The King (Gentlemen Rogues 2)

“Ugh. That doesn't help Tabs.”

She laughed. “Look, I’m mostly teasing. But enjoy it. Experience what it's like to actually be in a relationship. Think of it like a test run, minus all the ghosting and mediocre boys.”

I hung up with her on a laugh and forced myself to climb out of bed. I couldn't hide in there all day. I was going to have to face him. And it would probably be best if I acted like I wasn't one giant walking hormone when it came to him.

* * *

Saffron

"Are you okay?"

Something was off with Lock. When I’d come down for breakfast, he’d been uncharacteristically quiet.

Lock watched me carefully. “Yeah."

"Are you sure? You seem off." He looked fine, but he was quieter than usual.

“I'm good. You good?"

Last night had been intense. I wasn't ashamed to say I’d had two cold showers since he’d kissed me. Today, he was acting off. I needed to figure out what the hell it was, because tonight was a party that Massimo and Graciella had invited us to. I needed him on his game. But first, I needed to get my brother up to speed.”Totally good.”

There was something like resigned reproach in his eyes when he said, “Good. Let’s go.”

An hour later, we were meeting in the Royal Elite conference room. Jax started the meeting a little late with an apology. "Sorry we're late, everyone. Ariel had a last-minute thing up at the castle."

Zia nodded and quickly dialed London. Gabe answered with his typical, "Webb."

I almost had to laugh at my brother. He was so predictable. “Gabe, it's us."

There was a part of me that thought there was some warmth in his voice, but I could never tell."Saff, you all right?"

“Yeah, we're fine. We're just calling in for a status check."

"Tonight's the party, right?" he asked.

“Yes, the plan is we'll go to the party, find a reason to get into the bedroom, and plant a bug in the cupboard. Lock will take care of the balconies, providing we have access. Back up will also be Jax and Zia. Saint will be our waiter. He’ll give us our kill code if we have to abort. The ultimate goal is to get into the library."

Gabe listened to me silently. “Don't take any unnecessary risks. This is just surveillance."

I clenched my jaw, trying to dissipate the annoyance at his admonishment. “I understand the assignment, Gabe."

“Good. Anything we get, make sure we've got photos on everyone."

"We're on it. We'll have additional help tonight too. Queen Penny and Ariel will be in attendance."

"Make sure the whole team knows the abort code."

“I will make that determination in the field," I said through clenched teeth.

Jesus, even from thousands of miles away, he was still trying to control exactly how I managed everything.

"How is Lock managing?"

I tried not to grumble. And despite his surly demeanor today, he was helpful by jumping in.

"Lock is fine. Listening to Saff. Staying the hell out of trouble. Mostly lending my name and trying to be a billionaire dick so I can play the part."

"Massimo's believing it? You two are old chums?"