to wallow. I’ve got to get up and back in the game. Think about something else. She loved to cook. Her mom had taught Penny all her secrets, and they had often cooked together when Penny was little. She washed lettuce for a salad. Cut up tomatoes, mixed up a chocolate pudding on the stove, and kept music playing. Still, the edginess didn’t leave her body. A glass of wine helped some. She danced in the small kitchen to keep her mind off her troubles while she tended to the food. The aroma of the brisket made the apartment smell delicious. Having skipped lunch because she was too upset to eat, the smell of the cooking meat made her stomach rumble. Comfort food will help. The sound of the lock tumblers moving drew her attention. A last minute primp on her hair and a smile plastered on her face didn’t still the thump, thump, thump of her heart. Mark came through the door, looking freshly scrubbed and handsome as ever. As his tall figure moved toward her, she blurted out, “I got fired today.”

****

“What?” Mark’s face screwed up. “What happened?” “I got fired,” Penny said. “And dinner’s ready.” “Crap! That’s awful.” He folded her into his embrace. “Are you okay?” She sniffled a little as a shudder washed through her body. He tightened his grip. “You’re not okay. What happened?” He refreshed her wine and grabbed a cold beer before he sat down on the sofa. “But dinner...”

“Can’t it wait? This is important.” I’m starving, but she needs to talk. “Okay, but just a few minutes. I don’t want to ruin the brisket.” His mouth watered when she mentioned the word “brisket.” He took a slug of his lager. Penny went through her conversation with Keith. “They decided to change the storyline. So, they’re killing off my character.” “What does that mean?” “It means, after this episode we’re shooting next week, I’m unemployed. That happens in this business. You’re never secure.” “I’m sorry, honey. You can give up your place and stay with me as long as you like, rent free.” Her eyes watered, but she blinked back the tears. “Thanks, Mark.” She fidgeted, twisting a paper towel in her hands, looking down. “Why don’t we continue this over dinner?” He got up. Penny busied herself serving the food. He helped carry the platter to the table. “I’ll do this,” he said, taking the large fork and sharp knife from her hands. “After dad took off, Mom told me I’d be doing all the ‘man chores,’ like carving. I’m not bad.” She doled out the other dishes while he cut the meat. Like a regular family. He smiled at the thought. They sat down to eat. Mark put a forkful of the tender beef in his mouth. “This is amazing. You made this?” She nodded. “Wow! Gorgeous, sexy, and cooks like a pro. You’ve got it all, babe.” Penny dug into her food. She grinned at him. “So what happens now? Do you need some money to tide you over?” She shook her head. “I’ve got some saved up. Been saving to go to design school. This just means it’ll happen a little later.”

“How do you find work?” “My agent. Keith’s been pretty good.” “Does he hit on you?” Has she been sleeping with him? “He did the first time I met him, but not anymore. Now, we’re friends, sort of. Business friends. He gets a piece of whatever I get, so he’s looking to find me work.” “How long will it take?” Penny’s eyes filled. “That’s the problem. You never know how long it’ll take to get a new part on TV or in a movie. It can take a week or years. I might be homeless...” Mark reached for her hand. “You’ll never be homeless, honey. Stay with me. Move in here.” The anguish in her voice went straight to his heart. “Keith said he was working on something for me, so maybe this is premature,” she said, blinking back tears. “I’m here. My house is your house.” “Would you mind if I came to stay for a few days?” “It’d be great. I’d love it.” He grinned. Having her here warming my bed, cooking...a dream come true. She gave him a shy smile and turned her attention to the food on her plate. Suddenly the single life, clubbing, drinking too much, paled. Having Penny with him every day made him smile. He’d trade nameless sex for nights with her in a heartbeat. If I’m gonna have the responsibilities of a husband, maybe I should become one. He liked the idea of having his own little family. She reached over and squeezed his hand. First, I need to make sure my job is secure. “Thank you. You don’t know how much it means to me to know I can crash here.” “You have the keys. Come whenever you want. Stay as long as you like.”

The tiny lines around her eyes smoothed out, and her face relaxed. She beamed at him, making his heart sing. I put that smile on her face. “How are things with the Gamblers?” she asked, changing the subject. “Darvin’s a pain in the ass.” Don’t tell her about the threat. Not today. “Why? I thought he was just a big-headed idiot.” “Worse. He knows I’m as good as he is, maybe better...don’t mean to brag, but it’s the truth. And he wants me gone. He’s afraid I’m going to steal his spot.” “Could you?” “I dunno. The owner’s coming to check out practice. He’s going to make some cuts. Sweetwater is scared shitless he’s gonna be cut and I’m gonna stay. I’m probably a whole lot cheaper than Darvin.” “Could that happen?” She put a carrot in her mouth. “I doubt it. Teams don’t change quarterback’s unless someone can’t hit his man, gets injured, or arrested. Darvin doesn’t show signs of any of those.” “So, what’s his problem?” “Don’t know. Don’t care. I wouldn’t mind leaving The Gamblers. Time for me to move on.” Her face fell. Mark reached across the table to take her hand. “Not leaving you behind.” A look of relief washed across her features. “Harley said there’s a rumor that a scout is coming to check out a game. Of course, it won’t matter, because Darvin’ll be playing. I doubt the scout’ll recruit him. Darvin’s thirty-three, he’s only got a few good years left. The scout won’t get to see me play, so no chance of an offer. For now, I’m not going anyplace.” “Are you discouraged?”

“I want to play every week. I’m like a racehorse permanently at the starting gate.” “I get it. I hope you get your chance, babe.” She smiled at him. Over the next few weeks, Penny moved more and more of her things into Mark’s apartment. He shoved his stuff into two drawers and gave her three. Tension on the field grew as the date the cuts would be made grew closer. Even Harley started to get snippy. Darvin Sweetwater ragged on Mark at every opportunity, never letting up. Mark could barely control his temper. Harley helped his friend keep his cool, but it wasn’t easy. The day before the owner was coming, Darvin cornered Mark in the shower. “Made up your mind to call in sick tomorrow, Davis?” “Don’t bet on it.” “I have those pictures. Don’t think I won’t send them.” “I don’t give a shit what you do. You can shove ’em, as far as I’m concerned.” “Yeah? See how that pretty little chippie feels when she finds out you ruined her career.” Mark wanted to slap the smug smile off his teammate’s face. “That’s blackmail. Blow it out your ass, Sweetwater.” Darvin’s brow wrinkled. Mark could see he had him worried. Good. Let the bastard sweat. He pushed past him and into the locker room. Mark threw his towel into the dirty towel bin and slipped on his boxers. “Yeah, you’re confident now, but just wait. This gig is mine, and I ain’t sharin’. I need this job, Davis. You’re not gonna take it away from me.” “Who said I even wanted it? I just want to play, Darvin. Get that through your thick skull.” “Go play somewhere else. This team is mine.”

Mark finished dressing and stalked off to the parking lot. He was steamed. When he got home, Penny was there. He paced, yelled, cursed, and turned red in the face. She sat calmly, listening. Finally finished with his rant, he collapsed onto the sofa and turned to her. “And how was your day? Anything new?” Before she could speak, her cell rang. She picked it up. “What? Really?” Silence. Penny smiled and nodded. She kept saying “uh huh,” and Mark began to wonder whether the news was good or bad. She closed her phone and sat back against the cushions, lost in thought. “Well?” Mark asked. She looked up as if she had suddenly noticed he was there. “Oh! Yeah.” “What happened?” “I got a part in a movie. I’m ing the crew on location in two days. The assistant director is emailing me my lines.” She sat, looking dazed, as if she’d been beaned by a softball. “You’re leaving? In two days?” If this is a nightmare, wake up! “I’m employed again. At least for this movie.” “Should we go out to celebrate?” Mark got two beers from the fridge and handed one to her. “I guess so.” “How long will you be gone?” The question popped out of his mouth before he could stop it. “A couple of months. The ing female lead got sick and had to leave. They have to re-shoot her scenes. So, I need to get there right away.” His guts twisted. “Where?” “Spain. Lucky my port’s still good.” Her big baby blues connected with his. I can’t believe this is happening. My life sucks. Penny, don’t leave. “Where do

you want to go for dinner?” “Let’s eat here. We’ve got some leftovers in the fridge. I’d rather spend this time alone with you.” She turned to face him and ran her hand down his rough cheek. He took it and kissed her palm. “Me, too.” Penny inched closer to him until he picked up on it and pulled her into his arms. She rested her head on his chest while he stroked her hair. She climbed into his lap. Mark snaked his long arms around her, his palm flattening against her rump. He squeezed her then moved his hand up to cup her breast. His thumb circled her peak. “Maybe dinner can wait?” she asked. “Perhaps we could have an appetizer in the bedroom?” Mark planted kisses on her neck. “What a good idea.” She got up, and he followed. He closed the door and led her to the bed. Mark ripped his T-shirt over his head and tossed it on the chair. “Now you.” She did the same. He followed with his pants then his boxers. “Let me,” he said, reaching for her zipper. Once he had stripped her jeans off, he stood back to look at her. “You’re gorgeous.” He unhooked her pink bra, and she let it fall. Then, he pushed her matching, lacy panties down to the floor. “There. Now, we’re even.” She eyed him then looked up. “Except you’re erect, and I’m not there yet.” “Allow me to assist you with that, Ms. Thatcher,” he said.

****

Penny’s emotions were bouncing up and down like a gymnast on a trampoline. She wanted to do the movie, earn good money, but the thought of being away

from Mark for so long brought pain. I’m in love with him. He’s too young, and by the time I get back, he’ll be gone. She cursed herself for letting Mark get under her skin and settle into her heart. She had no business being in love, looking for commitment. She needed to plow ahead with her career and save her money so she could finally do what she really wanted. Penny was determined, no matter how long it took, to leave the business that was so much about her appearance and do something she truly loved, creating and deg. On a salary of sixty thousand dollars a year, she’d managed to save ten thousand each year for three years. After taxes, she hadn’t had much, and it hadn’t been easy to save. Now, she wouldn’t have to live on her savings right away. Having work was a relief. But leaving Mark behind raised questions. How long can I expect him to wait for me? Will he go without sex for me? I can’t fly back for weekends from Spain. We’d better make the most of our time together. Penny studied Mark’s form. The heat of his stare warmed her skin. She stepped closer, running her hands up his pecs. The feel of his skin and the hair on his chest thrilled her. She shivered as his big hands slid down her sides and closed over her hips. When she tilted her chin up, he brought his mouth down on hers. He was hungry and demanding in a new way. Crushing her breasts into his chest, he held her, almost too tight, as his tongue demanded hers. Her nipples hardened. He moved his hands up, raking his thumbs across the peaks. She moaned, lifting a leg and hooking it around his waist. He closed his fingers around her thigh and moved them up into her warmth. She gave out a slight gasp. He released her mouth, kissing across her jaw and down her neck to her chest. His fingers stroked her with increasing speed. “Oh, Mark.” Her head fell limp against him as desire flooded her veins. He lifted her, walking the few steps to the bed before easing her down. He loomed over her, all six foot four inches of him covering her. “Love me, Mark. Love me.” “My pleasure,” he muttered, nuzzling her neck. Penny smoothed her hands down his back and rested them on his butt. Mark got to his knees. She closed her fingers around his rock-hard erection. Knowing how much she turned him on excited her. His fingertips glided along her slick wetness. He massaged her with the heel of his hand as he slipped a finger inside

