Field of Play: Alexandria Griffins

By Frances Stockton

When PI Grace Daniels meets swoon-worthy football star Dallas McKay, she wouldn't mind engaging in a little consensual unnecessary roughness with him! But this is a job, and she will remain professional no matter how much McKay's charming grin threatens to draw her offsides.

A career-ending attack on a teammate has Dallas searching for answers about his past and birth family. When a snowed-in weekend puts him and Grace in an unexpected timeout, they share secrets, desires…and realize they have far more in common than meets the eye.

Except once the snow thaws and Grace's investigation begins in earnest, conspiratorial outsiders threaten to turn the field of play into a dangerous game. Can Grace and Dallas unravel and expose their opponents before time runs out?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Frances Stockton
• Release date: Jan 16, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215047064

Frances Stockton

My love for storytelling began when I created my first fictional characters, mischievous, identical twin brothers, in kindergarten. Years later, I started to write, completing my first handwritten manuscript when I was in middle school. I confess, the heroine was a cross between a contemporary Laura Ingalls Wilder and Nancy Drew, but when I wrote ‘the end’ I knew I had more stories to tell.  Of course, life intervened, but whether I was in high school, college, working a variety of jobs on my path to earning a degree in History and Secondary Education, I was always writing and reading romances. Finally, I joined RWA and the New England Chapter, becoming an author with Ellora’s Cave until the publisher closed its doors. Now, I am writing under my own name and loving every minute of it. I truly enjoy hearing from readers. Please let me know what you think at [e-mail]

Book preview

Chapter One

Griffins Nest Stadium—Alexandria, Virginia

On a third and long with one last shot at the endzone, QB Ricky Weathers lasered the football to wideout Dallas McKay, who caught it in stride and ran into the endzone, scoring the game-winning TD as the clock struck zero!

They did it, Anna, the Griffins pulled off a miracle comeback, Grace shouted to her friend, both of them on their feet as rock music blasted throughout the stadium, the players rushed the field, and crowd positively electric.

Caught up in moment, Grace whipped off her glove, tucked two fingers between her lips, and blew a two-fingered whistle, miraculously seeming to draw Dallas away from his teammates only to remove his helmet and stare—at her!

Oh my god, Grace, you better sit down, Dallas just chose to celebrate that TD with you, Anna Black warned a heartbeat before he sprinted toward them, scaled a ramp, then hopped over a railing to stand right in front of her just as she reclaimed her seat.

Hi, you must be Grace, he said, surprising her further by offering the football still in his hand. Think you could hold this for me until we meet up later?

Um, sure, she answered, reaching for the ball just as he suddenly slipped on something and ended up in her lap! Oh, my god, I’m so sorry.

No apologies, beautiful. Are you hurt? he asked, the warmth of his body combined with the deep resonance with a hint of a southern drawl in his voice heating her up far better than the puffy coat, gloves, and hiking boots with little warming packs inside.

Not at all, Mr. McKay, she assured, glancing over at Anna, who was beaming at the interaction.

Name’s Dallas. As to the ball, it’s for a kid who couldn’t make it tonight and I’d like to make sure nothing happens to it.

In that case, I’ll keep it safe. Promise, she said, being certain to put her glove back on before accepting the ball.

Thanks. Please, forgive me for the botched introduction, he said, his compelling dark brown eyes drawing her attention to his incredibly handsome face that must’ve been chiseled by fallen angels.

I don’t know, having Dallas McKay on my lap is icing on the cake after that TD, she countered, blinking when snowflakes peppered his straight shoulder-length raven-black hair. My god, he was sex in a football uniform and cleats.

Congrats on that TD, Dallas, you and Ricky have honed the two-minute drill to perfection, Anna said from the seat next to her.

Dallas looked over at Anna, smiled, then got to his feet. His height was otherworldly. Exactly how tall Grace didn’t know, but at six-two, it was rare for her to feel petite.

Hey, Anna, thanks for the props. God, tell me I didn’t hurt you or the babies when I slipped, he asked when she got to her feet to hug him then stepped back.

I’m good, don’t you worry. Before you go back to your teammates, allow me to make the introduction official. Dallas McKay, this is Grace Daniels.

Kinda figured that out when I heard her whistle. Hi, Grace, nice to meet you, he said, accepting her offer for a handshake, his touch giving her butterflies despite the gloves, his gentle pull drawing her to her feet.

