‘The first time was last year, after Indian Wells. But it—’

‘Last year?’

‘Do you remember when I took that night alone in Palm Springs? He was there, too, and, well … anyway. Then we saw each other here and there … and then again in Australia. It’s all been very casual. You know what the schedule is like, and now it’s times two. But it’s certainly not anything official.’

‘Sounds to me like it’s something.’

‘Yes, well, it’s … open. Casual.’

‘So you’ve said. Like, fifteen times now. And you’re fine with that? I’m finding all this hard to believe.’

Charlie considered this. ‘I wouldn’t say it’s my absolute first choice, sneaking in and out of each other’s hotel rooms like we’re cheating on our spouses. But it’s okay for now. And things actually seem to be picking up a little. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think we’re racing to the altar, but he’s starting to act like he likes me marginally more than all the other girls he may or may not also be sleeping with.’

‘That’s really beautiful.’

‘Don’t judge, Jake! You can see firsthand that normal relationships are practically impossible for me. What’s your excuse, by the way? Seriously, so long as we’re talking about this, why are you the only celibate gay guy I’ve ever met?’

‘Charlie …’ His voice was low, warning.

‘No, really. How long ago was it that you brought home Jack? Two years? And what’s been going on in your love life since then? A whole lot of nothing. Unless you’re some sort of secret MVP on Grindr and I don’t know about it, it seems to me like you shouldn’t be the one talking. For someone who professes to want children one day, you’ve got a lot of work to do in the romance department.’

Jake held up a hand. ‘Two totally different things. I do meet guys. I just don’t feel the need to tell you about every failed first date I’ve ever had. Yes, I’m looking for a committed relationship, and it turns out that’s about as easy to find in the twentysomething gay world as it is for professional female tennis players. But we’re getting off topic here. Who else knows?’

Charlie thought about this. ‘I don’t think he’s told anyone, and I sure haven’t. Except for Piper. And Todd, although that wasn’t my choice. Oh, and Dan, too. And now you.’

‘You told Todd and not me?’

‘Oh, grow up, Jake.’ Charlie cinched her robe tighter, enjoying this more than she thought she would. ‘Marco did actually ask me if I wanted to go to the player party together tonight. So that’s interesting.’

Jake collapsed into the desk chair as though an actual bullet had entered his body. ‘You’re lying.’

‘I am not. He just asked right now. As I was leaving.’

‘And what did he say, exactly?’

‘“Charlie, would you like to go to the player party with me tonight?” It was pretty straightforward.’

‘Oh my god. Are you ready for this?’

‘Ready for what? I didn’t say yes yet. I told him I’d text him when I knew my plans.’

‘Wow. I’m surprised. You’re better than I thought.’

Charlie smiled. ‘Thanks. I admit I thought it was ludicrous to play manipulation games when Piper suggested it, but this whole hard-to-get act seems to work. He totally wants me more.’

‘Piper is the queen. Was. But you were just telling me how casual and “open” this whole arrangement is.’

‘True. But I think by asking me to tonight’s party, he may want to go public. And you’re the first person I’ve been able to tell.’

‘I’m in shock.’

‘I know. And I’m trying not to be offended. Anyway, I think going public could be a good thing. Obviously Marco and I have a lot in common, not the least of which is our schedule. Maybe this thing with him can be different.’

Jake sighed. ‘He is different, C. He’s about a trillion times more high-profile than anyone you’ve ever dated. Yes, he seems like an okay guy. Certainly not the relationship type, but I’ll defer to you on that one. I just hope you know what you’re getting yourself into.’

‘Even you have to admit it’s perfect timing.’

Finally, Jake cracked the smallest hint of a smile. ‘For the rollout? Yeah, it would be pretty great. We’re all prepped and ready to start here, in Miami. Todd can give a few pre-interviews to get the press warmed up, and I’m in talks with Vogue. It is actually ideal timing.’

There was a knock at the hotel door.

Jake glanced at Charlie. ‘Your friend come back for round two? Or would that be three?’

‘Don’t be vile.’ Charlie smiled, walking nervously toward the door. Two waitresses pushing a table-sized cart greeted her by name and, in synchronization so perfect it looked rehearsed, poured two cups of coffee, then two cups of ice water, and removed the silver platter covers with a flourish. They vanished nearly as quickly as they had arrived.

‘He’s nothing if not efficient,’ Charlie murmured, spearing a slice of cantaloupe from the fruit plate.

‘Todd did this? How did he know I’d be here?’ Jake asked, eyeing the second egg white omelet with mushroom and spinach.

‘He didn’t. He was hoping you’d be Marco.’

With this, Jake looked like he might pass out. ‘He arranges breakfast for both of you?’

Charlie nodded. ‘He makes sure we have adjoining rooms. Trust me, no one will be happier to hear that I’m going to the party with Marco than Todd.’ She took a bite of omelet. ‘What am I going to wear?’

‘That’s been all worked out. The stylist Meredith hired can’t get here until tomorrow, but she sent ahead some great options for you to try. I can tell already the Thakoon dress is the one. You’re going to have to start wearing heels. Nothing too crazy, no stilettos – I get it, I really do – but at least two, three inches.’

‘Not happening,’ Charlie said, sipping her coffee.

‘Happening. The Warrior Princess does not wear flats.’

‘Wait, can we get back to Vogue for a minute?’ Charlie interrupted.

‘You’re American and hot and starting to win. They want an interview.’