her. She groaned and lifted her hips off the bed. The fire in her raged out of control. She squirmed under his caresses, wanting him, needing him inside her. “Take me, take me, Mark. Make love to me.” Her voice was raspy, desperate. He covered himself quickly and plunged into her. “Oh, God, honey,” he moaned. She gripped his shoulders hard, her eyes closed. Mark lifted her leg, resting it against his chest, and thrust in all the way, burying himself deep inside her. She groaned again and opened her eyes to find him staring at her. Lust and love mixed in his clear blues. She pulled his head down for a kiss as he pumped into her. Penny closed her eyes again, letting her senses carry her away on the magic carpet ride that was loving Mark Davis. Heat intensified, muscles tensed, coiled and ready to spring. “I love you,” he muttered, sweat forming a fine sheen on his back, his breath coming in quick pants. She clamped her lips down on his shoulder. She tasted Mark mixed with sweat. Penny released her tight hold on her emotions. The tension reached the breaking point and pleasure erupted inside her, fanning out to her fingertips. She cried out his name as release poured through her. A soft chuckle greeted her ears. She arched into Mark, her fingers combing his hair back from his forehead. Their eyes connected moments before his closed as an orgasm took him over. He groaned loudly and whispered her name before he slumped against her. He rained soft, gentle kisses on her neck and chest while she raked her nails down his back. He shivered. “I love when you do that,” he said. She grinned. The warmth and closeness swirling around her when she and Mark made love filled her heart. He was like no other man. She reached new heights of sexual satisfaction and love with Mark. I can’t let him go. He sat up then disappeared into the bathroom to discard the condom. Penny stretched her arms above her head. Her gaze swept over her lover as he returned to the bed. His mussed hair, slight scruff, sexy grin, and gorgeous body made her smile. “I love you, Mark Davis,” she said, quietly. “I don’t want to lose you. Will you wait for me?”

“Will you? I don’t want anyone else, but I don’t want to hear how you’ve fallen in love with your leading man.” “That’ll never happen. You’re the best.” Though he smiled, she sensed he didn’t believe her. “Exotic places, playing love scenes...things happen, Penny. I’m young, but I’m not stupid.” “Never said you were. I know all about that. And nights spent in bars, drinking with your teammates, groupies throwing themselves at you. Would it even be possible for you to wait?” He propped himself up. “You think I’m a man-whore? That I have no selfcontrol?” “It’s not that. I know how important sex is to you.” “Like it isn’t to you?” “Not in the same way.” “Oh? Really? Being a bit sexist here, aren’t we?” His brows knitted. “Mark, I don’t want to fight with you. What I’m saying is I don’t want to ask you to be celibate while I’m gone.” “And I’m sure you want the same privilege, right?” “Wrong. I don’t expect I’ll sleep with anyone in Spain. But I want you to be free...” “Why?” “Because I love you. I don’t want to set up a commitment you can’t live with.” “You’re treating me like a child.” Damn! He just doesn’t get it. “Child, athlete...isn’t it the same thing?” Mark launched himself out of bed and began to pace. “That’s insulting. I’m not a

child. I have self-control.” “Mark, I...” “You what? You think I can’t give up sex and wait for you? You’re wrong.” “I didn’t say that.” “Child...athlete...yes, you did.” “I’m sorry. What I’ve been trying to say is that I don’t want to put that on you. I don’t want you to hate me because you feel guilty. I don’t want to know about it, but it’s okay.” He stopped. “Screw around, just don’t tell you?” “Something like that. Maybe not screw around.” “Why don’t you believe that I don’t want to sleep with anyone but you?” He rested his hands on his hips. “I do. While I’m here. But after a couple of weeks, you’ll get...horny...and...” “And run from bar to bar, looking to get laid? Like a tom cat in an alley?” “That’s a little crude.” “What you’re suggesting is a little crude.” Penny pushed to her feet. But as she approached, Mark stepped back. She continued until she’d back him into a corner. She snaked her arms around him and put her cheek to his heart. “I understand men have needs. That’s all.” “And women don’t? You won’t miss me so much you end up in the arms of another man?” “I will miss you that much. I’ll be too tired, too busy, too preoccupied to do anything about it, other than think about you.” He hugged her closer, and his tone softened. “I wish you weren’t going.”

“So do I. But I have to.” “I know. But, I don’t have to like it.” She smiled. “No, you don’t.” Mark yawned. “Early practice tomorrow.” “Can I come?” “Sure. I always do better when you’re there. But I have to get up at six.” “Then, we’d better get to bed.” “Didn’t we already do that?” He snickered. She slapped him playfully on the shoulder. “Food first. Never go to bed on an empty stomach.” “Do you mean go to sleep on an empty stomach?” She cocked an eyebrow at him. He laughed and took her hand. “Come on. Let’s see what’s in the fridge.” Penny pulled out leftover brisket. Mark found potato salad and coleslaw. They made plates of the cold food and chowed down. While Mark washed the dishes, Penny stretched her arms above her head and yawned. “Is that a hint?” he asked. “Yeah. I’m exhausted.” He dried his hands on a dishtowel and followed her into the bedroom. After washing up, they dove into bed. Penny cuddled up to him. God I’m going to miss this. Please, please, be here when I get back. “I love you, Penny. Nothing can destroy that.” Mark folded her into his arms. “I hope you’re right,” she replied. He switched out the light. “It’s a test. If we make it, we’ll be solid.” “Uh huh.”

“We belong together.” “I’ve never loved anyone as much as I love you. I hope you’ll be here when I get back.” “I don’t know where I’ll be then. But I’ll find you, and we’ll be together.” “Hold me like it’s the last time,” she whispered, blinking back tears.

Chapter Eight

Mark worked hard at practice. Having Penny in the stands buoyed up his confidence. He played well, making ninety-five per cent of his es. Darvin shot daggers at him, but they rolled off Mark’s back. He knew he was good, and it was time to get attention. For the first time since he left college, he had a plan. When he’d graduated, he’d wanted a job on a team and was thrilled to be hired by the Nevada Gamblers. He had financial obligations and needed to make a good salary. At this point, he knew he was ready for more. Step one was getting a first-string job. Never had he been so sure of himself. It just felt right. He’d danced around the subject with Meg on the phone, but didn’t reveal his intentions. While he’d put forth his best effort for the owner, he didn’t see his future in Nevada. He didn’t know where his career in football would take him, but the rumor of the scout coming got stronger every week. That’s my chance. I have to find a way to play when he’s here. Mark discussed it with Harley, but rejected Harley’s schemes as too extreme. “Just a small car accident. Minor injuries.” Harley concealed a grin behind his hand. “You’re in outer space, Harley. Hit the showers, man.” “What if he fell in front of a bus?” Mark laughed as he shoved Harley into the stall and turned on the cold water. “This ought to bring you back to reality.” Mark was taking Penny to a nice restaurant for their last dinner before she left. He knew he had to tell her about Darvin’s threat, but it was the last thing he wanted to discuss over wine and candlelight. She met him at his apartment. He’d donned a sports jacket and tie for the occasion. Penny was wearing a low-cut, dark purple, silk dress. The shimmery color set off her golden hair and blue eyes to perfection. He’d never seen her look more beautiful.

They chatted about trivial topics while he drove, avoiding talking about their true feelings. Nerves made Mark sweat, and his hands were clammy. He stopped at the men’s room to wash. Looking in the mirror, he put on a stern face. “Just tell her the truth!” “Yeah, buddy. Then duck,” said a man walking by on his way out. It’s not like that. It’s not my fault. She’ll understand. The champagne he had ordered arrived. He took a hefty sip to bolster his courage. “Penny, I need to tell you something.” The arrival of two jumbo shrimp cocktails interrupted Mark. “I love you, too, babe.” “No, really. This is something else. Not so nice.” He cleared his throat then spit out exactly what Darvin had threatened to do. Penny sat back, wide-eyed and stunned. “Why would he want to hurt me?” “He wants to hurt me, and he doesn’t give a rat’s ass about you being collateral damage.” “What a bad man!” “He’s just desperate. Afraid he’s going to get cut from the team. But he’s doing okay, so there’s no reason to cut him, except maybe money. I’m sure he makes a ton, but the owner isn’t going to dump him for me. Not with this winning season.” “He’s a monster.” “He’s a jerk, an evil jerk.” The waiter removed the empty dishes and brought their main course. “Don’t do what he says, Mark. Please. I don’t care about the pictures. I want you to have your chance.” “Thanks. I wasn’t planning to. I don’t give in to blackmailers.”

“Good. I’ll take my chances.” Relief flooded Mark’s veins. Though he’d never doubted what she’d say, it felt good to hear it from her lips. He lifted his flute. “To you, Penny. Light of my life.” She blushed and met his toast. We’re invincible. That scumbag can’t touch what we have, pictures or no pictures. Mark dug into his steak with enthusiasm. Penny nibbled on her lobster casserole. When the food was gone, they held hands and talked about their dreams of the future. “I know it sounds stupid, but when I was a teen, all I wanted was a stable family and a paid-up house with a white picket fence and a fireplace,” she said. “Where did you live?” “We had a small tract house, mortgaged to the hilt.” I wish I could give you that right now. Someday, maybe someday. “And now? What do you want now?” “I want more—a loving husband, kids, a career as a designer. But it’s funny, there’s a part of me that still wants that house with the white picket fence.” She laughed. “Some dreams never die.” “Did you always want to play football?” “Yeah. My dad and I tossed around a ball when I was little. I grew up throwing and playing. I ed a peewee league as soon as I was old enough. It’s been my life.” “I bet your dad’d be proud to see you now.” She moved her fingers closer to his. “That dirt bag. He took a powder and never ed us again. Fuck him. Even though it’s been years, my mom’s still bitter. Part of her died when he left that day. And I’ve been picking up the slack ever since.” Penny slid her hand over his. “It must have been very hard.”