It’s a pleasure to meet you, too, she replied, grinning. Matter of fact, I’m thinking it’s time to retire my collection of baseball jerseys for one of yours.

What’s this? You don’t have a Dallas McKay jersey? he teased, releasing her hand to rest his own over his heart, making her laugh.

Sorry, no, but in my defense, I grew up playing baseball and softball, the latter of which got me into Maryland on a scholarship.

Nothing wrong with that. What position?

Catcher. Tended to be a line drive hitter, racked up RBIs.

Nice. Would love to learn more about it. Do you have a stadium pass? he asked, making a gesture in midair and Anna handed him a Sharpie.

I do, Grace said, jostling the football long enough to dig into the pocket of her winter coat and withdrawing a lanyard with a plastic card attached that would afford her access to the interwoven network behind the scenes of the stadium.

This should get you through security quickly. Any problems, Anna will know what to do, he assured, scrawling VIP and his name across the card in indelible marker.

Appreciate it, she replied, willing herself not to let the cameras catch her appreciating his fantastic ass as he turned toward someone on the field shouting his name.

Thank you for agreeing to meet with me tonight. Giving her his full attention again, something in his gaze shifted, the heat reflected stoking her awareness of him in a way that had nothing to do with the reason they were meeting in the first place.

Of course, already looking forward to it, she agreed, retaining the football and her pass as he withdrew, navigating the wall as easily as he’d scaled it the first time.

Whoa, Dallas was totally into you, Grace, Anna commented, her voice deliberately kept low. And, I’m thinking the feeling’s mutual, right?

Pulling the lanyard over her head, Grace straightened to her full height. I’ll keep that to myself, but I will say that man is more than a football player, he’s a demigod.

He’s mortal, my friend, Anna said. Let’s get out of here so we can talk privately.

Following Anna out of the family and VIP section, Grace marveled at the architecture that formed a nest. Further down a passageway, she discovered the intricacy of hallways and byways that existed behind the scenes. The impressive presence of security personnel was reassuring, especially after Anna’s husband’s playing days were ended by a man with a baseball bat.

A couple twists and turns later, Anna showed a security guard her stadium ID then gestured toward Grace’s pass bearing Dallas McKay’s autograph. Shortly, they made their way to the changing room shared by the team’s trio of mascots.

Who worked the crowd tonight? Grace asked, pausing outside the door.

Sarah, Ben, and Jon, Anna answered, then unlocked the door with her ID that doubled as a keycard. Don’t worry, they’ve a meeting with the cheerleaders so Kyran and Dallas will come here after the press conference.

Sounds good, I just hope I don’t let Dallas down, Grace admitted as Anna led the way inside a room large enough for six lockers, extra mascot costumes, an old recliner, and a bathroom with a shower.

You won’t. Besides, if I didn’t think he was one of the best guys on the planet, I’d never have suggested a blind date to introduce you two.

It’s not really a date, we’re just trying to throw off the nosy reporters.

Anna went over and took a seat in the recliner. The reason for the meet-up might’ve been a ruse, but something changed when he made a beeline for the stands. Usually, when he does that, it’s to give a ball or a pair of gloves to one of the foster kids he mentors.

Wow, good for him. Taking a second, she put the ball aside to take off her winter gear then sat down on the edge of a bench near one of the lockers.

Now that you’re comfortable, what are your impressions of Dallas McKay?

If I tell you, you’ll laugh, Grace replied.

If I laugh it won’t be at you, Grace. Come on, tell me.

He’s insanely handsome, taller than I am by a mile, and when he was in my lap, all I wanted was to snuggle up with him for hours. How crazy is that?

Not crazy at all considering he’s gotten your mind off of Phalen Maddox, Anna said.

I got over Phalen as soon as I realized his heart belonged to someone else. Besides, thanks to him, I’ve gained more clients and advanced to a black belt in taekwondo. I needed that push.

Now, there’s another thing you have in common with Dallas. He’s studied a variety of martial arts, Anna said, shrugging out of her winter coat and removing her gloves.

If that’s true, I may fall in love with him before we leave the stadium, Grace admitted.

If the attraction’s mutual, enjoy the chance to see if a blind date can become something more. Maybe you didn’t realize it, but Dallas looked at you as if you hung the moon and the stars.

