Page 24 of Reckless Chance

“It was an exciting evening. I still can’t believe Evan proposed,” she says, admiring the sparkling green ring on her left hand.

“Where’s your security guard?” I ask.

“Standing outside. I tried to leave him behind completely but failed. The compromise is that he’ll stay outside. I mean, how can we talk if he’s listening?”

“Exactly. Now let’s get our fingers and toes done.”

An attendant shows us to the women’s locker room and an adjacent relaxation room where we stretch out on cushy lounge chairs while we wait.

Between sips of cucumber-infused water, I ask, “Does the engagement change your plans to be the guest chef here?”

“Of course not. Why would it?”

“I’m not up on royal protocol.”

“It doesn’t matter. I won’t do anything to embarrass the royal family, but Evan and I aren’t married yet. I’m not giving up the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream. Thankfully, Evan doesn’t expect me to.”

“That’s a relief. Do you know when the wedding will be?”

“We’ll talk with his parents about the timing. I’m hoping you’ll be my maid of honor.”

“Of course, I will. Is the wedding going to be in Catalinius or San Diego?” I don’t mention that if the wedding is in the next few weeks, I’ll technically be hermatronof honor. That’s unlikely, I think, as I absentmindedly press my fingers against the fabric hiding the wedding ring that’s hanging on the chain around my neck.

“The wedding will be in Catalinius. Princes must marry at the royal church.”

“This is all extraordinary.”

“It’s still unreal to me too. Talking about unexpected surprises, what’s going on between you and Sean? You were pretty cozy last night.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I knew it.”

“Knew what?”

“You’re pulling on your earlobe. You only do that when you’re trying to hide something from me. Spill. Now.”

“It’s nothing. We hooked up when I was here earlier this year. It was nothing more than a fun weekend.”

“Uh-huh. You’re hooking up again now, aren’t you?

“Maybe.”

“There’s nomaybeabout it. I need details.”

“We’re having a little fun. I’ve been here a couple of days. We worked together planning your party. One thing led to another, and we decided to enjoy each other’s company while I’m in town. It ends when I leave. No strings.”

“If you let him see the serious side of you, it may turn into more.”

“You know I’m not looking for more. Guys I date only get the fun-loving version of me. The serious side is left for work.”

I’ve already fucked that up. Not only did I marry Sean, but also, I let him see the serious me. When we found out Mr. Brentwood was dead, I instinctively went into protective mode to look after Sean’s business. Why did I do that? I’ve never been protective of other guys I’ve hooked up with.

“I know, you don’t mix business and pleasure. No one sees both sides, except me.”

“You know me better than anyone. We’ve helped each other through tough times during and after law school.”

“Maybe it’s time to let people, or at least Sean, know you’re more than a fun-loving party girl. Not all men are your dad.”