“Don’t know how I’d have done it all if I didn’t have Meg.” “You’re lucky. I’m an only child.” “Megan is a life-saver.” They split a piece of chocolate lava cake for dessert. On the ride home, Penny rested her fingers on Mark’s thigh and squeezed gently at every red light. He hit the accelerator harder each time. They fairly flew home, ripped each other’s clothes off on their way to the bedroom, and were making love in a heartbeat. The next day at the airport, they whispered tearful goodbyes and promises of fidelity. The young lovers clung to each other in a last embrace at the security line. Penny cried, and Mark’s eyes watered. He stayed until her plane took off then drove home. The apartment seemed empty without her. He wandered around like the last kernel in a bag of popcorn. Early bedtime made it easier to get up for early practice the next morning. But lethargy and depression weighed him down. In the locker room, Darvin took the opportunity to jab Mark with words. “Your little chippie flew the coup, eh? Are we sad today? Awwww, is the widdle boy missing his ho?” “Shut the fuck up, Sweetwater, before I make you shut up.” Fortunately, an assistant coach entered the locker room before the conversation heated up. “Where the fuck have you been, Sweetwater? Coach is having a shit fit out there. You, too, Davis. Get your butts on the field.” The two quarterbacks did as they were told. Mark contained his rage. Work it out on the field, son, work it out on the field. That’s what dad used to say. Mark grumbled to himself for having a good thought about the father who had betrayed him. Still, the advice was right on. Mark focused his anger on running and warming up. His best revenge would be to play brilliantly in front of the owner at the end of the week. He hardened his resolve to focus on his game and not think about Penny.

****

Meg flew in for a long weekend. She arrived the night before the owner tryouts were to take place. Harley ed them for dinner, hitting on Meg in front of Mark. They got into an argument, but Megan refereed, calming them down. “You know, you’re not the only one under the microscope tomorrow,” Harley said. “You’re our star running back. No danger for you.” Mark cut off a piece of steak. “You don’t know that.” “Come on, Harley. You’re not gonna get cut.” “Guys! Can we please talk about something else?” “Like what?” Mark asked. “Like my new haircut?” Megan replied. “It looks great. I’d like to see it close up...without all those clothes in the way,” Harley snickered, his eyes glowing. “Harley!” Megan slapped his shoulder and laughed. “That’s my sister. Watch it!” Mark growled. Meg stayed at Mark’s apartment in the spare bedroom. She arose early and went with him to the practice that would lead to team cuts, ing other family in the special section of the stands. There was silence between Mark and Darvin in the locker room. They were the last to leave. Sweetwater leaned over and whispered, “I sent the pictures to Celebs ’R Us yesterday because I knew you’d show.” “Blow it out your ass, Sweetwater,” Mark said. But his temperature rose. He

took some deep breaths to calm himself. When he got on the field, Mark waved to his sister. She waved back. He ran laps with the others and did warm-ups. One glance and he recognized the owner, sitting in the stands with his young wife and a few friends. Mark sucked in a breath and focused his attention on football. For a young man, he had a remarkable ability to concentrate. Feeling invincible once he was in the zone helped to make him so. His offensive linesmen did their job beautifully, giving him the time he needed to zero in on an open man and make the connection. His ing was outstanding, bullets hitting their target almost every time. Sweetwater looked nervous, bobbling the snap a couple of times and missing twenty per cent of his es. After the tryout, Mark rushed through his shower, anxious to get away from Darvin. He and Harley met Megan outside. “You were outstanding, Lug,” she said, kissing his cheek. Darvin caught up with them. “He was pretty good. Who’s this? Another ho’? Two-timing the chippie?” Mark stepped toward Sweetwater with his fist raised. “She’s my sister.” Harley stepped between them. “Guys, guys. Come on. If Coach sees this, you’ll get another fine.” Both players backed off. After shooting a threatening look at his nemesis, Mark grabbed Meg’s arm and pulled her toward the SUV. “Fine? What fine?” “It’s nothing,” Mark said as he got behind the wheel. “Five big ones. Not nothing to me,” Harley chimed in. Mark shot him a dirty look. “You didn’t tell her?” “No, you big ape! Now, I have to. Geez, can’t a guy have a couple of secrets?” “Not from his twin sister. You were fined five hundred bucks?”

“Five thousand, Meg,” Harley offered. Mark peeled out as Meg shouted, “What the hell?” “It’s a done deal, Meg.” “Give. All the details.” He explained what happened. “Brilliant. Fighting. Over stupid pictures. Men.” The note of disgust in her voice was unmistakable. “It won’t affect you.” “When you’re in the hole, it affects us all. Hey, if you’d have spent that taking an around-the-world cruise, I’d be thrilled. But to lose it fighting? What a waste.” Meg spent the evening with Harley, but came back to Mark’s place to sleep. They had the next day off. He took her sightseeing and out to dinner. “Do you talk to Penny often?” Meg asked, taking a bite of vanilla coconut cake. “We email almost every day. Her schedule is worse than mine. She has to do all the scenes they shot with the actress who got sick. Four, five. Something like that.” “Are you serious about her?” “Are you prying?” He took a forkful of strawberry cheesecake. “Of course.” “Are you serious with Harley?” Meg burst out laughing. “Who could be serious about anything with Harley?” “He’s dedicated to football,” Mark said. “That’s as far as it goes. Harley’s a playboy. He’s fun, but that’s all.”

“You need fun. You’re too serious, Meg.” The waitress refreshed their coffee. “Hey, grad school is no joke. I have some fun. Especially here with you. I like Penny, a lot. She’s good for you. I know you’re just a kid, but I hope you’re serious about her.” “Look who’s talking. Have you forgotten we’re twins? The same age?” “Men mature so much slower.” “Don’t be so superior, Squirt.” “Lug,” she shot back. Mark was sorry to see his sister return to Boston. It was time to get to work. Harley got word that the scout was coming in a couple of weeks. This is my chance. I’ve gotta get out of here. Mark worked hard every day. He showed up early and stayed late. Afterward, he stopped at the corner candy store to pick up a copy of Celebs ’R Us. Each week, he went over every inch of the new issue, looking for Penny’s pictures or mention of them. He let out a breath when he didn’t see her naked body strewn all over its pages. The time difference made communication slow, killing spontaneity. Every evening, he looked forward to the “ding” that told him he had a new email. She wrote to him early in the morning, and he received it eight hours the night before.

Hi, Honey,

How was your tryout? Any word? Wouldn’t it be great to have Darvin kicked off the team? I know, never happen. Spain is beautiful. Makes me miss you more. I want to share all the beautiful places and food with you, but you’re too far away. I’m working hard. Memorizing my lines, trying to focus, when all I can think about is you. Hope you’re well and working hard.

Love,

Penny

He read and re-read every word a dozen times. Her messages put a smile on his face before he climbed into his empty bed alone.

****

Mark believed Celebs ’R Us was ignoring Darvin’s package of Penny’s pictures. By the second week after Darvin had said he had sent the pictures, with nothing appearing in the magazine, Mark relaxed. But he still bought it, planning to read it while he ate dinner alone, waiting for an email from Penny. He picked up a Philly cheese steak sub from the t down the block and hit the button on the elevator. He’d been working hard and was tired and hungry. He opened his sandwich and spread the newsprint publication out on the table. After popping a beer, he sat down and took a bite as he read. The gossip about movie stars seemed endless. The information bored him. Who cares who’s doing what in their private lives? Who cares who wants to have sex with men or women or both? Not me. Then, his eyes stopped at a headline. A chill zinged through his body.

Guess Who Posed for Nudie Pics?

We can’t say her name, but she used to be on Las Vegas Beat. Did she get fired

for posing nude? Or did she leave to do porno flicks? Wish we could print her hot pics, but alas, we don’t have the rights. This steamy, blonde tootsie looks even better topless.

Shit! Almost as bad as if the pictures were reprinted. It’s obvious they’re talking about Penny. Fuck! Then, he heard the ding on his computer. Penny. Did she already know, or would he have to tell her? Damn. I wish this would go away. Enough is enough. He read her short message then crafted his reply.

Hey, Baby,

Glad you’re doing okay. Any word on when you can come home?

I miss you like crazy. I’ve been working hard. I’m too tired to go out with Harley, though someone needs to keep him on a leash. Did you see Celebs ’R Us today? No pictures, but there’s a piece about them. Look under “Hot Flashes.” I’m sorry, honey. Hope there’s no fallout from this. Love you and miss you every day.

Mark

There was another ding right after he sent his response.

Shit! I didn’t think he sent them. Damn. This is going to bite me in the ass. You can’t do regular films and be porno, too. Pray it dies down.

Love you and miss you, too,

Penny

Mark got into bed and tried to sleep. He was exhausted, but his mind wouldn’t shut off. In the morning, he had to drag himself out of bed. He wanted to kill Darvin Sweetwater, but took his anger out on the track and the barbells. That scout’s coming. I need to build some muscle. Harley cornered him in the parking lot. Mark turned hostile eyes to his friend. “Buddy, don’t look at me like that. I didn’t send those pictures.” Harley held up his hands. “What do you want? I’m not exactly in the mood to go out drinking tonight.” “That’s okay. Just wanted to tell you not to worry. You’ll have your chance. When the scout is here, you’ll be playing, not Sweetwater. So, be prepared.” “What makes you so sure?” “Trust me. Stop asking questions. The less you know, the better. Go home. Get a good night’s sleep, and get in shape. This is your big chance, buddy. Take it.” Harley clapped him on the back then got in his SUV and drove away. Mark watched his car leave the lot and wondered, What the fuck? He’s up to something. Just don’t get arrested, Harley.

****

Penny closed her computer and let the bad news sink in. Crap. Maybe no one will know it’s me. Clinging to that hope, she threw on sweats and made her way to makeup. She swore she was getting funny looks from some of the crew. Don’t

be paranoid. They can’t know yet. Maybe online? Celebs ’R Us does have an online subscription. Penny’s stomach knotted. Continue as if no one knows. Assume the best. Move on. Penny forced thoughts about the nude pictures out of her mind, focusing on the scene she was shooting. They did thirty takes, and she was exhausted by the end. Plopping down in a director’s chair near the buffet on the craft table, she noticed a few of the men looking at her askance. They read the article, and now they’re staring at my chest, imagining God knows what. She squirmed under the leering looks thrown her way. The assistant director approached her. “Nice work today, Penny. We’re almost caught up.” “Thanks, Alex.” “Hey, I read an article about you.” “Yeah?” Crap. Here it comes. She fidgeted with a tissue. “About some topless pictures?” “What about it?” Please don’t make a at me, Alex. I like you. “Is it true?” He took his glasses off and polished them on his shirtsleeve. “Why do you want to know?” “Well, just that...uh...that kind of publicity. Well, this is a family picture.” “I understand. It’s true. They were taken a long time ago. It was a special situation. I didn’t do it voluntarily, or to vamp my career or anything. I did it under duress.” “Oh, okay. I didn’t want to ask, but the producer made me.” She rested her hand on his forearm. “It’s all right. I get it.” “I’ll tell him it’s a mistake.”

