“I don’t know, genius. You’d think those would be fun for you and your giant brain.”

“My giant brain is geared for painting, creative things. Numbers make me sick.” He frowned.

“And yet you can’t get enough of computer games.” I rolled over so I was lying on my stomach and looking at him. “You’re such a nerd.”

“Everyone needs a distraction.” He wiggled his eyebrows at me. “Looked like you found yourself one.”

“What?” I hoped my expression didn’t give away my surprise. I should have known that more people would have noticed me and David sneaking away.

“Sam’s friend. The bloke with the dark hair who can’t find a razor.”

“Really? Are you going to tease me about a guy like we’re teenagers?” I rolled my eyes.

“Yes, yes I am.” He chuckled. “Care to say what happened after you disappeared?”

“Absolutely not.” I’d die if anyone found out the truth. It was almost better that they think I’d had a one-night stand. I wouldn’t be the first in the family to scratch an itch.

“I thought that might be your response.” Max stretched in his seat. “Just be careful there.”

“What do you mean?” Why was everyone warning me about David? It was starting to piss me off. It wasn’t like he had chased me. I’d been the one doing the seducing. I think, anyways.

“Don’t get bent out of shape.” It was his turn to roll his eyes. “I just meant that he’s not used to everything we put up with. It’s a lot for people to adjust to. You know how hard it’s been for Sam.”

“David is a smart man.”

“He is.” He laughed at my expression. “What? You didn’t think I’d do my research when I saw him sneaking off with my baby sister?”

“I’m not a baby.”

“You’ll always be the baby in the house.” He shrugged. “I’m just saying that you might need to prep him for what dating you would entail.”

“Right, I’ll draft up a list for him in the morning.” I rolled my eyes. I wanted to get to know David better, not scare him away.

“Well, I’m calling it a night. I have to meet the local council in the morning for lunch since Alex is away.”

“Oh, that sounds fun.” I smirked. That would be torture for him.

“Trade?” Max stood up.

“Yeah, I’m going to pass.” I laughed.

“You’re opening a bird sanctuary tomorrow, right?” Max frowned. “Photographs, speeches, all that good stuff. I guess I’d hate that just as much.”

“Yep.” I laid my head down and stared at the flames. “Back to work in the morning.”

“Right.” He leaned down and kissed the top of my head. “Good night, sister.”

“’Night.” I yawned loudly. It was definitely time for bed.

NINE

THE NEXT MORNING came early and in ugly fashion. The beautiful weather from the wedding had passed and storms were forecast for the rest of the week. Sighing, I climbed out of bed and got ready for the day’s schedule. I opted for an outfit that would allow me to wear boots. With the amount of rain that had fallen the night before, I would sink in the mud if I wore heels.

Selene was ready downstairs with umbrellas, my briefcase, and her ever-present clipboard. “This will probably be a little shorter than we planned since the weather isn’t cooperating.”

“Do we have food scheduled for the event? We’ll need to give the visitors and staff something to do inside.” I thought about it for a moment. “We don’t want them to feel slighted by not staying long enough.”

“True. We had light breakfast fare planned, but I will call and see if we get something a little more substantial. We’ll also need to adjust the photo ops.” Selene pulled her phone out of her pocket. It was one of the few pieces of electronics that she had adjusted to using.

“Let me know if I can do anything to help.” I whispered the words quietly. She nodded her head as she rapidly spoke Lilarian into the phone.

I pulled out my phone and checked the weather before sending a text to Chadwick. I figured he would be present for the event since Sam would want a firsthand account even if she was on her honeymoon.

Me: Is there room inside for everyone today?

Chadwick: David has moved some birds inside and is going to do a demonstration to amuse people so we’re not walking through the rain to tour.

My heart thudded in my chest. I was going to see him much sooner than I had thought.

Me: David will be there?

Chadwick: Yes.

I didn’t say anything in response. I hadn’t expected to see David today. Would that be awkward? I looked down at the skirt, sweater, and jacket I had chosen to wear. Cute but efficient. I took a deep breath.

Chadwick: Why? ;)

Me: Will be nice to have help. And wink at yourself.

Chadwick: Just saying that if he played for my team, Daniel would need to be worried.

Me: LOL

I turned the screen off and looked at Selene. “Ready?”

“Yes.” She opened an umbrella and stepped out the door. She rubbed her chest with her free hand before motioning for me to follow her out. Her face looked tight, but I knew she developed heartburn from time to time, so I didn’t think much of it. I kept my head under cover so that my hair wouldn’t look like a mess when I arrived. There wouldn’t be time to prep once there; I’d jump straight into my diplomatic role. Shaking hands, smiling for photos, and making small talk. It should be fun.