Intercepted by Love: Part Five: A Football Romance (The Quarterback's Heart Book 5) (13 page)

A
ndie’s mother
propped her up on pillows, and her father wheeled his chair next to the bed. Andie’s divorce from Declan was final, she was twenty-eight weeks pregnant, and she was confined to bedrest due to premature labor. There was no better place than home with Mom and Dad, since Cade was in Santa Clara, California at Forty-Niner Stadium for the Golden Super Bowl, where the Los Angeles Flash would take the field against the New York Warthogs.

Cade was the starting quarterback for the Warthogs against Todd Irvin, who still played for the Flash.

As for the events following the sting, Rob Cash was tried and found guilty of influencing the game along with some of the players, including Devon Davis, the kicker, Carmine Carmona, and a few of the linebackers. Dick died from the gunshot wound, but Barbara had survived.

During Rob’s trial, Roxanne took a plea bargain and ratted out her brother and every player who was guilty. Devon had bought the drugs on Dick’s behalf to get Cade’s mother hooked again. They hadn’t meant for her to overdose, only to get her dependent so that when she wanted more drugs, they could shake her down for the password to her bank account. Roxanne never admitted to stealing Cade’s credit card, and they couldn’t prove she left the threatening notes in his pillowcase since the notes weren’t written in her handwriting.

She definitely wasn’t all that innocent even though she played the victim, complaining that Rob used her to sleep with team owners to extract better deals for his clients. She pled guilty for extorting money from Dick and was given a suspended sentence and probation.

Declan was only in this mess for the publicity and when it turned bad, he dropped Roxanne like a hot potato. Although, some of the notoriety helped him audition for bad boy roles, he never made the cut and ended up taking a role in a children’s production.

Meanwhile, Barbara had disappeared after recovering from her wound, a bullet graze. It was speculated that she’d handed the chips to Cade’s brother Donnie, who’d cashed them in and left the country.

“Time to watch your daddy,” Andie’s mother said, holding Bret on her lap as the Super Bowl continued after a commercial break. On TV, the crowd cheered loudly, drowning out the announcers.

Bret gurgled and laughed. He was a happy little fellow and Cade’s biological son after all. It was Barbara’s idea to trick Dick into thinking Bret was his son so she could milk him for more money. As for how Bret was conceived, well, as Roxanne explained, Barbara used to clean Cade’s bathroom as a side job, and Cade never flushed his condoms down the toilet.

Yuck. It made Andie want to barf, but then again, after Roxanne confessed to being paid to have Bret for blackmail purposes, she’d signed Bret over to Andie and Cade, so Bret was now her son legally.

Andie reached over and tickled Bret’s fat tummy, eliciting squeals of delighted laughter.

The game progressed back and forth. First the Flash led and then the Warthogs, who were the underdogs. Despite the turmoil earlier in the season with the Flash, Dinah Silver, Dick’s widow, was able to take control as the owner and assemble a formidable team, even with salary caps in place. She vowed to root out all cheaters, and apparently, the commissioner was satisfied that she had had no part in Dick’s dirty dealings. Devon, of course, was in jail for his role in killing his father, even though he claimed it was an accident.

Andie’s heart leaped every time Cade took to the field. No matter how many times she’d seen him play, she would never get over the excitement and pure joy of watching her favorite pro quarterback in the world.

The game tightened in the fourth quarter. The Flash led by seven points, but Todd Irvin was sacked for a loss, and the Flash had to punt. The commentators speculated that there was only time for one more drive, or if the Flash were able to force the Warthogs to punt, they would be in position to win by running out the clock.

Cade completed pass after pass as the Warthogs drove down the field. Each pass stopped the clock, and the crowd was in a frenzy.

“This is turning into a replay of the last Super Bowl,” the announcer said. “Cade Prescott has got to be feeling the pressure.”

“That’s true,” the second commentator said. “He’s led a seventy yard drive, and it’s first and goal with less than a minute left. Only his team is seven points down. A touchdown and extra point would tie and force the game into overtime.”

“Let’s see what he does. There they go, breaking the huddle and lining up. The ball’s snapped, and Prescott drops back in the pocket. Oh no, none of his receivers are open. He’s stepping back, back, Johnson’s broken through. Is this going to be a sack?”

“He’s going to throw it! Long and deep. Just like last year. He’s insane. There’s no recei—Touchdown! Unbelievable. Cade Prescott has thrown a touchdown.”