Yeah, well, there’s a lot to look at, Grace murmured shyly.

Don’t think like that. When you do, it makes me want to chase down your sonofabitch ex and beat the hell outta him for making you doubt how pretty you are.

Normally, she’d agree, but Craig Wynthrop’s cruel words had hurt as much as a physical blow, especially as he’d managed to tap into her age-old insecurities for being awkwardly taller than everyone else around her. I’m sorry, Anna, you’re right. I’m sure Dallas is a great guy.

Anna got up and came over, offering a great big hug. He is, trust me.

I believe you, but unless he gives an opening, I’m going to remain professional. Have you heard from Tracey?

Not today, but given she’d found proof her ex was cheating, I think it’s best that she spends the winter in Florida with her mom.

Me, too, Anna, me, too. Glad for the change in subject, Grace settled in, her mind already replaying that spectacular catch, and it wasn’t the game winning TD that put the Alexandria Griffins in the hunt for the playoffs.

Dallas got out of the shower, wrapped a towel around his hips, grabbed his mesh toiletry kit, and hurried to the nearest sink. It took two tries to unzip the bag and pull out a comb, toothbrush, Crest, deodorant, shave gel, and his Gillette razor. Hell, he was nervous about meeting up with Grace Daniels, a private investigator who might be able to help him find his birth parents.

At his locker fifteen minutes later, he saw that an assistant must’ve taken his game uniform to the laundry and straightened his equipment. Grateful, he dressed in a pair of jeans, a black sweater, and boots, leaving his long brown leather coat on its hook until he was ready to leave.

Here you go, Kyran said to his left, handing over Dallas’s well-worn Stetson.

Thanks, Dallas said, putting it on his head despite his damp hair and shrugging into his coat, the pockets heavy with his iPhone, truck keys, and billfold. Any idea who cleaned up my cubicle?

I did. Figured it’d give you more time for a cooldown and a shower.

Appreciate it, Coach. Have you seen Ricky? He took a big hit out there tonight.

Trainers took care of him, he’s in the shower, Kyran replied, leaning back against a locker. You ready to meet Grace?

Already did, but you might’ve given me head’s up, Dallas said.

About what?

That she’s beautiful. If I’d had an inkling, I might not have tripped over my own two feet the moment we met. Worse, if I’d hurt her or Anna and the twins when I fell, I’d never forgive myself.

Anna’s texted a minute ago, she’s fine, the babies are very active. As for Grace, if I underplayed how pretty she is, it’s only because she’s like a sister to me.

Does that mean you’re going to go all big brother on me if I ask her out, and not just to talk about my case?

She’s single, you’re single, go for it. Just don’t hurt her. She’s been through hell with an ex-boyfriend and I’m not going to let it happen again.

Understood. Could you do me a favor if she says yes to the date?

Sure.

Stop by my house on your way home and let Max out?

Be glad to. Anna loves Max. Ready to go?

Yep, he said, the din of conversation catching his attention.

Around the locker room, teammates were still celebrating the last second win over the San Diego Marauders, some still coming out of the shower room or preparing for the weekend. Glad he played for a football league that featured Friday night games until the postseason, he was relieved to know he didn’t have to be anywhere until Monday morning.

Hey, Dallas, are you planning to meet the blonde from the stands? Ricky Weathers called out, coming out of the shower room with a towel about his waist, his walk was even, steady, with no telltale signs of pain after treatment with the trainers.

Better believe it, he admitted, proudly so. It was no accident that I asked her to hold that football for Caleb.

The locker room fell silent. Wow, lucky man. How’d you meet her?

Anna and I arranged it. Given Grace likes sports and martial arts, we thought the two would mix well, Kyran explained.

Explains it then, Ricky said, nodding, though he seemed disappointed not to have known of the plans beforehand.

Ricky, man, we’ll catch up Monday. In the meantime, if you need anything, you know how to reach me, Dallas said, certain he could trust his QB to keep his decision to find his birth parents confidential but he wasn’t willing to risk the news leaking to the press before he was ready.

Knowing he needed Grace’s help, he followed Kyran to the mascot locker room. By habit, Dallas shifted his coat as he waited for the QB coach to open things up with a keycard, his gaze landing on Grace and everything in him that was male locked in on everything about her that was female.

