Page 42 of Risky Match
The paper is folded into a square about the size of ... oh, no! The missing denarius coin would fit perfectly within the square of paper.
This would be the perfect way to sneak the coin across the border. It wouldn’t show up on an X-ray at an airport because the base is metal. And if someone lifted the trophy, the paper would prevent the coin from making noise rattling around in the base. No one would ever notice it.
My stomach sinks as I unfold the paper. I’ve known Blake was a suspect, but I’ve inwardly hoped there’s another explanation. Now, for the first time, I’m forced to seriously consider that Blake may be involved. Does this mean his coach is also part of the smuggling?
Nothing is wrapped inside the paper, but there is writing on it. I quickly read the note. It says:
Stay the course. It will keep paying off.
As I’m contemplating the note’s meaning, my phone vibrates in my pocket. It’s my alarm signaling it’s time to head over to the Wimbledon grounds to watch Blake’s match.
I quickly snap a photo of the writing and of the bottom of the trophy. Not wanting Blake to notice anyone found the hiding place, I stuff the paper back into the hollow base, pressing the felt into place. Returning the trophy to its place on the dresser, I take another look around the room to make sure there’s no evidence of my visit.
Reassured that Blake will never suspect I’ve been here, I peer out the door freezing when a pair of eyes lock onto mine. I let out of sigh of relief when I realize they belong to Erin. She gives me a nod.
As we meet in the hallway between rooms, I whisper, “You gave me a scare.”
“We’re the only ones here. Blake’s team left for his match, and Fausto is at the market. I was looking for you because it’s time to leave.”
“I know. Let me grab my things.”
“Okay. I assume I don’t need to know why you were in Blake’s room.”
“You’re right.”
“Understood. But if I can help, you know I’m here,” she says, following me into my room.
I pick up my Louis Vuitton purse as I say, “It’s frustrating not to be able to share details of my mission with you. At the next opportunity, I’m going to revisit the edict that I can’t. As my missions become more complex, it doesn’t make sense to keep you in the dark. But I’ve taken an oath that I must uphold. For now, this is how it must be.”
“I admire what you’re doing, so don’t worry about me. We’ll make this work. My only concern is keeping you safe. Let’s hurry though. You don’t want to miss Blake’s match.”
“You’re right. Let’s go.”
Entering the Centre Court stands,I find my seat while Erin locates a nearby vantage point where she can keep an eye on the crowd.
The match just started, but Blake is already dominating his opponent. For me, it’s an excellent chance to study Blake’s game, spot patterns, and figure out how to adapt for doubles with him.
Before long, I’m spending less time evaluating Blake’s game and more time staring at him. Everything about Blake makes me hunger for a repeat of two years ago. The sweat dripping from his brow reminds me of the heat between us that night. When he flexes his forearms to serve and his biceps bulge, I almost swoon. I can make out every defined muscle in his legs as he lunges for balls with outstretched arms. I could use another drink of that man.
When the game ends, I scan the Royal Box. Stephen is wearing a purple tie—our signal to meet. He catches my eye and nods. I was going to text him the photos, but talking in-person is even better.
As play resumes, I smile watching Blake drill the ball across the net and past his opponent. He’s brilliant.
It’s hard watching him shoulder so much weight. Winning this tournament could change his life. A loss may destroy him. The stress is impacting more than just his tennis. He’s taking it out on everyone around him. He was in a better place when we first met—even after losing Wimbledon. Now he’s different. Sure, there are moments when the charming guy I first met makes an appearance, but those are rare.
It makes me wonder whether having someone special in his life would fill the void for him. Would that make the losses more bearable? With the chemistry sizzling between us, I wouldn’t mind finding out. My desires go beyond a mere wish for another night with him.
He’s one of the few men who doesn’t seem to care that I’m a princess. He’s not pushing me to do anything for him. He has enough of his own money not to need mine. And he agreed to play doubles with me despite his concerns that it would hurt his chances of winning.
No, he’s likely only tolerating the doubles matches for the money. He can’t afford to lose his contract with the sponsor. He has plenty of money though. He could afford to lose the sponsor or change sponsors.
If only he weren’t involved in this international drama, I’d be tempted to rethink my stance on what could be between us.
I sigh. Again, we’ve met at the wrong time. I’m not the one who can help him, and we can’t be a couple. If he’s involved in the smuggling, he has even more to worry about. I wonder whether that’s the difference in him between two years ago and now. If guilt or fear of being caught is hanging over his head in addition to the pressure to win, that would explain his attitude and behavior.
No wonder he hired Natalie. I’m not sure a sports psychologist can fix all his problems though.
I’m sad thinking about what may lie ahead for Blake, but the cheering crowd returns my focus to the present. Blake swiftly closes out the match with an easy win.
