Page 99 of Risky Match
“You’re gorgeous, Bri.”
“Thank you.”
“These are for you. I’m told you love purple roses.”
She lifts her eyebrows in surprise. “I do, but who told you that?”
I’m hoping she’ll think it was Erin. I’m not ready to share that Adrian and Stephen helped me with the plans for tonight.
“Does it matter?” I ask casually.
She taps her cheek with her index finger, considering my question. “Probably not, but who knows. So many people have lied to me—either directly or through omission—I’m having trouble deciphering what matters.”
“I understand. Why don’t we call a truce? Let’s promise not to lie to each other about anything? Can we do that?”
“Does this mean we’re speaking again?”
“I hope so. I owe you an apology. I’m sorry for all the terrible things I said. I never truly believed them. I just felt tricked and manipulated. Like you, I didn’t know whom to trust and lashed out at everyone. I’ll never forgive myself for how I treated you.”
“The things you said about me were incredibly hurtful. But I know I hurt you as well. I’m sorry for that. I like your idea of a truce.”
The tension between us eases. A calmness washes over her face that I suspect mirrors mine.
“Excellent. I’m hoping you’ll eventually be able to forgive me. Tonight, let’s enjoy our well-earned invitations. How does that sound?”
“Yes. Let’s celebrate. But at some point, I’d like to talk more.”
“Me too.”
Taking her hand, I lead her down the stairs and out to the waiting car. The fact she didn’t pull away gives me a smidgeon of hope.
The short ride to the dinner starts out a little awkward, but gradually we’re talking, laughing, and smiling. The occasionaltouch of our knees and brush of our hands gives me confidence that my plan could actually work.
As we approach the venue, a spectacular display of lights marks the entrance. A red carpet lines the walkway where dozens of photographers stand behind a rope vying for the best angles.
While we wait for the cars in front of us to unload passengers, Bri turns to me. Her eyes are moist. ”Blake, thank you for playing mixed doubles with me. I’ll never forget that you made my dream come true. And for us to walk in as champions tonight...It’s more than I could’ve imagined. I’ll be forever grateful no matter what happens...”
She doesn’t finish her thought. This is an emotional night for both of us.
“But for you, I might not even be alive, much less a champion. I’m the one who is grateful. Again, I apologize for being such a wanker. Shite. I probably shouldn’t use that language when talking with a princess. Can I pre-apologize for all future times I put my foot in my mouth?”
She laughs. “Just avoid it around my parents or in formal settings around my brothers. Even if they didn’t really mind, Xander and Evan would give you a hard time. Otherwise, no need to apologize.”
My minorfaux paslightened the mood.
”That’s a relief.”
Walking into the ballroom, it’s as if I’m seeing the Champions Dinner for the first time. Sure, the décor changes every year, but it always seems about the same to me. However, tonight the lights shine brighter, the music is happier, and the words of congratulation ring true.
I’m not surprised when people sympathize about the poisoning incident. Instead of telling me that I’ll have another chance next year, they tell me how proud they are that I returnedto play and made the UK proud. I point out that Princess Brianna was the key to our success because of her skillful doubles play. They nod, patting me on the back.
We’re both glowing and animated as we relive various portions of matches with each new group that stops us. For the first time, I’m happy to be here. It’s not only because we won, but also because Bri is by my side.
Whether it’s our hands touching, my hand on her back, or my arm around her shoulder, I can’t help touching her. The few moments when we’re apart, I feel lost.
Eventually, Bri taps me on the shoulder, whispering, “Would you mind if we find our table? I’d like to check on my parents.”
“Good idea. My parents and our coaches should be there too.”
