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“How many men do you think appreciate a woman beating them at games?” Richard asked mockingly.

Catherine stared at him blankly. “You can’t be serious.”

“Oh, but I am,” he stated matter of factly.

“But you took it in stride.”

“Because I am not interested in you.”

That stung, but she pushed the feeling aside.

“What do I do then?”

“Lose a few games and ask for help,” he said like it was the most obvious thing in the world. “Men, throughout history, have always loved a damsel in distress.”

“That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard.”

“Is it?” He quirked an eyebrow at her. “Humor me for a few games and see.”

“Alright.”

“Let’s make a wager.” His smile was cat-like, chilling her to the bone. “If my plan works, you’ll owe me a favor I can collect any time and anywhere I want.”

“And if it doesn’t?” She smirked at him.

“The same applies to you.”

“This should be fun.”

He walked away from her with a confident, lazy gait she wished she could match. Confusion clouded her mind, and she wondered if perhaps she should test his theory.

What did she really have to lose except her pride?

Besides, when his plandidn’twork, she planned to use that favor against him so he’d regret making a fool out of her.

The next round of cards was shared, and for this round, Lord Hightown and Lord Grainsbury were at her table. Richard was playing with new partners but could see her clearly from where he was sitting.

He nodded at her and focused as his companions called for his attention. One of the ladies at his table placed her hand on his arm, showing him her cards, and he gave Catherine a look as if to say,See what I told you?She rolled her eyes and attempted the same move.

“Lord Hightown,” she asked softly, “would you mind showing me how to play the game?”

Lord Hightown stared at her in surprise and then gave a confident grin that indicated his ego was being stroked.

“Miss Burlow, it would be my pleasure,” he said and then went on to explain the game slowly as if she were a child, even though he ended up losing a few rounds.

Catherine lost a few as well but got fed up with his encouragement quickly.

Is this really what it takes to trap a husband? God, women really do suffer a lot.

She won a round and then turned to him, thanking him for his guidance.

He literally puffed out his chest. “I am glad I could tutor you.” He smiled.

She nodded and blushed as his stare became intense—he looked taken with her.

“Tell me, Miss Burlow,” he said as the cards were being shuffled. “If you are not otherwise engaged tomorrow, I’d like to take you on a ride at Hyde Park.”

Catherine was taken aback by that. Richard’s plan had actually worked?