“Oh wow. That’s really nice of you, but you don’t need to do that. We usually watch the games here.”

“So, you really do watch? You weren’t just putting me on?”

I laugh. Of all the things to lie about that one never entered my mind. “Yes, we really watch.”

“Come to the game. There’s nothing like being at Ray Fieldhouse on game day and it’s the last home game of the season.”

“Okay.”

He grins, looking more relaxed and like himself, and sits forward. “I should go so you can get some sleep before the little man wakes up.”

Is that why he’s leaving or is it just an excuse? I can’t get a read on him. If he’s suddenly not into me then why would he invite me to the game? Good God, this can’t be him trying to be a decent guy and going slow for my benefit. Can it?

I move my feet so he can stand and then follow him to the front door weighing my options and trying to decide what it is I really want from him. I’ve been so caught up in what he wants or doesn’t want that, I’ve barely entertained my own wants.

He turns at the door and reaches out for my hand. I let him weave our fingers together and I peer up at him trying to read every thought or emotion that might be there. He’s given me no real reason to hesitate or second guess and that’s the most surprising thing of all. Joel Moreno has a heart. Or at least a conscience.

In for a penny, in for a pound.

“You could stay,” I offer and then wince at the totally forward words. “I mean, tomorrow is Friday and I don’t work or have any classes so being tired isn’t the end of the world.”

He smirks but doesn’t say anything arrogant to make me instantly regret my decision. Instead, he threads a hand through my hair and brings his lips to mine.

“Do you want me to stay?” His question vibrates against my lips. He sounds earnest and hopeful as if my answer changes his.

“Yes, but—”

My answer is cut short as he slams his lips to mine in a kiss that takes my breath and makes my head swim. I pull back. I need to tell him my conditions before I’m swept away by his touch.

“Wait.”

He captures my face with both of his massive hands and stares down at me. “Does the but change anything that could possibly happen in the next two hours?”

“No, but—”

“Tell me later then.”

His hands go to my hips and he leans down and scoops me up. His intent is clear, and I jump into his arms all too happily.

“Which way?” he asks, breaking the kiss only long enough to get out the words.

I respond by motioning with my head and Joel moves in the direction of my bedroom. I’ve never been more thankful that Christian’s room is on the opposite side of our apartment. It provides a buffer to noise, which has never been an issue before, but I’m thinking might be tonight.