Her Wilde Marines (Wilde, Nevada 4)

“Are we? I feel lucky.” He dealt the cards, giving her three Kings but Adam three Aces.

“How about we raise the stakes, boys?” She’d taken the bait just like he thought she would.

He was having the time of his life. “What did you have in mind, sweetheart?”

“Two pieces for this hand.”

“She must have a killer hand if she’s wanting to raise.” Adam was laying it on thick, and it was working perfectly. “I may be making a big mistake, but how about three?”

“Too rich for my blood.” He folded his hand.

Her eyes narrowed. “Really, Adam? I can tell you’re bluffing.”

“Call or fold, Em.”

“I call. Read ’em and weep, boys. Three Kings. Adam, take off your shirt.”

“A little premature, baby.” His brother placed his winning hand on the table. “Three Aces beats Kings, don’t they?”

She shook her head. “I can handle one lucky hand. I’ve got both shoes and my ring. I’m still in good shape.”

“You’ve got the best shape I’ve ever seen.” Bane touched her cheek.

“And we’re going to get to see more of it, too,” Adam teased. “Take off your shoes and ring, Em. I won.”

She obeyed beautifully, placing her discarded items on the floor next to her. “Whose deal is it?”

“My turn.” Adam shuffled the cards.

After his brother dealt, Bane looked at his hand. A Jack-high flush. He wasn’t sure what Adam had given Emma, but he knew it had to be a lesser hand than his. “I’m thinking we should up the stakes again.”

She looked at her hand and nodded. “Tough guy, huh?”

“You bet, sweetheart.”

“Well, my luck disappeared.” Adam pushed his cards to the side. “I fold.”

“I warn you, Bane. I’ve got you beat.” She placed her cards face down in front of her. “Let’s see what you’re made of. Four pieces, soldier. What do you think about that?”

“Are you so sure, Em?” He winked. “How about five?”

“Mmm. I count a pair of socks, a shirt, jeans, and a watch. That’ll leave you in your underwear.”

“Honey, I go commando.”

Her eyes widened and her cheeks turned a pretty shade of pink.

“I count on you your earrings, your blouse, and your slacks. That’ll leave you in your bra and panties, if you dare to call.”

She picked up her cards from the table and stared long and hard at them. “Five? Okay. I call.”

“I hope this is the best hand.” He sighed, adding to her suffering.

She squirmed and leaned forward. “Well?”

“I might’ve made a big mistake.”

“Just show your cards. Please.”