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“Pull the ruler out of your ass, brother.” Ari stands. “We’re not breaking any rules.”
“I didn’t say you were,” he replies with an even tone.
“Whatever.”
Fausto joins the group and sighs. “I never let her out of my sight.”
“I know,” Enzo says with a clipped tone.
“As much fun as this awkward conversation is, I’m gonna skedaddle and let you work out the family drama.” I grab my purse off the bar. “Thanks for the drink, Ari.”
“Any time.”
I spin on my heel and ignore the flare in Enzo’s eyes. The last thing I want to do is muddy the waters even more than they already are. I wander into the sports bar and study the screens. Horse racing has always held a special place in my heart. Dreamers. That’s what people are who bet that one of the foals registered every year has what it takes.
After studying the odds, I choose the horse running forty-to-one odds and grab a ticket.
Why not throw a little faith toward the one who no one expects to win?
“Abby!”
Turning, I see Enzo striding in my direction, making people part like the Red Sea to let him through.
“Why did you run off?”
“I find family discussions don’t need an audience.”And I don’t need to be tempted by something I can never have.
“I didn’t know you were interested in the ponies.”
“I like the big races.” I tilt my head toward the monitor. “And who doesn’t want to catch a rising star?” He grabs the ticket in my hand and smirks. “There’s no fun in winning three to one.”
“If you say so.” He gazes at me with lowered lids as he moistens his lips. “Are you heading home?”
My pulse flutters and I shake my head. “I’m going to play a few more hands before I leave.”
If someone asks me what I do, I say play cards, but that’s not entirely accurate. What I really do is gather information and decide what it means. Enzo’s interest in me doesn’t add up. His life could never include someone like me, and not just because men in his position don’t live long if they break too many rules.
He moves us to an alcove. “Have dinner with me tonight.”
The invitation catches me off guard, and my heart begins to race. “That is a bad idea.”
“I know.” He moves closer. “But I think we should do it anyway.”
“Why?”
“Because I want to share a meal with you.” He links our hands. “If I had a different life, I would ask for more…but I don’t, so I’m hoping you’ll consider spending a few hours together.”
I look down at my persimmon pumps and feel like I’m standing on the cliff’s edge. “Alright.” I raise my gaze. “I’m heading to Vegas in a few days, so this can be a goodbye dinner.”
“Vegas? Why the hell would you go there?”
“For all the obvious reasons.”
“What about your family?”
“Turns out they can spare me for a little while.” His mouth tightens. “I’m ready for a new view and don’t want to waste time looking over my shoulder in case Rodrigo doesn’t get over his snit.” I take two steps back. “Maybe spending time together isn’t a good idea after all.”
“We’re having dinner.” He moves closer and a part of me wishes he wasn’t so beautiful. “Have the floor manager call me when you’re done playing.”