“Don’t lie for me. Tell him to ask me himself. I’ll tell him the truth. I’m sure this will blow over in a couple of days. Long before this film comes out.” “Probably right. Okay. I’ll tell him. Thanks for being honest. Sorry you have to live through this.” “Yeah? You and me both.” She smiled. At least he was nice. She packed up her stuff and made her way back to the hotel. The next day, she reported to the set early and a member of the crew pulled her aside. “Did you really pose nude?” “That’s none of your business.” “Aw, come on. You can tell me.” He grabbed her arm. She jerked away. “Get out of my way, Earl.” “We’re friends, right?” “I said, none of your business. Now, let me .” “Okay, okay, don’t get so touchy. Show me. Come on.” He was staring at her breasts. Penny lashed out, shoving him in the shoulder. “I said, get outta my way!” She caught him off guard, and he went reeling back, into a flat. He bounced off and came at her. Seizing her forearm, he twisted it until she cried out. “Don’t ever do that again, you little whore!” She smelled whiskey on his breath. “Don’t speak to me like that. You’re drunk! Let go! You’re hurting me.” “I’ll do more than that if you open your mouth. Or shove me again. Bet your tits aren’t so great, after all.” He spat on the floor and moved away. Penny was shaking. “Wait until I tell Alex.” Earl turned on his heel and was pushing his nose into her face within two

seconds. “Keep your big yap shut, ya hear? Or, I’ll mess you up. Mess you up good.” He raised a fist, his eyes wild with drink. “What’s going on here?” Alex said, strolling over to Penny. Earl backed away immediately. Penny’s eyes were wide, and she was trembling. “Nothing, nothing. Ms. Thatcher dropped her pen. I was picking it up, is all.” “He’s drunk, Alex. And he was threatening me.” Alex motioned to the crewmember. “Earl, come here, will you? Let’s talk.” Earl shot her an evil look and walked off in Alex’s custody. As soon as Earl was far away, Penny broke down. This wouldn’t happen if you were here, Mark. I need you so much. Things on the set died down within a day or two. Penny was happy to become old news. Apparently, the same wasn’t true in Los Angeles. When she had time to check her cell, Penny had ten messages from Keith Peters. There was no free time to talk to Keith while she was on the set, so she had to wait until she returned to the hotel room. Her hand shook as the phone dialed his number. “Penny? It’s about time! Where have you been?” “On the set. I’m doing a movie. ?” She didn’t like his tone. “Oh, yeah. Right. Have you seen Celebs ’R Us?” “I saw it online. I’m in Spain. Don’t think they sell it here.” She stretched out on the bed. “So, you saw the bit about you and those damn pictures?” “What’s your point?” “I’ve been getting calls from porn filmmakers, asking about you.” “Oh, God, no!” Her hand covered her mouth.

“Oh, yeah.” “Those were taken five years ago. What are you telling them?” “What do you want me to tell them? Are you game for doing porn flicks?” “How can you even ask that, Keith? I’m a serious actress. I’d never do porn!” “Most serious actresses would never have nude photos taken.” “It was under duress. I did it to keep my dad out of jail.” Penny paced. “Water under the bridge. No one cares why you did it. You did it. And they’re out there, forever in cyberspace.” A wave of nausea hit Penny. “Just tell them ‘no,’ Keith,” she said in a low tone, struggling to keep her composure. “Okay. But don’t count on getting too many legit offers, now. I wish you had told me about this before.” “What would you have done?” “Probably dropped you as a client.” Penny’s stomach knotted. “And now?” “I’m stuck with you. At least until our contract runs out.” “Your loyalty is touching,” she said, tears biting at the back of her eyes. “This is business, Penny. Nothing personal. I like you. But it’s about money.” “I get it. No more movies for me?” “I don’t know. Never like to predict, but I wouldn’t hold my breath. Sure as hell not family movies. Let me know if you change your mind about porn flicks.” “I won’t.” She closed her cell. Tears burst through. Mark, I need you so much. She wanted to curl into his

embrace and hear him tell her everything would be all right. She sent him an email, detailing her conversation with her agent. Then, she crawled into bed and turned out the lights. The next evening, when she returned to the hotel, dejected and exhausted, she was heartened to find a dozen red roses waiting for her. The card read—

To the world’s best actress, and the light of my life. Love, Mark

The flowers and note decided something she’d been kicking around for weeks. The decision made her smile. Sleep came quickly to a mind at ease.

Chapter Nine

One week later. Las Vegas. Mark woke up refreshed after going to bed early the night before. Today was the day the scout was coming. Although he often doubted Harley’s good sense, he believed his friend when he assured him that he’d be the quarterback today. He didn’t want to know what the scheme was, he only prayed that it worked. He did some calisthenics before his shower. Then, out to breakfast at the place he often went with Penny. Wish she were here. He chowed down a huge meal, heavy on the protein, while he read the morning paper. He was confident, if his game went well, he’d stand a good chance of getting an offer. No one had been able to find out which team had sent their agent. Mark didn’t care. He wanted to leave the Gamblers and all the bad karma behind, even if it meant separating from his best friend, Harley Brennan. He drove to the stadium, singing along with the radio. He took his time dressing, wondering how Penny was getting along after her conversation with Keith Peters and the announcement in Celebs ’R Us. His heart had ached when he had read her email. He had cursed about not being there for her when she needed him. Frustration had sent his temper through the roof. That’s when he had gotten the idea for the flowers. He smiled, ing her response. She had called him right away. Hearing her voice had warmed him. They talked for half an hour. He grinned at the memory, keeping her close to his heart. But today was all about football. The locker room was abuzz with questions and rumors about the scout. “I hear he’s from L.A.” the tight end said. “Nah, Miami.” “You’re both wrong. He’s definitely from Chicago.” Harley had arrived early. He

grinned at Mark. Darvin strutted in. “This scout rumor is crap. I don’t give a damn. Just signed a new, three-year contract with the Gamblers. You can go fuck your scout.” Mark ignored him. “Hey, Davis. Looks like you’re not taking over the Gamblers, and since I’m playing today, no chance with the scout either. You’re my bitch, baby.” Mark shot an angry look at Sweetwater, but didn’t speak. Harley approached Darvin. “Congratulations. Have a Gatorade, on me. Got cherry, your favorite.” He said. “No way!” An evil grin stretched Sweetwater’s lips. “You think I trust you not to put something in there so I can’t play? I’m not stupid, Harley, you asshole.” Harley looked crestfallen. Mark was disgusted. Is that what he planned to do? How lame. “I’ve got my own, right here.” Darvin grabbed his own brand of sports drink. “Damn! Guess I can’t fool you, can I?” Darvin chugged the entire contents. Mark donned his jersey and picked up his helmet. Sweetwater shot him the finger before he headed to the field. Mark pulled Harley aside. “How idiotic was that? That was your master plan? Drugging Sweetwater? Brilliant, Harley.” His sarcasm didn’t miss its mark. The corners of Harley’s mouth turned down in a frown. “You think I’m that dumb?” “Looks that way.” “Just wait.” A mischievous smirk flashed across Harley’s face. The two quarterbacks were called to the center for the coin toss. The Pennsylvania Panthers won and elected to kick off. Mark watched from the sidelines. Suddenly, Darvin Sweetwater bent over, grabbed his guts, and ran off

the gridiron. Mark’s head snapped around, and his gaze connected with Harley’s. “Laxative in his drink,” he whispered to his friend. Mark’s eyes got wide. “You didn’t?” “I did. His real drink.” Harley popped open the Gatorade he’d offered to Sweetwater and took a healthy swig. Mark burst out laughing. “Davis, you’re up,” the coach called. Mark stood up, and ran onto the field. His pulse kicked up, and adrenalin flowed in his veins. He scanned the line of men who’d be trying to take him down. In the huddle, his center gave him a thumbs up. “This is your day, Davis, don’t fuck it up,” his guard said. When they broke, Mark glanced at the stands, out of habit more than anything else. His eye was caught by a hand waving wildly. OMG! It’s Penny! He stopped for a second, until the center whispered loudly, “Davis, delay of game!” That snapped his attention back to football. Energy flowed through him. He called the signals and took the snap. His blockers protected him, giving Mark the time he needed to find his man downfield. Harley was covered, but Hank Cummins, a running back, was clear. Mark fired off a , and Hank plucked it out of the air. He made five more yards before being taken down. A first down on the first play. The fans went wild. Another huddle and a hand-off to Harley, who made five yards through the middle. Slowly, the team advanced down the field, with Mark calling the shots. Then, it was time for the hot dog play. Hank was covered this time, but Harley was down on the Panther’s ten-yard line. Mark rifled off a long right at his buddy, who made the catch easily. Two more plays and then Mark got the chance he’d been waiting for. Running backs were covered, wide receivers were covered, tackles and guards were holding the line. Mark found a hole and sneaked through to score the touchdown himself! This was his first time scoring on his own in the pros. He leaped up. A glance at the stands saw Penny out of her seat, cheering and jumping up and down.

Mark left the field as the defensive team took their places. He snapped off his chin guard, removed his helmet, gulped some water, and grinned. “Sweetwater’s got some intestinal thing, Davis. Looks like this is gonna be your game,” the assistant coach said. Mark nodded, trying to keep the smile off his face. Harley sat next to him. Mark covered his mouth with his hand. “I owe you big time.” “Yeah, you do. You can thank me later. But then, you introduced me to your sister. She’s smokin’. Guess this is payback.” “Shut up, Harley.” Mark pushed to his feet and moved closer to the line, watching the Panthers run through the Gamblers defense. The Coach was hollering instructions at the team and turning red in the face when the Panthers scored a touchdown. Shit! The ground I gained is lost. Mark turned to glance at Penny, who threw him a kiss. Strength and focus returned as he trotted out on the field to begin another Gambler rally. By halftime, the score was seventeen fourteen, with the Gamblers ahead. In the locker room, Darvin Sweetwater grabbed Mark’s shirt. “I don’t know how you did this, but I’ll get you for it.” “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Mark pushed his teammate’s hands away and sucked down water. The team gathered around for a pep talk. Darvin was still grumbling to Mark. “Shut up, Sweetwater. Listen up,” the Coach snapped. Then he direct his focus on Mark. The Coach changed some plays, and Mark nodded in agreement. They took the field. “I’ll be back before the second half is over.” “Good luck with that,” Harley said, struggling to keep a straight face. “It was you!” Harley eluded Darvin’s grasp and ran back out onto the field. “He’s hunting your ass,” Mark whispered to his friend.