“Yay! Hooray!” Andie’s family whooped and cheered. Even baby Bret squealed loudly, joining in on the hooting.

“Cade did it.” Andie bounced in the bed, but stopped when her womb contracted.

“Don’t get too excited.” Her mother rubbed her back. “Deep breaths. Deep breaths.”

Beside her, her father smiled and gave her a thumbs up. He’d been regaining motion slowly but steadily, and was a pro with the speaking machine by now.

They turned their attention to the field.

“The special team is setting up, and it looks like Cade Prescott is going to be the holder for the extra point,” the first announcer said.

“Didn’t he injure his hand pre-season when he tried that last time?” the second announcer remarked.

“That’s right. It’s inconceivable that the Warthogs would use their quarterback to hold for the extra point, unless …”

“The ball is snapped. You’re right. Instead of placing it down, Prescott stands up for a pass. He doesn’t have a man free. Oh no, he’s scrambling now, the defense has broken through. This has got to be the worst play of any Super Bowl. Worse than the interception last year.”

“Go, Cade, go!” Andie yelled at the TV. “You can do it.”

As they held their breath, Cade tucked the ball and ran. He broke a tackle, then he was jumping toward the goal line, as the entire team from both sides piled on top of him.

“What happened? Where is he?” Andie had her hands over her mouth, her heart in her throat.

The referees blew their whistles, and the camera zoomed in on the pile as players were peeled away.

“Two points!” the announcer roared. And there was Cade hugging the ball just over the goal line. “Warthogs win the Golden Super Bowl. I have no doubt Cade Prescott, super number ten, will be the Super Bowl MVP.”

Andie grabbed Bret and hugged him while her mother hugged her Dad, and then hugged her. This was truly her best day ever.

Cade and his teammates were celebrating on the field as the clock ran out. Tears of joy ran down Andie’s face. Cade had been vindicated. He was truly the hero in more ways than one.

Todd Irvin, the Flash quarterback, congratulated Cade, and so did his former teammates. Black and white confetti flooded the stadium and the announcers were going crazy.

“Prescott has broken all Super Bowl records, completing forty-one passes, going ten for ten on the last eighty yard drive.”

“That’s right, lucky number ten, that’s Cade Prescott’s number ever since he started playing football.”

“Yes, and you never know what to expect from him. The most extraordinary play was going for the two point conversion over the almost guaranteed extra point kick. That takes balls.”

“I’ll say. Cade Prescott has vindicated himself after the LA Flash scandal that took down his former agent and the former owner.”

“As well as his half-brother, who’s sitting in jail on murder charges.”

“What a story, we’ll have the presentation of the Vince Lombardi trophy after these messages.”

The TV cut to commercials as phone calls flooded in on Andie and her family. Her cell phone was busy, as was the landline. Andie turned on her tablet and her social media exploded.

Her mother took call after call, and then the TV cut back with the presentation of the trophy. The silver trophy with a big football on top was brought through the line of players, who touched it or kissed it. As it made its way toward the stage, Andie kept her eyes peeled for Cade. He was near the end of the line and when the trophy passed by, his teammates hoisted him on their shoulders and passed the trophy to him to hold. He handed it to the commissioner who was onstage already. It was the same commissioner who had reviewed all of the videos of the previous year’s Super Bowl and exonerated Cade one hundred percent. His actions, emotions, and every movement had been scrutinized and cleared, but it took Rob’s trial and Devon’s downfall to convince most skeptics, especially the gossip press who couldn’t believe the Warthogs had taken him on.

The commissioner gave a speech, followed by the coach. And then it was time for the MVP.

Cade stood on the platform, sweat still glistening on his face and grease paint striped under his eyes, sporting a huge grin.

“I’m very proud of this team and the great defense we had on the line, as well as the best receivers in the league.” His deep voice echoed throughout the stadium. “I appreciate all your faith in me and the support I got from the league. Victory is always a lot sweeter when you have someone to share it with.”

“That’s so true,” the emcee said. “We’re proud to present you the Golden Super Bowl MVP. We have someone on the line for you. Ladies and gentlemen, look up on the jumbotron …”

Andie followed the TV camera which pointed to the jumbotron. It has a split screen with Cade on one side and Andie’s picture on the other side with the flashing words, “making video call.”

At the same time, ringing sounds zinged from her tablet.

“No way,” she yelped. “He’s calling me in front of everyone?”