Next thing he knew, they were inside and he made a beeline for Grace. Gonna try this introduction again. I’m Dallas McKay, nice to meet you.

Umm, hi, nice to meet you again, Dallas. Two hot pink marks brightened Grace’s high cheekbones as she stood to her full height. The helluva it was, he’d always loved tall, leggy blondes that reminded him of ancient warrior goddesses and right then, she was his fantasy in the flesh. Hot damn!

Inching closer, he realized she still held the football, but it was her casual sweater, jeans, and hiking boots that made him realize that she was the real deal. Sorry to keep you waiting, hope it wasn’t too long.

No problem. Anna told me there’d be a little bit of a wait after a big win like tonight’s. Would you like your football back?

Actually, it’d be great if you’d hang on to it until I can give it to the kid it was intended for.

Sure, she insisted, her big blue eyes softening in concern. I’d also love to learn more about your work with foster children.

That you’re interested means a lot to me. Mind if we talk in private? he asked.

Not at all, she agreed, relaxing.

Anna, Kyran, can Grace and I have a minute alone?

We’ll be right outside the door, Kyran replied, leading his wife out to the hall, the door closing with a little click.

If you’d prefer the door to stay open, I’ll understand, he said to Grace, as he’d been taught to always give a woman an out if she wanted one.

I’m good, but if you’ve changed your mind about hiring me, I can recommend Phalen Maddox.

Nah, you’re the PI I want. I was wondering if you’d like to go out with me tonight? he asked, getting right to the crux of the issue.

Isn’t that what we’re doing, I mean, given the ruse and all?

No ruse, Grace. I happen to think you’re cute as hell.

Puppies and kittens are cute. I was the tallest girl in my class from the moment I hit puberty, with the exception of basketball players when I got to college. I’ve never been cute.

Bombshell then, he amended.

You’re insane, she said, laughing.

Made you laugh, he countered.

Yeah, you did. Here’s the thing, if hiring me is contingent upon my saying yes, you can take a hike, literally.

If you say no, we’ll go somewhere with Kyran and Anna as planned. If you say yes, there’s a roadhouse nearby. Friend of mine runs it, has great food, music, the works.

It took her a full minute to react, her gaze locking with his, her shyness revealing itself in the flush that stole down her pretty face and long, graceful neck. You really want to go out with me?

I liked you from the minute I saw you in the stands and thought you felt the same way about me. If I’m reading your signals wrong, my apologies.

You’re not reading anything wrong. I’m just a little stunned. I mean, you’re Dallas McKay, star wide receiver for the Alexandria Griffins. You can have any woman you want.

Being Dallas McKay doesn’t entitle me to anything or anyone, much less beautiful women. Come on, Grace, take a chance, go out with me.

She tilted her head to the left then smiled. Maybe it’s crazy, but I’d love to go out with you tonight. Just do me a favor, please? Don’t play games or make any promises you don’t intend to keep.

Step back, why the hell would you think I’d disrespect you like that?

You wouldn’t be the first guy to have second thoughts about being seen with me, she said softly, flushing even hotter. Either I’m too casual, too big, or too boring for anything more than a buddy or a plus-one for a special occasion.

Stunned, it took him a minute to put two and two together. Whoever disrespected you like that was an asshole. To me, you’re a goddess, pinky swear, he offered, extending his left hand, little finger extended.

Laughing heartily, she accepted by hooking her pinky with his, the two shaking on it. Know what? I like you, Dallas McKay.

I like you, too, Grace Daniels. You have a purse or anything?

Just a neck wallet for my phone, ID, and my guest pass, she said, flipping it around with her free hand to show the sleeve was big enough to handle her iPhone.

Yeah, I tend to keep it simple, too. Guess it comes from growing up on a horse farm in Austin.

Her sapphire eyes went wide as saucers. Wow, I’d thought I’d noticed a Texan drawl. I’d love to see the ranch sometime, I mean, if we become more than friends.

I sure hope so. Do you ride?

Not only do I ride, I belonged to the Maryland Jousting Association and was champion four years running.

Well, then, I think we’re gonna get along just fine. Soon as I finish my house, I’m planning on rescuing some horses and giving riding lessons to the foster kids I mentor.

Careful, I might fall in love with you before we get to the parking lot. And, please, God, forget I just said that, she said in a rush.