“Aw, he had it coming. Bastard. You deserved the break. Gotta kill the second half.” “I know. Penny’s here.” “Yeah? All the way from Spain?” Mark nodded. “Then no excuses, asshole. Get out there and kill it.” The Gamblers kicked off to the Panthers to start the second half. The Nevada team’s defense picked up their game and anticipated a few Panther plays, forcing the visiting team to punt. Mark and Harley took the field again. This time, they were unstoppable. Hank and Harley both scored again. The Panthers bounced back with another touchdown and a field goal when Hank fumbled the ball. With a score of thirtyone to twenty-four, the Panthers regained possession when the punt return was fumbled. Mark’s nerves were on edge. One touchdown and an extra point, and it’s a tie game. He looked at Penny, who gave him a thumb’s up. I have to win this. The Panthers lost the ball on the fourth down. Mark took command. With three minutes left, this looked like their only chance to score again and put away the game. Mark played cautiously, running the ball to wind down the clock. With little time left, the Panthers would never be able to recover. But he had to worry about fumbles. His running backs handled themselves well, finding holes in the line and making progress. The Panther’s got wise and shifted their defense, making it harder to find a place to break through. Mark had no choice but to . He faked to Hank while Harley ran downfield. Hank drew the defense, leaving Harley wide open. Mark shot a bullet with perfect aim. Harley was there and made the catch easily, running the last ten yards for a touchdown. The fans went crazy—the cheering was deafening. Harley bumped chests with Mark. The Panthers had the ball with a minute left on the clock. Mark went to the sidelines, confident they wouldn’t be able to score twice in the time remaining. He let out a big breath, turned to Penny, and raised a hand. I can’t believe she’s

here. The clouds surrounding his life lifted and hope entered Mark’s heart for the first time in weeks. Darvin Sweetwater had recovered and returned to the sidelines. Mark gave him a wide berth, and the first-stringer was smart enough not to start anything in front of the coach. A smile of satisfaction spread Mark’s lips. I did my best. If there’s a scout here, I had my chance. Having a shot was all he wanted. If he wasn’t good enough to make it, so be it. His heartbeat slowed as relief crept through him. Now, to be with Penny again. The clock ran out. The Nevada Gamblers won, thirty-eight to twenty-seven. Harley and Mark ran off the field together. Mark jumped in the shower as quick as he could to avoid Sweetwater. But Darvin waited for him in the locker room. “You low down, dirty, fucking bastard,” he began. “Darvin. Cool it,” Hank said. “Yeah. Leave the kid alone. He got his shot. He did well. Just let it go,” one of the guards chimed in. Sweetwater’s eyes were burning with anger. “You’ve got your contract, what the hell are you bitching about?” Harley said. “Mark had his turn. No skin off your nose. Or should I say, your ass?” Some of Mark’s buddies congratulated him. The Coach ambled into the room. “Nice going, Davis. Couple of people outside for you.” “That babe with the great tits is outside? This, I gotta see,” Hank said, pulling on his jeans and T-shirt quickly. Several men followed him. “Hey! Don’t embarrass her. For God’s sake! Wait! Come on, guys.” Six teammates barreled through the door before Mark. The last sound he heard, echoing through the locker room, was the laughter of Darvin Sweetwater.

****

Mark was lost behind the sea of players gawking at Penny. She stood quietly, smiling at each of them. A few asked for her autograph. He saw them staring at her chest. The low cut top revealed a nice view of cleavage while it hugged her breasts. Mark knew what was going through the dirty minds of the men. He pushed his way through. “Side show is over, go on,” he said, slinging an arm around her. He enclosed her in his embrace and kissed her ionately, amid the hoots, hollers, and applause of his buddies. Warmth crept through his body. His pulse kicked up while his heart lightened. Penny’s back. “How long are you staying?” “My plane leaves at midnight. I just came for the game. Meg told me you’d definitely be playing. She was right.” “Harley. Harley told her. Tonight? You have to leave tonight? Damn. You really came just for the game, didn’t you?” “Isn’t that what I just said?” She placed her hands on her hips. “You’re the best,” He said, kissing her again. After they broke, he turned his back on the men shuffling their way to their vehicles, returning to their lives. A man cleared his throat. “I told you guys...” Mark began, but stopped as he faced a stranger. The gentleman was about five ten, with graying hair. “Mark Davis?” “That’s right.” “I’m Jim Dunston, Scout for The Delaware Demons,” he said, extending his hand. Mark gulped. His palms began to sweat, and his grip on Penny’s arm tightened. “What can I do for you, sir?” “Is there someplace we can talk?” “I know a great burger place.”

“Fine. I never eat at a game. Too busy. I’m starved.” Dunston followed Mark and Penny to the burger t. They sat in a booth facing him. “We’re building a brand new team, looking for young talent to grow with us. We’ve been following you since college. Quite a record.” Dunston took a sip of his coffee. “I think you’ve got the stuff. You’re good, Davis. And with us, you could be great. We want you as our starting quarterback. Interested?” He narrowed his eyes. “I am, Mr. Dunston. You bet I am.” “Do you have a manager? Tell him to give me a call.” Jim tossed his card on the table. “It’s a she. I will.” “We’ll talk . You willing to leave the Gamblers?” “Yes. Definitely ready to move up.” Mark nodded. “I feel you are, too. Assuming we can agree on , welcome to Delaware,” Jim said, extending his hand. Mark grinned from ear to ear. Penny sat quietly, watching. “Here’s what we propose,” Dunston said, handing Mark an envelope with folded paper inside. “Let her look it over. Call me by the end of next week. Don’t wait. We’re seeing other players. Frankly, you’re my first choice.” “Thank you, Mr. Dunston.” “Jim. Mighty fine job today.” “Thank you.” Mark beamed under the man’s praise. Dad, where are you when I need you? He forced thoughts of his father from his brain. Meg will be thrilled. Is Penny? Can we get married? Her career is wrecked. Maybe she’ll come with me. He glanced at the beautiful woman at his side and smiled.

“You’ll find living in Delaware is extremely pleasant and very reasonable. You can get a huge house for less than three hundred grand. Fine schools, too.” “I’m sure I’ll love it there. Thank you for the vote of confidence.” They finished their meal. Jim Dunston picked up the check. They parted with Mark’s promise to get back to him quickly. Mark drove Penny to the apartment. He didn’t know which he wanted to do first, make love to her, or read the offer from Dunston. “Open it, open it!” she squealed, making his decision easier. He unfolded the paper and read the . When he got to the dollar amount, he sank down slowly on the sofa. “Holy, Jesus.” “What? What?” “Oh. My. God.” He stared at the contract in disbelief. I’m dreaming. “What! Tell me,” she said, tugging on his arm. “A million and a half salary and twenty-five grand g bonus.” Am I dreaming? I’m on my way. Penny’s hands flew to cup her mouth. Her eyes got wide. “Congratulations! Your dream has come true. I’m proud of you.” Not all of my dream. Mark’s pulse went into overdrive. He paced, trying to decide what to do next. Call Meg, shout out the window, or make love to Penny? Damn! It’s already seven o’clock! Mark pulled Penny to him and kissed her. “No talk. It’s been forever. Let’s make love.” He backed her through the doorway into the bedroom and kicked the door shut. On the way to the airport, he realized their time to talk was evaporating. “How much longer do you have to be in Spain?” “I don’t know. At least a couple of weeks. Then some sound work in L.A.” “Really? I’m going to take the offer from Delaware. It’s my ticket out of here and into the limelight. I’m ready.”

“You are. I’m so thrilled for you!” “I want you to come with me.” Penny stared out the window at the lights of Las Vegas. “I don’t know, Mark. Don’t know where I’ll be.” “Will you think about it?” “Of course.” “I love you, as much now as when you left. Maybe even more.” She placed her hand on his arm. “I love you, too. But my life is in turmoil, right now. Let me figure it out first. Can you wait?” “I’ve waited this long. Of course, I’ll wait.” Another tearful goodbye at the airport tugged at Mark’s heart. He feared for Penny, returning to the set where she may not be safe. As he stood, waiting for her plane to take off, he wondered about her. Once the movie is finished, where will she go? What’s her next move? Will she come to Delaware with me? I didn’t offer marriage. It didn’t seem like the right time. As soon as he got in the car, he knew what he needed to do. Meg. Gotta talk to Meg. “But I’ve never negotiated a contract, much less a sports contract.” “You’re a businesswoman. What’s the difference? You know finance. It’s your major.” “Mark, I’m not qualified.” “I don’t know anyone. Hell, I wouldn’t trust anyone else. Besides, you’re smarter than most people. Please, Meg.” “I don’t want to screw it up for you.” “You won’t. I’ll fax it through to you.” “Maybe one of my professors can help.”

“I knew you’d figure it out. This is our ticket, Meg. We’ll finally have enough money, and I’ll be doing what I’m meant to do.” “I’m so proud of you, Lug. Way to go.” “Thanks. Now, we have to get Penny to move to Delaware with me.” “Are you sure?” “What do you think? Get your ass out here. You can help me pack up.” “Let’s wait until the contract is signed.”

****

Penny landed in Madrid tired and cranky. All she wanted to do was go back to Mark. She dragged herself to the set and fell asleep in a chair. The crewmember who had threatened her had not shown his face for several days. She wondered if he had been fired. The fallout from the nude photos was more than she had ever imagined. Awash in regret, she prayed to sink into the background and have it all forgotten. But that was not to be. Memorizing her lines and shooting her scenes took up all her time. Brief breaks were spent thinking about Mark and the Delaware Demons. Though he had asked her to go with him, he had never mentioned marriage. How can I move across the country without a commitment? What about my career? I’m not ready to go to school. I don’t have the money, yet. Worry plagued Penny. Being alone didn’t help. While she tried getting close to the other actors in the movie, everyone had already formed friendships and alliances long before she had arrived. She was the odd one out. Her emails to Mark got longer. While he replied faithfully every day, he still didn’t mention marriage. She began to wonder if what they’d had was something she had imagined. Is he just out for an easy companion? Maybe he’s simply too young. Penny was included in the Thanksgiving dinner given by the film company for

the cast and crew. She didn’t care if she worked through the holiday, after all, she had nowhere to go anyway. The more she worked, the sooner she could return to Las Vegas and the arms of her lover. Mark wrote about the contract negotiations and when they finally had reached agreement on all sides. As the football season wound down, he talked more and more about Delaware. He was anxious to move there, find a place to live, and settle in. He pressed her for her plans, but she dodged his questions, still uncertain over what her future would hold. Is acting over for me? Keith called her every day. “I’ve got a great part for you. ing, but pays thirty-five percent more than you’re making now.” Penny narrowed her eyes. “Why?” “There’s a couple of topless scenes. Nothing prolonged or anything.” “No!” She hung up the phone. He kept calling. According to Keith, every director who wanted a topless scene in his movie was begging for her. “You must have a great rack, Penny, because I’m getting a ton of calls. Not that I know firsthand. Can you send me the link to the pictures online?” “I don’t have a link. Are they online? Oh, my God. I don’t want to know. And I’m not interested in doing any topless scenes for any director, no matter how famous or infamous.” She needed Mark.

Hi, Mark,

If I get one more call from Keith for a topless part in a movie, I’ll scream! Damn him. He knows I won’t do it, but he keeps asking, hoping he’ll wear me down.

The topless parts pay a lot, more. More money for him. That’s why he keeps bugging me.

Before you ask, I’ve turned them all down. But he won’t listen. It’s driving me crazy. Wish you were here. I could use a hug. A lot of hugs.

Love,

Penny

Mark answered right away.

Hi, Honey,

Give me Keith’s address, and I’ll take him out. I’ll pound some sense into him. Missing you. Meg is going to help me pack. I’m planning to go to Delaware as soon as the season is over. I doubt we’ll be Super Bowl contenders this year, so that should be sooner rather than later. You haven’t told me when you’re coming home.

I’ll be there to pick you up. I hope it’s soon.

Love,

Mark

By the beginning of December, Penny was finished with her movie. She packed up as fast as she could and hopped a plane back to Las Vegas. Connections, delays due to weather, and cancelled flights kept her traveling all day. She texted Mark all the changes. She received a text from Keith while she was boarding for the last leg of her trip.

