Page 25 of Risky Match (Royal Spies #1)

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J osh and Natalie just pulled the ultimate cock block—without even realizing it. I’m not sure if I’m relieved or upset—probably both. Mentally, I know the last thing I need is to start something with the princess, but the rest of my body strongly disagrees.

It could never work between us. We come from completely different worlds. I grew up in one of the few poorer areas of Surrey. My father managed a small hotel, and my mother worked in a restaurant. Bri, on the other hand, grew up in a freaking palace.

She trained with the best tennis players and coaches from a young age.

I only learned because the owner of my dad’s hotel invited me to join his kids on the court after school.

I fell in love with the game almost instantly, even if I didn’t exactly fit in with my secondhand clothes and worn-out sneakers.

Luckily, they had a coach and kept inviting me back, despite my situation.

Eventually, the coach noticed how quickly I was improving. He suggested to my dad that I apply to a local tennis organization that supports children who can’t afford to pursue the sport. I applied, and they selected me.

Thanks to that opportunity, my family’s sacrifices, and years of intense training, I was able to go on tour when I turned eighteen. That was the start of what’s turned into a successful career.

Ironically, that same path from poverty to professional tennis also led to meeting Bri. Every time I’m in her presence, I’m drawn to her. I crave her. I want to hold her. I just want her.

If only it were possible. Even if it were, it wouldn’t make sense. We had it right two years ago. It was one wonderful night not meant to be repeated.

It’s time to let my desire for her go.