“Answer it,” her mother said.

“The entire stadium awaits one woman named Antoinette Marie Wales to answer her video call,” the announcer commented.

Oh my! She’d better answer or Cade would be embarrassed. Andie clicked ‘on’ to answer.

“Hey, you’re there,” Cade said.

“Congratulations. Wow, I can’t believe it,” she replied, sounding stupid. Everyone in the world could see her sitting in bed with her hair all mussed up. Bret waved his hands, so she lifted him and said, “He’s mighty proud of you, too.”

“Hey, there little guy.” Cade waved and the fans in the stadium said, “Aww…”

Suddenly, Cade bent onto his knee and looked up at Andie, his eyes beaming true blue.

Andie’s jaw dropped and fireworks exploded in her chest. What was he doing? Was this it? The big romantic moment?

Cade raised his hand and popped open a velvet box with a huge marquise cut blue diamond. It sparkled continuously under all the stadium lights and flashbulbs.

A giant hush descended on the stadium as Cade said, “Antoinette Marie Wales, the best interception of my life was when you jumped out of nowhere and grabbed my heart. You are my MVP and I would like nothing better than to huddle with you the rest of my life. Will you do me the honor and marry me?”

Andie held Bret close and hugged him tight. She nodded and hiccupped as happiness danced over her. “Yes, yes, I will. I love you, Cade. Now, give me that ring.”

She made a swipe at the camera and the entire stadium burst out in laughter.

Thank you for reading Cade and Andie’s story. While their love is secure, Cade’s mother is still at large. Turn the page for the description of
Intercepted by Love: Part 6
, a bonus story covering Cade and Andie’s wedding. Will Barb be back?

Victory should be sweet for pro quarterback, Cade Prescott. He’s won the Super Bowl MVP, has a baby on the way, and is marrying the love of his life, librarian Andie Wales.

Raised by foster parents, Cade yearns to be part of a real family. Unfortunately, his mother is running from the law, and Andie refuses to plan the wedding unless her future mother-in-law is included.

Will Cade and Andie’s special day result in reconciliation or utter ruin?

—

Be sure to pick up
Intercepted by Love: Part 6
for the heartwarming wedding, including the entire cast of Andie and Cade’s friends and the exciting finale.

—

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I
f Andie
and Cade were opposites, then Carina and Dylan are on different planets. Carina Chen is an uptight investment banking intern who doesn’t waste time dating. Her roommate, sinfully sexy Dylan Jewell, is a typical underachiever—barista, guitar player in a blues rock band, and homeless advocate. Carina holds out for upward mobility, but when opposite hearts collide, anything can happen. Will Dylan rock her world or will she leave him behind in her search for success?

Whole Latte Love

Excerpt Copyright © 2014 Rachelle Ayala

All Rights Reserved

Carina Chen had no time for nonsense.

“Show off.” She couldn’t help glaring at the shaggy-haired barista as he demonstrated the art of milk frothing to a gaggle of college girls.

Hair flipping and eyelashes fluttering, they oohed and ahhed nonstop while he spun milk underneath the steam nozzle. When he layered the milk over a cup of espresso, they squealed as if they were in the middle of a group orgasm.

Carina elbowed her way through the crowded coffee shop and ordered her cup from the female barista, whose line was much shorter. Serving lattes didn’t require sleek muscles and gem-blue eyes.

“Yummy.” Her friend Sheila checked her watch. “I come just to watch the show. Wonder which one he’ll take home tonight.”

“Only one?” Carina set her cup on the table. “Enough about him. I still haven’t found a room for the summer. Didn’t you say you had a friend needing a renter?”

Sheila stole her gaze from the demonstration of coffee-making prowess and licked her lips. “Yeah, let’s wait for his break, and I’ll introduce you.”

Carina looked toward the espresso machine. “
Him?
Never mind. I’m not sure I could stomach the guy. He’s got to be full of himself.”

Sheila’s eyes wandered back to the front counter and lingered. “You have to admit, he’s hotter than the Sahara.”

“That’s exactly my point.” Carina watched him hand a steaming mug to a perky cheerleader. His mischievous smile did funny things to her insides and it wasn’t even directed at her. “I need a quiet place to crash after my eighteen-hour days, not some bachelor pad with nightly orgies. I can imagine the revolving door on his bedroom. No thanks.”