Got you some publicity. Reporters will be at the airport. Keith

Chapter Ten

Penny made a face. The last thing she needed was a slew of questions from nosy, obnoxious reporters trying to dig up dirt. It was too late to tell Mark not to meet the plane and save him the grief. Guess he’ll have to deal with it. Hope he doesn’t take a swing at a reporter. The thought of seeing Mark lightened her mood as they came in for a landing. Just minutes and I’ll be wrapped in his arms. Can’t wait. Time seemed to grind to a halt as she watched the slow motion ticking of the hands on her watch. She brushed her hair and reapplied lipstick. Then, down the gangway into the terminal. Flashbulbs started popping the second she entered. Blinded by them, she didn’t see Mark at first. “Penny! Over here!” She shielded her eyes with her hand and searched until she saw his wide shoulders looming above the other men. She smiled and chuckled to herself how wonderful it was that he was so tall. A reporter approached her. “Are you giving up legit acting for porno films?” “What? No.” She pushed past him only to be accosted by another one blocking her way to Mark. “Are you going topless in your next movie?” “No. Please, get out of my way.” Penny tried to shoulder her way past him with no success. The man didn’t budge. He scribbled for a second then opened his mouth for another question. But a long arm and large hand reached between the journalist and Penny. It fastened itself on her arm and pulled her through the crowd. Mark. She looked up, beaming at his handsome face. Within a second, she was tucked into his embrace. “Hi, baby,” he muttered as he lowered his mouth to hers. Penny couldn’t tell if the flashing lights were from cameras or stars bursting inside her head. His kiss sucked her breath from her lungs. She clung to him with every ounce of strength she had. The flashes kept coming. When they broke, Mark stroked her hair and

smiled into her eyes. Within two seconds, the news hounds were poking into their relationship. “Are you two engaged?” “How do you feel about your fiancée posing nude? “Do you have framed copies of those pictures?” “Rumors say you’re going to Delaware, Mark. Are you taking Penny with you?” “Are you living together?” “How much did Delaware give you?” “What’s your next film, Penny? Any nudity in it?” Mark looked up, temporarily dazed by all the noise and bright lights. Silently, he grasped Penny’s hand and steered her toward the baggage claim area. While they waited for her luggage, reporters continued to fire nosy, nasty questions at the pair and take pictures. They alternated—sometimes Penny denied a claim or said “no comment,” and other times, Mark did. When he had her large suitcase, he toted it like it only weighed two pounds and shouldered his way through the crowd like one of his teammates pushed through the line on the gridiron. Penny followed right behind, her hands on his waist. Mark fended off the nosy reporters long enough to get her safely stowed in his car. She leaned back and closed her eyes. “What the hell was that? A cockroach convention?” Mark blew out a breath as he maneuvered them onto the highway. “Keith called them. Said it would be good publicity for the film. No one asked me a thing about the movie. Only about those damn pictures. I wish I’d never done them.” “Geez, no one wants to let you forget, do they?” “Nope. How are you?”

They chatted until Mark pulled into the lot behind his building. She turned to look at him, warmth flowing through her body. He’s actually here. She eased herself closer, snuggling into his shoulder. He pulled her in for a giant hug. “Don’t let go, Mark. Don’t ever let go,” she whispered, closing her eyes. His scent brought a smile to her lips. God, I missed this so much. His lips grazed her hair, and she kissed his chest. His closeness, his strength, buoyed Penny. Energy began to flow through her again. Circling around to the front door, they stopped as a taxi pulled up next to them. The door opened. “A reporter?” Mark mumbled. “One more flashbulb, and I’ll punch this guy’s lights out.” Penny turned to look at the man getting out of the cab behind them. “Dad?”

****

Mark’s head snapped up. “What?” “Dad? Is that you?” “Penny, my dear. How are you? I’ve had a devil of a time finding you.” A slim man with steel gray hair turning white at the temples approached. He had Penny’s blue eyes, but that’s where the resemblance ended. His face was lined and puffy. Medium height, he wore clothes that were too big for him. His camelcolored corduroy jacket was worn at the elbows. His shirt collar had a little fray in it, and the soles of his shoes were worn down. Mark wanted to feel sorry for the guy, but he was the cause of all the trouble between Penny and him. All Mark could summon up was disgust for the father who had sucked the life out of his own daughter and forced her to have those pictures taken. “Who’s this, Penny? Please, introduce us.”

“Mark Davis, this is Irwin Wilson, my father.” Mark took Irwin’s hand and shook it briefly. Afterward, the quarterback had the overwhelming desire to wipe his fingers on his pants. He resisted. “What are you doing here? How did you find me? I changed my last name to get away from you.” Penny inched closer to Mark, who slung his arm around her shoulder. “So, this is your young man, eh? Quite a handsome fellow. Tall, too.” “What do you want, Dad.” Penny shifted her weight. “Is there somewhere we can talk?” “There’s a diner a few doors down,” Mark said. “But then you’ll have to carry this heavy suitcase. Penny, you need to learn to travel light, my dear.” “No problem.” Mark picked up the bag and took Penny’s hand. Irwin followed along behind. Once they were seated, Penny ordered a small salad, Mark a beer, and Irwin a steak dinner. “You’re looking well, Penny, darling.” “What do you want?” “A little rough around the edges, aren’t you? Didn’t I teach you to be more polite than that?” Mark could hardly contain his temper. He stared daggers at Irwin, who appeared to be oblivious to the disapproval. “How did you find me?” “Ah, you’re newsworthy these days, my darling. Those pictures...” He shook his head. “Never should have done that. Really. Wrecked your reputation.” Penny placed her hand on Mark’s forearm, stopping him from punching her

father. “You know all about those pictures and why I had them taken. So, tell me what you want, now. Let’s get this over with. I don’t want to waste my time listening to lies from you.” “Ouch! Is that any way to talk to your loving father? I bounced you on my knee, and we sang Raffi songs together. Let’s see if I can that one...the one about the whale?” Water clouded Penny’s eyes. “Stop!” she yelled at him, pushing the heels of her hands into her eyes to keep tears from falling. “Okay, okay. Don’t cry, baby girl.” Irwin held up his hands. “Just tell me, okay?” She sniffled, fishing a tissue out of her purse. “I’ve found a wonderful new rehab...” “Again?” “This one will work. Guaranteed.” “That’s what you said last time. And the time before. And the time before that.” “It pains me to it it, but I was wrong before. This is it.” “How much?” Penny dropped her hands and stared directly into her father’s eyes. “Prices are a little higher. It’s five years later...you know how these things are.” “How much?” Penny screamed. The clink of glasses, knives, and forks of the other diner patrons stopped. Mark folded his hands over hers. “How much?” she asked again, in a tightly controlled voice. “Twenty-five thousand. But this will be the last time. I promise you.” “You said that last time. Like your promises are worth anything.” “This time, I mean it. You have it. I know you do. You’ve been saving for

school, haven’t you? You’re young. You can go to school anytime. This is life and death.” “Life and death?” Penny cocked an eyebrow. “The doctor told me if I don’t give up drinking, I’ll be dead in six months.” “Like I almost believe you.” “Do you have it?” He raised his eyebrows in expectation. “You know I do. That’ll almost wipe me out.” “You can make it back. You’re so gorgeous. You’ll get another acting job.” He chewed on a piece of baked potato. “Not after those pictures have been discovered. My career is in the dumper.” He patted her hand. “You’re a survivor. Always have been. I’ve always ired that about you. Do you know...Mark, was it? Do you know that when she was only fourteen, she got a job? Yeah, lied about her age, went out and got a job in a diner, washing dishes. She graduated to waiting tables. And she made a pretty penny, too." Irwin returned to cutting up his steak. Mark’s skin turned an angry red. He wanted to beat this man to a pulp. His control was slipping. “You’re disgusting. You make me sick. Living off your daughter. You’re the lowest form of life on Earth,” Mark said in a low growl. Penny shot him a loving look. “How dare you talk to me that way? You’re banging my daughter. Think I don’t know what goes on between you two? Rutting like two junkyard dogs. Can’t wait to get your hands on her, can you? Or your dick?” Mark reached over and fisted Irwin’s shirt in one hand. “For two cents, I’d send you to Hell right now. Go ahead. Keep talking.” Fear flashed across Irwin’s face. Penny pulled on Mark’s sleeve, and he let go. He faced her. “Go upstairs. I’ll bring the suitcase. Let me settle a few things with your father.” “Mark, please. Your throwing hand. Don’t do anything rash.”

“Throwing hand! Aha! Now I know why I recognized you! You’re Mark Davis, brand spanking new quarterback for that new team in the East somewhere.” Mark glared at him before he turned to Penny. “Go on, honey. I’ll take care of this.” “Are you sure?” “I’m sure.” “Don’t leave me here. Who knows what he’ll do to me.” Irwin shrank back against his seat. Mark saw relief on Penny’s face as she slid out of the booth and left the restaurant without a word to her father. Irwin turned frightened eyes to Mark. He reached into his breast pocket and pulled out a checkbook. “Here’s the deal. Take it, or leave it. I’m going to write you a check for fifteen thousand dollars. Not twenty-five, because I don’t believe you.” “I have proof, a brochure right here.” “Shut the fuck up. I’ll tell you when you can talk, you fucking piece of shit.” Irwin clamped his lips together. “Like I said. I’m going to write you a check for fifteen grand. You’re going to take it. And you’re never going to speak to, or try to , your daughter again.” Mark was writing numbers on the check as he spoke. “Hear me?” “But what about on holidays and my birthday?” Mark slammed his big palm down on the table, hard. “I said never, and I mean never. You have seen her for the last time. If you choose to break this deal, you will face the consequences. First, I’ll beat the shit out of you and tell the police you were trying to break into my house. Second, Penny will file a restraining order against you.” “But, what if...” “No buts. No what ifs. If I see you, even just see you again, you will be

hospitalized.” “Are you threatening me?” Irwin stuck out his chin. “Most definitely. I am threatening you. Make no mistake. And this isn’t an idle threat.” “Can’t you make it twenty?” “No. It’s written. Take it, or I’ll call the police right now and make up a story.” “They’ll never believe you. I’m her father.” Irwin folded his arms across his chest. “Really? Who would you believe? A broken down drunk? Or a star, pro football player?” Irwin snatched the check from Mark’s fingers and left the restaurant. Mark stopped in the restroom to wash his hands before he re-ed Penny.

