Page 98 of Risky Match
“Understood.”
This isn’t going to be easy, but a plan is quickly forming in my head. I need to hurry and set the plan into motion. The first step is to explain it to Adrian.
34
BLAKE
Yesterday, I quickly shared my plan with Prince Adrian as we walked back inside from the balcony. He relayed word to Prince Stephen. I didn’t want to scare Bri off with a sudden about-face in my attitude toward her, but Ididwant her to see my anger was gone. The princes helped by drawing me into a conversation with her.
Later, when we arrived home, I cornered Erin and Fausto to explain their part in my plan. At first, they were hesitant to help after hearing about my fallout with Bri, but eventually, I convinced them.
As planned, this morning Erin ensured Bri arrived in the kitchen at 9:00 a.m. for breakfast.
Ten minutes after I heard them go downstairs, I sneak down the steps and pause outside the kitchen doorway where Bri can’t see me. She’s sitting on a tall barstool at the island.
She’s beautiful even with the dark circles under her sad eyes. How did I ever believe what we shared wasn’t real? Neither of us would be this miserable if it hadn’t meant something.
I’ll make this right. I don’t want to imagine life without her.
After a couple of minutes, I walk into the kitchen and stop at the side of the island, offering a cheery, “Good morning,everyone. Fausto, those crepes look amazing. It’s too bad I have to meet my parents for breakfast today.”
At my request, Fausto made Bri’s favorite Nutella and fresh strawberry crepes. I’m hoping they will brighten her mood.
Fausto and Erin return my greeting. I almost laugh, remembering how Fausto spent two weeks pretending not to speak English. No wonder Bri was so mad when I accused Fausto of poisoning me. He understood my entire tirade. Fortunately, he’s the forgiving type. We’ve worked things out.
That’s not the case with Bri though. I catch her watching me from the corner of her eye, but she doesn’t speak to me. She probably assumes I don’t want to talk to her. I’d also bet that she’s still mad at me for all the horrible things I said.
That’s why my goal this morning is simple. If I can convince her to do one thing, it will be a success. I do my best to hide my nerves as I smile and ask, “Bri, would you be willing to ride with me to the dinner tonight?”
She scrunches her eyes and tilts her head, studying my face. I’m not sure if she thinks I’ve lost my mind or that I have a sinister plan for revenge. That’s not good. I don’t know what to say to make it better, so I remain silent, waiting for her response.
She turns back to her crepes. “That’s not necessary. We can each arrive with our own parents.”
My smile falters. “Wecould, but my parents were invited to go with yours if you ride with me. It would be incredibly special for my parents to arrive at the dinner with royalty. I know I’m asking a lot, but would you do it for them?”
Her eyes soften. “Of course. I didn’t realize the situation. I wouldn’t want to disappoint your parents.”
Goal accomplished. I fight the urge to high-five Erin and Fausto. I’ll thank them later.
“Bri, you don’t know how much they will appreciate this. Thank you.”
“Your parents are wonderful and so kind. I’m happy to do it for them.” She gives me the first hint of a smile I’ve seen this morning. It’s a start. We’re also talking in full sentences, which gives me a little hope.
“I’m off to meet my parents for breakfast. I’ll see everyone later.”
I quickly leave the kitchen to work on the rest of my plan.
Tonight is the Wimbledon Champions Dinner. This year, Bri and I are attending as winners—not the singles champions, but winners all the same. If I’m lucky, I’ll win even more tonight. It’s a longshot, but I’m giving it my all.
I spend the rest of the day double-checking the arrangements for this evening. But with each passing hour, more doubt creeps in. What if my plan isn’t grand enough? What if nothing I do will be? I have to press on. Living without Bri can’t be my fate.
This isthe first time I’ve happily put on my tuxedo for the Champions Dinner. Bri and I earned our spots this year, so it feels different. Tonight will also be a major turning point in my life—either for the better or worse, depending on what happens with Bri.
As I step into the hallway with a bouquet of purple and white flowers for her, Bri’s door opens.
She takes my breath away. Her mahogany hair drapes over her shoulders. The short, purple satin cocktail dress hugs her figure, showing off her long legs to perfection.
Her lips turn upwards as she gives my tux-clad body a slow perusal. Then she suddenly blanks her face as if remembering we’re still at odds. Hopefully, that will end shortly.