Speak your piece, baby, I’d rather know what you’re thinking than guess and get it wrong. Ready to go?

I am, she said, withdrawing some, the football still in her left hand. Who’s the ball for, anyway?

His name’s Caleb. He was supposed to come to the game tonight but got the flu. Figured, a signed ball and a jersey will go a long way to cheering him up.

That’s wonderful. If nothing else comes of tonight, please let me know how Caleb’s doing? I specialize in helping local non-profit adoption and DCF services with background checks on prospective foster and adoptive parents.

Where have you been all my life, Gracie? he asked, meaning it.

Ah, let’s see, I grew up near Baltimore. Vacationed in Ocean City, Maryland with my family every summer. After graduating from Maryland and getting my PI license, I lived in Towson, not far from Anna and our friend Tracey. Moved into Kyran and Anna’s apartment a few months ago. How’s that for starters?

Pretty good. I’d love to learn more later. Joining her at the bench where she’d laid her winter coat, he offered to assist her into it. Accepting, she let him fasten the zipper and she flushed when his hands fell away.

Thanks, she whispered.

You’re welcome. Did I overstep?

No, no, it’s not that. Because I’m so tall, it’s rare for men to treat me as if I matter to them. Does that make sense?

Gracie, I’m six-seven. Meeting you is like kismet or something and I aim to prove it to you.

Kismet? Really?

Really. Growing up, I was this shy, skinny kid who got shoved into lockers more times than I could count. And, I’ve got the feeling you’ve experienced bullying, too.

You were bullied? No way, she declared.

Yes, way. Some kids can be mean, especially when they’re as insecure as everyone else is. And, when someone thinks they’re not worthy of friends because they’ve a chip on their shoulder the size of Gibraltar, it can make them a target.

Don’t say that. Gracie charged, coming right up to him, her eyes on his. Don’t ever think you’re not worthy.

Aww, I know that now, but it took some time to figure it out.

Can I ask what changed?

My parents enrolled me in martial arts and sports, everything from football to baseball and lacrosse. After that, I rarely got into a fight unless I was defending myself or someone I cared about.

Well, I happen to think you’re one of the good guys. If I’m proven wrong about that, I’ll kick your ass six ways to Sunday and twice before dinner.

Now that sounds like something Phalen Maddox would say, he admitted.

Then you know him well? she asked, drawing back as suddenly as she’d come forward.

Sure, I’d met him a few times before he came to the hospital when Kyran was attacked. We’ve kept in touch since. Why?

We’re friends and he’s not only helped me with a few cases, he’s the reason I recently earned my black belt in taekwondo. Matter of fact, next time he’s visiting Kyran and Anna, he’s going to help me find a new dojo to join so that I can progress in my training. Is that a problem?

Is this something the asshole who made you doubt yourself would’ve had a problem with?

She nodded, keeping her focus on the gray-tiled floor. And, she might as well have kneed him in the balls to have her think he’d attempt to control her like that.

Look at me, he urged, waiting until she met him eye-to-eye. The last thing I’ll do is dictate who your friends are or how many degrees of black belt you earn. What I would like is the chance to spar with you sometime.

Oh yeah? she asked, flushing again but she held his gaze.

Yeah, he said, offering his hand. Here’s the deal, if you decide all we are is friends, I’ll respect your decision and leave it at that.

I’ll offer the same in kind, pinky swear, she replied, crooking her left pinky finger. Pleased, he hooked his finger about hers, shook, then gave a gentle tug, bringing her as close as the football between their bodies allowed.

I do have a question, he admitted. Do you like dogs?

I love dogs! she insisted.

Big dogs, Max is a three-year-old Great Dane that I’d rescued when he was a puppy.

Oh my god, I can’t wait to meet him! I bet he’s a sweetie.

He’s my best buddy. Listen, can you hold this for me, too? Removing his brown Stetson, he set it on her head, thinking she was the prettiest thing in a cowboy hat that he’d ever seen.

I’m not much of a hat person, she said, but she didn’t take it off.

You look cute, he complimented, meaning it.

Stop that, she chuckled, smiling softly.

Glad to see her smile, he kept hold of her hand, liking the way her fingers knotted with his, and led her to the door. For the record, it’s cold out, thought the hat would keep you warm.