****

Mark knocked on the door, and Megan opened it. “You should have seen the horror show at the airport, Squirt. We were mobbed by reporters, asking every sleazy question they could think of. I wanted to slug ’em.” He purposely ignored the meeting with Irwin Wilson. Penny didn’t volunteer it, either. If I never see that man again, it’ll be too soon. “Glad you didn’t.” Penny related stories about her movie shoot while Mark ordered pizza. Meg opened three bottles of beer for them. At midnight, they retired. Meg slept in the spare bedroom. Jetlag wiped Penny out so she could barely stay awake. She slipped into bed naked and cuddled up to Mark. He drew her close, and she was asleep before he could kiss her goodnight. Mark was up early and out to practice before Penny awoke. She threw on his T-

shirt and padded out to Meg for coffee. “When is Mark planning to move?” Penny asked. “Right after playoffs.” Meg said, taking a sip. “I’m packing up stuff he won’t need now, so we don’t have so much to do later.” “School’s out?” “Christmas break.” “Play-offs?” “Yeah, we have to stay. It depends on if the Gamblers win. The more they win, the longer we have to stay. So, Mark’s rooting for an early loss.” She laughed. “When do they start?” “Sometime in early January. We’re going home for Christmas. Can’t leave my mom on her own.” Penny nodded. Christmas. Shit! She moved toward the bedroom. “I’ve got to get back to my place.” “Don’t go.” “I have to. Gotta get my life in order.” Penny’s cell rang. Keith! That rat! She picked it up, ready to give him a piece of her mind, but he was talking too fast. “I can’t believe it. It’s not out there yet, but I have it from a good source. I can’t believe it. You’re in. Really. I just can’t believe it.” He ran the words together into one enormous, fast sentence. “Keith!” Penny shouted into the phone. “Stop! Slow down. You can’t believe what?” “Well, it’s not official yet, but you’re way ahead, so far. There’s only another week in the voting.” “What the hell are you talking about?”

“You’ve been nominated for an Academy Award for ing actress for The Natural Girl.” Speechless, Penny sank down cross-legged on the floor. Meg was by her side immediately. “Bad news?” the brunette asked. Penny shook her head, still unable to talk. “Yeah. I know. I couldn’t believe it, either. From porn star to Hollywood star in about five seconds. Biggest comeback in history,” Keith said, after stopping to take a breath. “Are you sure?” Penny asked, finally finding her voice. “Hell, yeah. My best friend is sleeping with a girl who works there tallying the votes.” “Holy crap!” Penny stared at Meg. “You can say that again. I’d better get off the phone.” “Are you kidding? A minute ago, I was dirt, now I’m in demand?” “In every interview, they’ll ask you what your next project is. You can’t buy publicity like that. You’re going to be a hot commodity in about another two weeks, baby. So, rest up now because you’re going to be working your fucking tail off.” He hung up. Penny shook her head, stunned. Meg grabbed her arm. “What?” She explained to Mark’s sister what had just happened. The phone buzzed. “Oh, by the way, don’t tell anyone yet. It’s not official.” And Keith hung up again. “We have to keep it a secret, Meg. I can’t believe it. One minute, I’m washed up and the next minute, I’m a star. This is a crazy business.” “What are you going to do?”

“Invite Mark to the Academy Awards,” Penny said, grinning. “I mean, about moving to Delaware?” “This changes everything.” Now, I don’t have to go crawling to Delaware with my tail between my legs, begging Mark to marry me. She pushed to her feet. “I’ve got to get home, get my life organized, and try to figure this all out. I’m dizzy.” “I hope you’ll come to Delaware. You’re not going to dump Mark now, are you?” Megan blurted out. “I love Mark. Nothing can change that.” “Are you coming to Delaware?” “I don’t know what I’m doing. Right now, I’m going home. I need to think.” Meg stepped back, a half-smile on her face. “I hope you decide to come.” I hope Mark offers marriage. Or do I? Do I want to continue acting? Penny’s head ached. She hauled her suitcase to the street and climbed into a taxi. Sitting back against the leather seat, she wondered what she should do and how she was going to decide.

****

Since Mark had signed the contract with the Delaware Demons and it had become public, Darvin Sweetwater had left him alone. Their uneasy truce made practice and games easier on Mark. Still, he was tired of being second-string. With his girl and his new team, Mark’s confidence was at an all-time high. Not exactly invincible, but close to it, he was better on the field than ever. Once Sweetwater didn’t see Mark as a threat to his supremacy on the Gamblers, he took a bit more time off for sore muscles, letting Mark take over.

Tension in the locker room eased a little, now that there was a truce between Mark and Darvin. But the verbal jousting never stopped. “Hey, Davis, you gonna be here for the playoffs?” “Yeah.” “The Super Bowl?” Darvin asked. “You think we’re getting in the Super Bowl this year? Fat chance.” “I’m ready to lead the team to victory.” “Blow it out your ass, Sweetwater.” “You’ve got no team spirit, Davis. That’s what’s wrong with you.” “Sweetwater, you’re what’s wrong with me. I play one-hundred fifty percent all the time.” “Good luck on that whistle-stop, mini-team in Delaware. Hey, is Delaware even a state? I thought it was a town.” Sweetwater grinned. “A town? Where’d you go to school, Dumbass University?” “Fuck you, Davis. Wish you were leaving sooner.” “I bet you do. I’m sure some rookie quarterback has already been signed to replace me here. So, don’t get too comfortable.” The smug smile fell off Darvin Sweetwater’s face. Perspiration broke out on his forehead. “Didn’t think of that, did you? Asshole.” Mark headed for the showers, chuckling all the way. Now that he was leaving, he was getting more playing time than ever. He took it as more training, more knowledge, more practice making quick judgments and decisions. It would help him be the best in Delaware. In his heart, he relished the chance to play against the Gamblers. To throw against Darvin’s team made his mouth water. He’d have his revenge on the playing field, against the man who tried to ruin Penny.

Harley had one more year on his contract, so he’d not be ing Mark in Delaware, though the Demons showed strong interest in g him. Mark was sad to leave his best friend. He hoped they could be together again, but he was looking forward to getting on with his life. He’d be relieved to get away from Darvin Sweetwater and some of the other guys on the team who had made cracks about Penny. A fresh start and a bucket of money looked damn good. Meg would help him manage his new wealth, and he’d pay off all the old loans. I’ll have enough left over to buy a house. The idea of his own house sent shivers down his spine. With Penny’s career in the toilet, she’ll come to Delaware with me. Nothing holding her here. Not that he was happy about what had happened to her, but it seemed to work out for the best, from his point of view. He couldn’t stop smiling. He was going to have the life he wanted, after all. He brought Harley home with him, planning to take Penny, Meg, and Harley out to dinner to celebrate. The two guys were pushing and shoving playfully in the hall. Mark walked in to Meg packing books in a box. “Where’s Penny?” “She went home.” “This is her home now.” Mark threw his keys in the ceramic bowl. Harley went to the fridge and pulled out three bottles of beer. After popping the tops, he ed them out. “Are you sure about that?” “Of course, I am. We have an understanding. She’s got the keys to this place, and she’s coming to Delaware with me.” “Really?” Meg cocked her head. “Have you talked to her today?” “What could have changed from last night to tonight?” “Plenty.” Mark started to sweat. He stood in front of his sister. “If you’re holding something back, now is the time to spit it out. Did she find someone else?”

“You need to talk to her.” Meg lowered her head and continued to place books in the carton. Frustration erupted in Mark. He kicked aside the box. Meg jumped back, retreating to Harley’s lap for protection. “Tell me what the hell is going on.” Mark was barely able to get the words out. “Is it another guy? Her co-star?” “No. Don’t come near me when you’re like this. Calm down. Call her. Hear it from her.” Mark took a swig of his beer and sat down. “I’m sorry. It’s not you. It’s just...there’s so much riding on this...on her. I thought we had this worked out.” “Things change sometimes. Call her.” He picked up his cell. A sick feeling in the pit of his stomach made his hand tremble as the phone dialed.

Chapter Eleven

On a plane to Japan Penny put down her book and stared out the window. Flying first class made the long trip a little easier. I should be going over my lines. Sleeping, something. But she couldn’t focus on what she should be doing when her heart ached. Mark’s in Delaware, and I’m stuck on a plane, committed to this movie. Damn. Why did I do this? She thought about her last phone conversation with Mark. He had been understanding, but insistent. He’d agreed she should have her career, as long as it didn’t interfere with them being together. But acting didn’t cooperate with Mark’s plans. She chewed her thumb nail as she thought about her life. Penny wanted to blame Mark’s lack of a marriage proposal for their being separated. But that explanation didn’t cut it. Although she’d been miffed he’d insisted she come with him, but hadn’t suggested marriage, the real reason she had made other plans was to give herself time to decide. Do I really want to marry Mark? Do I want to become a football wife? Is deg still my dream? Or do I want to go full speed ahead with acting? Try to become a star? So many questions without answers gnawed at Penny. She thought about her mother and what her advice would have been, had she survived. Be happy. That’s what she would have said. It didn’t do Penny any good, as she wasn’t sure where the key to her happiness lay, but suspected she’d find it with Mark. One fact became clear. Wherever she was, if Mark wasn’t with her, all she could do was think about him. When the plane landed, contemplating her future took a backseat to getting along in a new country, where most people didn’t speak English and everything from the food, to the signs, to the environment was foreign to her. Penny huddled together with the other actors. This time, they took her in, and she made friends. At night, some of the actors and crew paired off. It wasn’t that Penny didn’t have offers—she had plenty. But she refused to get involved with any other men.

She chuckled to herself at how much Mark Davis had wound himself around her heart. He was like a thick, stone wall, protecting her from encroachment by other guys. She had no interest in any man other than Mark. If the cast wonders about my sexual orientation, who cares? I’m here for a couple of months. That’s all. My private life is my own business. She threw herself into the movie with everything she had. Her part was still a ing role, not a starring one, but it was meaty. She was the heroine’s best friend and competition. It was normal to shoot fourteen-hour days, so as not to waste a second on this expensive location. Penny worked harder than ever. Yet, she wasn’t satisfied with her performance. Perfection appeared to be just beyond her grasp. She couldn’t shake a feeling of unrest. Filming was difficult, as the weather had not cooperated. It was cold and rainy, and Penny had to perform her scenes without a coat or jacket. By the time the director yelled cut, she was shivering. Takes and retakes wore her out. Then, she ended up getting sick, delaying shooting even more. Being sick and alone, without someone to care for you, sucks. I need my mom, a nurse, Mark, someone. Although she had made good friends with two of the cast, she had little time for socializing. Penny was adamant about her fidelity. She avoided bars and situations where someone might make a at her. It was a lonely existence, but one with no regrets. Before turning out the lights for the night, Penny crossed off each day on a small calendar. Keith pressured her to sign contracts for two more films, but she resisted. “Can I finish this one first, Keith, before I decide on the next one?” “Sign the contract. I’ll get you a month off to recoup. Same with the third one. You’ll have three movies out in a year and be in great demand.” “That’s another eight months of my life, maybe more.” “Yeah, so? You got something better to do? You’ll be famous.” Maybe I do, but I’m not telling you. “Let’s see how this one goes, before I sign on for the next.”

