The heavy metal door of the locker room clicked shut, sealing us off from the deafening roar of the stadium. It was suddenly so quiet that the only sounds I could hear were the heavy, adrenaline-fueled rasp of Hunter's breathing and the frantic hammering of my own heart.
The room smelled of deep-heat rub, sweat, and worn leather, but above it all was the sharp, intoxicating scent of cedar and mint radiating from the massive man standing before me. Hunter was still wearing his game gear, covered in grass stains and mud, looking like a battle-hardened gladiator who had just conquered the world.
He didn't hesitate. He crossed the short distance between us in two powerful strides, his hands coming up to grip my waist. He practically lifted me off my feet, carrying me backward until my legs b
