Chapter 1: Introduction
Bright lights exploded behind my eyes, and the raucous cheers of the crowd still echoed in my ears as I stumbled my way to the hotel suite. After what felt like hours of celebrating the Timberwolves' victory and receiving congratulatory drinks and the like, all I could think about was collapsing in a luxurious bed. As the team poured into the elevator, an arm draped around my shoulders, and I could fairly guess that Kyle, the captain and star player of Minnesota's team, was the one holding me up.
The tension was palpable; it was clear that all of them had more than just team spirit on their minds. I smiled as Kyle whispered in my ear, "Enjoying the ride, Alexis?"
Biting my lip and looking up at him suggestively, I replied, "Oh, I don't know; I think it's just getting started."
Kyle chuckled and leaned in to kiss me. It was a playful peck, but it hinted at what was to come.
The scent of whiskey and sweat intermingled on his breath as he whispered, "We have a little surprise for our biggest fan." I could already feel my pulse quicken with anticipation and intrigue.
The doors opened to the penthouse suite, where a few of the other players had already gathered. Gorgeous, athletic men greeted me with knowing glances and easy grins; it was evident that the alcohol and testosterone swirled through the air.
Kyle pulled me towards the imposing bar, toying with a loose strand of my hair and whispered, "Drink?" I nodded as he traced an icy glass against my burning skin, causing my heart to race with even more anticipation. I took a sip, feeling the warm liquid spread throughout my core, and began to feel bolder. I didn't miss the sly grins exchanged between the men, nor the lull in the conversations, as if they waited anxiously for an unspoken cue.
Jake Stevens, a key player, rose from his seat and approached us.