Despite her hasty denial, warm flutters bubbled in her belly when the barista stepped out from behind the counter. He was broad-shouldered, but not bulky, and he moved with the easy grace of a mountain lion as he collected the empties. Heck, the man probably boosted Abercrombie & Fitch’s stock price two full points each time he bent over to wipe a table.

“You could at least meet the guy before you pass judgment.” Sheila folded her arms. “Look, the important thing is, he has a great apartment close to the Berkeley BART station.”

Easy access to rapid transit was a point in his favor, but … “You sure he’s safe?”

“I promise. Dylan’s a boy scout. Besides,” Sheila said with a sly smile, “an orgy or two might do you some good.”

While Carina struggled to close her gaping mouth, Sheila raised a hand to wave him over.

Dylan wiped his palms on his apron and pulled a stool from the next table.

“Hey, what’s up?” He greeted Sheila with a nod and trained his eyes on Carina.

Up close, he was even more swoon-worthy. Wavy brown hair hung almost to his neck, and his jaw was stubbly, as if he’d forgotten to shave a day or two. His presence filled all available breathing space between them, and his piercing gaze felt like a tractor beam drawing Carina toward him.

“Dyl, this is Carina Chen. She needs a room to rent,” Sheila said. “She’s working at Mogul this summer.”

“Nice to meet you,” Dylan said. “Investment banking?”

“Intern analyst.” Carina tamped down the pride swelling in her chest as well as a more worrying heat in her lower regions. “I got the offer two days ago, last minute.”

“Cool!” He gave her a thumbs up, and the thick silver cuff on his wrist glinted in the late afternoon sunlight coming through the window. “My roommate moved out two days ago. Must be fate.”

It had to be the sun’s heat that was making her sweat under her suit jacket. Nope, it was definitely not Dylan’s sideways grin nor the way his veins moved over his large hands when he flexed his fingers.

“How much?” Carina’s voice barely squeaked past her tight vocal cords.

“Your share of the rent’s twelve-hundred a month. We split the utilities. You get your own bedroom but we’ll share a bathroom.”

Sharing a bathroom with a guy might get tricky. Where would she hide her feminine products?

“You’ll love it.” Sheila cut in. “It’s close to shopping, restaurants, and the campus.”

“That’s so much more than I paid in Philadelphia,” Carina said. “I don’t know Berkeley very well. Is that what rentals go for around here?”

“It’s much less than San Francisco, especially the Financial District.” Sheila hopped off her barstool. “I gotta hit the loo. Text me when you’re ready to leave.”

“Wait, I’m not sure.” Carina faltered. Why was she acting like this was a blind date? It wasn’t like she hadn’t lived in a coed dorm before. Besides, a guy satisfied to work in a coffee shop was not her type, so there should be no worries whatsoever about wanting him for a boyfriend.

Dylan placed his smartphone on the table. “I have to get back to the job. Call yourself from my cell so I’ll have your number.”

Zing.
His killer grin hit the mark, right between her thighs. The guy knew what he was doing. Oh no, she wasn’t giving her number to that kind of man. She’d ask Sheila if she knew of any women needing roommates. She still had one more day to hit the streets and go over listings, and she most definitely was not going to be another phone number on his to-call list.

“I still have a few other places to check out.” Carina picked up her coffee cup. “Do you think I could get a takeout cup for this?”

Dylan grasped the handle, his fingers lingering a beat too long against hers. “Even better. I’ll make you a new one. This one’s cold.”

Carina’s cheeks warmed as a tingly shiver worked its way up her arm. Geez, she wasn’t usually this hormonal.

“Wait, your phone …” Carina picked up Dylan’s phone and walked toward the counter where he prepared the coffee. A poster plastered on the wall showed him strutting with his guitar onstage with a band called The Licked Blues. They had a gig at a club later this evening. Typical. Another guy wasting his life away with no prospect of financial success.

“Almost done.” Dylan layered the espresso on the bottom of the cup and dipped the milk pitcher up, then lowered it and cut across.

Carina gasped as a creamy heart floated to the top.

He handed her the takeout cup and rested one elbow on the counter. “Carina, if you room with me, I’ll have one of these for you every morning.”

His voice caressed her name like the languid beckon of a lover calling her back to bed.

Carina swallowed hard, but before she could respond, Dylan swung toward an elderly woman positioning her walker to get out of a booth. The college girls waved and vied for his attention, but he took his time helping the woman to the door before going back for their orders.

I’m a goner now.

Carina typed her number into Dylan’s phone.