Smooth Play

Smooth Play: Brooklyn Monarchs Season 1, Book II

One-on-one is the hottest play ...

A passion for the game is what it takes to win. But off the court, it takes a different kind of savvy to heat things up. . .

He's part problem-solver and part dream-maker. There's not a crisis he can't avert. And handling the NBA's most explosive team has put public relations ace Troy Marshall at the top of his game. It also gives him a chance to give back to the community. But one determined reporter is messing with his flow. And he'll need way more than skill and charm to win this tempting one-on-one.

Andrea Benson's instincts tell her that something major is going on behind-the-scenes with this franchise. And a headline story is the only way she can regain the career and good name she let slip away. But Troy's sincerity is throwing her for an unexpected – and very seductive – loop. Can they trust each other enough to uncover the truth – or will too many secrets be their breaking point?

Excerpt

Troy saw a different Andrea Benson when she opened the door to her apartment Tuesday evening. The normally buttoned-up reporter wore hot pink Capri pants, exposing her trim calves and slender ankles. Superman's logo dominated a powder blue T-shirt that molded her small breasts. But her toes were the greatest surprise. Who would have thought her conservative black pumps hid sparkly pink toenails?

"I asked you to call me." Andrea stood with one hand braced on the doorjamb. The other gripped the doorknob.

He dragged his gaze back to her eyes. "I wanted to talk with you in person. May I come in?"

He sensed a "no" hovering between them. Andrea considered him for a silent moment. She seemed uncertain. Troy braced for the rejection. He'd lost his job. Disappointed a boss he admired and was the source of distraction for the team he'd tried to protect. He couldn't handle being turned away now.

Troy opened his mouth to plead his case just as Andrea stepped aside.