The Prince and the Player

“Excellent. I’ll pick you up at eight. You don’t have to gamble, although I usually play a few hands of Baccarat.”

“Sure.” I feel slightly nauseated as we disconnect.

I’m not sure what will happen when I see Cal again, and on top of everything, we’ll be at a casino. Is it okay if I know how to gamble? Should I pretend to be clueless?

Picking up my phone, I shoot Reggie a text. Casino date tonight is a go. Can I know how to gamble?

Carrying my phone with me, I decide to check on my little sister. I have to pause in shock at the enormous bouquet of red roses now filling the entryway. The card is gone, so I have no idea what he wrote to her.

“Damn,” I hiss under my breath, shaking my head as I head to her door. I shouldn’t be miffed. So he bought her a florist’s worth of flowers. He did offer to call me a whole doctor for an ankle sprain.

I’m just about to knock when Reggie’s reply vibrates my phone. Your call, although probably not wise to be a card shark. Don’t be shy around CPR. Make your move. I’m counting on you.

“My move,” I mutter. “My move is falling for the wrong prince.”

Ava doesn’t answer when I knock, so I turn the doorknob slowly and peek in. She’s dressed in one of the designer outfits Reggie bought us—tight white capris that show off her long, slim legs, with a flared black sleeveless jacket-top. She’s brushing her hair a little too hard. Her pilfered aquarium bracelet shakes and sparkles on her wrist.

“Going out?” I walk over to her and put my hand on the brush.

Her rapid movements still, and our eyes meet in the mirror. “I need something to wear tonight. The casino is very formal.”

“I’m sure Reggie’s got it covered.”

“Then I want to shop.” She begins brushing again, flipping her long, dark hair over her shoulder.

“Everything okay?” I’ve never seen her this way. “You know, it’s possible I haven’t blown this job. Reggie thinks I still have a chance.” As much as I hate it.

“You kissed Rowan, and you slept with Cal?” Her question is clipped, and embarrassment tightens my stomach. Of course, she’s mad.

“You’re right,” I say, looking down. “I have to get my head in the game. I have to stop screwing around and focus on the prize.”

She puts the brush down and faces me. She’s a little softer, but I can tell she’s still not happy. “I think you’re doing the best you can. Don’t be so hard on yourself.” She picks up her clutch. “I’ll be back after lunch.”

“Really? We’re not going to do anything together?”

“We’ll catch up tomorrow. Or tonight at the casino. Mind if I take the card?”

“Of course not. The money is for both of us.”

She’s gone before I can say another word, and I look at myself in the mirror. My hair is still a rat’s nest from hiding under the covers, so I take the brush and pull it through until it’s smooth. Then I walk slowly to the tower of roses, pulling one from the throng and pressing it to my nose. Sweet perfume.

I’m back on with Rowan, but that only solves one problem. How do I pretend to care about the crown prince, when all my thoughts keep flying to his brother? How can I pretend like nothing happened last night?

I drop onto the soft green sofa and look out at the turquoise blue waters, fighting the memories of last night trying to filter into my brain. I’ve never failed at a job before, and I’m not going to start now. I won’t choke in the biggest game of my career. I’ll regroup and see this one through to the end.

Preference

Rowan

Cal is unusually quiet on the limo ride into town. We’re both wearing requisite black tuxedos, and while his hair is combed back and smooth, mine is all around my ears.

“I should have had a hair cut today,” I grumble, tilting the scotch back and forth in my crystal tumbler.

He continues looking out the window, not answering. His elbow is bent, and he’s pinching his top lip. It’s one of his tells.

“You’re going to have to loosen up if you expect to win tonight. I can tell you’ve been dealt a tough hand.”

That brings him around. “What?”