“They want to know now. Just sign. It’s good money.” “Another ing role?” “Yep. That’s your bread and butter, babe. The girl who never gets the guy. You’ll make a fortune doing her part on the big screen.” Penny made an excuse to get rid of Keith and put the phone away. His words hit her between the eyes. Am I the girl who never gets the guy? Do I want to spend my life like her? She boarded a plane for the States two weeks after her talk with Keith. A ticket to Los Angeles came with plans for publicity shots the next week. Penny had lots of time to get ready for her next rendezvous. She leaned back in her comfortable, first class seat and sipped champagne as she stared out the window. The guy next to her pressed for her number. A star isn’t rude to fans. She’s nice. Polite. Find a nice way to tell him to shut the hell up. He finally fell asleep, his head lolling dangerously close to her shoulder. Penny couldn’t rest peacefully. She dozed in bits and woke from a bad dream or an accidental poke from the man in the other seat. When they landed in Seattle, she eased out from under the scrutiny of the rabid fan and made her way to the gate for her connecting flight to Los Angeles. As she walked through the airport, a small billboard ment caught her eye. It was for insurance and showed a man, a woman, and two children standing in the yard of her ideal house. The pitched roof, front porch, and white picket fence caught her eye. She stopped to stare and heard a little voice in her head. Her eyes watered as she gazed at the picture. They called final boarding for her flight to L.A. Penny looked around then directed her feet toward the customer service counter.

****

March, Wilmington, Delaware Mark had spent his first month in Delaware house shopping, meeting local residents, and posing for publicity shots. Dozens of fans dropped casseroles, cakes, or brownies on his doorstep to welcome their newly famous neighbor. Wilmington was abuzz about the Delaware Demons. Even southern New Jersey residents were scooping up season tickets at a rapid rate. Mark had been interviewed by the local newspapers and the television and radio stations. He couldn’t go out to dinner with his sister without being mobbed by fans and honored by restaurants. His picture was taken and hung on the wall at every restaurant he frequented. His fame drove Meg nuts. She craved privacy, one thing Mark would never possess again. He got lost a few times on the road to the new stadium. Delaware was a picturesque state, and even when he ended up taking a roundabout route to practice, he enjoyed the scenery. Since everyone was new on the team, no one had formed alliances, or a sense of ownership over their position yet. Mark enjoyed meeting his friendly, new teammates, some who were rookies like him, and some who were seasoned veterans. Practice was as strenuous as it was in Las Vegas. The coaches in Delaware were as demanding and as foul-mouthed. Mark was right at home. Most of his teammates were married. Some had kids. He looked forward to becoming one of the married players. Uncertainty about Penny—when she’d be through shooting her current movie, and if she’d give up her career to marry him and move to Delaware—was always on his mind. Gotta happen. Please, God. Mark hadn’t proposed, hadn’t wanted to demand she choose between him and the movie business. Perhaps he’d hung back because he was afraid she’d choose film over him. So, he waited, trying to be patient, to hear from her that she was ready to move on. Though he wanted to settle down with her more than anything, those words had not been spoken yet, and his doubt about their future together grew. He missed her even more when it came to setting up his new life in Delaware. Indecision gripped Mark’s guts when it came to choosing new colors for walls or wallpaper. Penny would know what to do. But she wasn’t there. Penny’s career had taken flight when the Academy Awards nominations were announced, and

she was among the candidates for Best ing Actress. She had had three movie offers to choose from, one paying more than the next, and none had nude scenes. Mark had seen The Natural Girl. He agreed with the Academy. Penny’s performance had been perfection. But Mark knew he wasn’t a very good judge, as he was completely, madly in love with her. Everything she did was amazing to him. He had been almost as let down as she when she didn’t win. She joked about it, but he could see the disappointment in her eyes. Like blowing the playoffs or the Super Bowl. I’d be depressed too. Penny had picked herself up and continued with her contractual obligations, flying off to shoot a new movie. Mark had sent his new address to her when he found the house. She congratulated him, but didn’t comment on the picture he sent. Yeah, it even has the white picket fence, baby. He knew in his heart no one else would do. So, he waited, distracting himself with training, decorating, fixing up the house, and hanging out with his sister. Penny was still in Japan filming. She’d been there for several months. With the time difference, Mark’s workout schedule, learning the Demons’ playbook, and working on the house, email between them had dwindled. Mark suspected Penny was having an affair with a co-star, and he didn’t have the heart to find out. He buried his breaking heart in a flurry of activity. Megan knew what was up, but kept her mouth shut. She loved Penny like a sister and prayed the actress would reunite with Mark, though chances grew slimmer as time ed. Meg and Mark didn’t talk much about Penny’s return, but they never gave up hope, either. “She knows my number. She has my address. I’m not hiding. When she’s ready, she’ll come back to me,” he said, while they worked on the house or ate dinner. “I know, Lug. She will. She will,” Meg agreed. Sometimes, he’d stand at the window, looking out at the chilly, gray March day, staring at the sea in the distance, hoping for the sight of a taxi pulling into his drive with Penny in the back.

****

Harley and Mark hauled groceries and cans of paint from his SUV into the snug little house near the beach. The comfortable, three-bedroom house had half an acre of land, an attic, a basement, a fireplace, and a white picket fence. Mark’s hope hadn’t died. Meg opened the door for them, letting in a chilling wind. Something smelled good. Meg’s chili. The men plopped down on the sofa in front of the fireplace to thaw their bones. Mark lived there alone, except now, when graduate school was on spring break. Harley was visiting while he hammered out a deal to the Demons when his contract with the Gamblers expired. Mark had invited him to stay until formal training started, and Harley had taken him up on the offer. Harley ed Meg in the kitchen. Mark put down his packages to warm his hands by the fire when he heard a door slam. Turning, he spied a strange car in his driveway. He grabbed his down jacket and went out to investigate. There stood Penny, her blonde hair shining despite the dreary day. Bundled up in a pink down coat, her mittened hands framed her face. On closer inspection, Mark saw tears running down her cheeks. He walked up cautiously, not knowing what to expect. His heartbeat kicked up, and his mouth went dry. Is she here to stay? Will she marry me now? “I didn’t know when you were coming back.” Mark wiped his hands on his jeans. “If you’d told me, I could have met you at—” “The movie is finished,” she said in a small, shaky voice, interrupting him. He hesitated at the end of the stone walk. What do I do? “You did it,” she said. “Did what?” He raised his eyebrows. “Bought a house with a white picket fence.” A lump formed in his throat.

“Did you buy it for me?” He nodded. “And a fireplace?” “Why don’t you take a look inside?” She ran to him, leaping into his embrace. “I love you so much, Mark.” “Do you? Is this a pit stop on the way to another movie?” He tightened his arms around her. “I don’t want to do another movie. I want to be here with you.” She squeezed him harder. “Then, stay.” “I want to get married,” she whispered. His eyes got round, and he stared at her. “Why didn’t you say so?” She cried into his chest. “I was waiting for you to ask.” He put her down and dropped onto one knee. “Penny Thatcher, will you marry me? I love you more than life itself. Stay. Be my wife. I’ll pay for school. Have your dream. Have it with me.” He stood up and threaded his fingers through her silky hair. “I will, oh, God. Mark, yes. I will, oh, damn. I will.” Mark picked her up and carried her inside. As he put her down, he yelled into the kitchen, “Set the table for one more, Meg.” She and Harley peeked out from the archway. “Oh, my God, Penny!” “We’re getting married,” Mark said, beaming first at his sister then at his fiancée. “It’s about time.” Megan said, licking the wooden spoon in her hand.

Epilogue

`

––––––––

Saturday, May, A year later. The Royal Apartment Building on Central Park West, Manhattan. Penny Thatcher Davis stood in a short, filmy negligee in the kitchen of the spacious, luxury, two-bedroom apartment. The big windows hugging the breakfast nook didn’t distract her. Bacon was frying, and she mixed eggs with a little milk to make them fluffy. Her husband, Mark, star quarterback for the Delaware Demons, wrapped his arms around his wife, pulling her tight against him as he nuzzled her neck. Penny eased her head back, moaning softly as his hands closed over her breasts. “Ouch!” She pushed his hand down. “Take that off when you’re with me.” “Sorry. I forgot.” Mark slipped his Super Bowl ring off and tossed it in the ceramic bowl on the kitchen counter. With Penny by his side, his first season with Delaware had been golden. While he didn’t win every game, he won most. His fame grew. Even when they traveled to their apartment in New York City, Mark was accosted by fans and had his picture snapped by photographers. He appeared in all the papers and sports magazines. With his beautiful wife by his side, he even made a brief appearance in Celebs ’R Us, in a section called “Notable Newlyweds.” Penny attended every game and learned football, inside and out. She bought a fancy sewing machine and began to experiment with designs. She had fixed all

Mark’s decorating mistakes made in their house in Delaware. When the season was over, she had created a beautiful and comfortable home in their spacious, New York City apartment as well, with help from Meg. Mark replaced his hands and massaged her while his lips lightly brushed her throat. The phone rang. “Put it on speaker,” Mark whispered. Penny pressed the button and returned her attention to her husband’s large, seductive fingers. “Lug, it’s me!” Mark raised his head. “Squirt? What’s up?” “I got the job.” “What job?” He went back to kissing Penny’s neck. “The job at Dillon and Weed. There were at least five people vying for that job, and I got it.” “Congratulations.” “You don’t sound very interested.” “There are all sorts of things we do on a Saturday morning, Squirt, and being your cheerleader usually isn’t one of them.” “Get your mind out of the bedroom for one second, will ya? Dillon and Weed is big, and the salary is terrific. I can come and rent your condo while you’re in Delaware.” “Wasn’t that the plan, all along?” he asked, lifting his head. “I know, I know. But it’s actually gonna happen. I’m so pumped.” “Congratulations, Megan. That’s awesome. We’re really proud of you.” “Thank you, Penny. It’s nice to be appreciated,” Meg sniffed. “Okay, okay, I get it. I’m proud of you, too.”

“I’ll be managing rich people’s money. You’ll be my first client.” There was a ding in the background. “Wait. Email from them. I hope I’m not fired before I start.” “Don’t be paranoid, Squirt.” Silence from Meg got the attention of both Penny and Mark, who stopped their foreplay and stared at the phone. “What is it?” Mark asked. “Oh, crap.” “Meg?” “They’re putting me in charge of their brand-new, celebrity division.” “Celebrities? You hate the limelight.” “And I hate celebrities. Wait. Another email.” Again silence. Penny and Mark moved closer to the speaker. “Oh, my God.” “What?” “Guess who I’m pitching to become my client?”

THE END

Meg’s potential client is revealed and her story is continued in IF I LOVED YOU, the first book in the Hollywood Hearts series. You’ll find Penny and Mark there too. Find it where fine ebooks are sold. Also in paperback. Read more about Jean Joachim’s books on her website. She loves to hear from readers. her here: [email protected]

Author Biography

Jean Joachim, wife and mother of two sons, is owned by a rescued pug, named Homer. She’d been writing non-fiction for what seemed like forever until she got up the nerve to try fiction. It was love. Now she spends her days in New York City in the company of her characters, with a cup of tea and a secret stash of black licorice. She has 18 romance books published and seven non-fiction books.

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