Grace glanced up at him, her flush as hot as a Texan summer. Twice, he was sure she was going to say what was on her mind, only to catch her lower lip between her teeth to nibble. Damn, just like that, he felt like a teenager who had to use his coat to cover his fly in the middle of algebra class.

What were you thinking just now?

Best not to say. You’ll laugh at me.

Can’t promise not to laugh if something’s funny, but it’d never be at you.

Alright, I was thinking there are all kinds of ways for us to stay warm—with or without the hat on.

Well, just so you know, I like the way you think, Gracie. Is it okay if I call you that?

I like it, it makes me feel all girly.

Let’s go and see if we can’t get to the point that the hat isn’t needed to keep either of us warm.

Sounds promising, Dallas. With that, Grace’s beautiful eyes lit up like fireworks, her wistful grin sending his pulses racing like a jack rabbit. Freeing her only to place his hand at the small of her back, he opened the door and they stepped out into the hallway.

Everything alright? Kyran asked.

Yep, we’ll follow you to the parking lot and head out from there, Dallas said.

You don’t need our help? Anna asked.

We’re good. Go home, you both look about to drop. Anna, I’ll check in with you tomorrow.

You’d better, Grace. By the way, I like the Stetson on you.

You know, me, too. Grace lifted her head some, the brim of the hat brushing his nose and Dallas loved that she was tall enough to do that.

With Kyran and Anna leading the way, he guided Grace down the hall, enjoying the way she tucked in nice and close and didn’t seem in a hurry to draw away.

Yeah, it was safe to say Grace Daniels rocked his world and he was just fine with that.

Chapter Two

Grace couldn’t believe it. She was going on a date with Dallas McKay.

It didn’t matter that he was one of the most recognizable athletes in the world. Or, that he had beautifully handsome features sculpted by gods, and magnificent straight black hair that fell to his shoulders. What mattered to her was the fact that he was a good, decent man still haunted by the uncertainty he’d felt as a little kid.

She could relate to that. Being uncommonly tall, endowed with huge breasts, and an overbite that’d needed correction with braces had made her fodder for gossip, bullying, and gross things left in her locker for the better part of her teenage years.

In college, things got better but a broken heart led to a decision to have breast reduction surgery and she promised herself that she’d never again go through such extremes to fit in or feel better about herself. Since then, her dating life had been intermittent, at best, until she met Craig Wynthrop, her boss’s son, and it damn near cost her everything!

Grace, you alright? Dallas asked softly, bending his head to speak into her ear, the hat on her head knocked askew.

Yes, sorry, went on a trip down bad memory lane, she admitted, knowing it wasn’t fair to judge Dallas against anyone she’d known or dated in the past.

Maybe when we’re at dinner, you’ll tell me about it? I’m an excellent listener, or so my baby sister says.

I’d like that. You’ve a sister?

Three, and I’m one of four boys, all of us adopted.

I should’ve guessed you’d have a Texan-sized family. Who’s the oldest?

I am, but I was eight when I went to live with the McKays and they’d already adopted my brother and sister, who were six and four at the time. And, I tell you what, birthdays and gotcha days are huge occasions in our family.

Your parents sound wonderful. That’s something we have in common, you know, she said.

What’s that, a big family?

A large family with two adoptive siblings. The oldest is Amy, the youngest, Luke, just graduated from college in with honors, by the way because he was counted out by many and he wanted to prove them wrong.

Why would anyone count him out? Dallas asked.

He’s a person with Down syndrome. He’s also an amazing baker and has decided to start his own business and my parents helped him find a place where he can not only bake, but hire other bakers, staffers, the works.

Good for Luke. Would love to be there when the bakery opens.

He’d be over the moon if you were there, especially since he’s a football fan. If I may? Kyran mentioned that you’d signed with the Griffins for five years.

Yep, still have three left.

Do you ever worry about getting hurt or afraid?

Not on the field, but that’s more because I can’t hesitate to commit to a play or a defensive back is gonna take me out or force an interception. Truth is, at thirty-two, I’ve been lucky regarding injuries but someday I want to settle down and have kids of my own so I’ll likely retire when my contract’s up.

I’ve the feeling you’d be a great dad. What made you decide to be a professional football player?

Dallas’s hand at the small of her back tightened some, revealing how long his fingers were. It really was nice