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“What brings you to Macau?” Arianna asked.
“My brothers and I are taking a much-needed vacation. They’re…” He glanced over his shoulder behind him. “Somewhere. Punctuality means nothing to them, apparently.”
“We’ll keep you company,” Arianna giggled. She pulled off the ditzy, saccharine character very well. She was so committed to the role that it was hard to tell where Arianna stopped, and Clarisse began.
She would have made a wonderful actress.
While Arianna dove into conversation with her new acquaintance, I kept an eye out for Adam, Liam, and Charlie. They had the entire bar area covered, seated at different tables while pretending to go about their business. I smiled at Adam when I noticed he ordered himself a water. Charlie was on his iPad, as always, but I didn’t miss the way that his eyes would flick up every now and then whenever he detected movement. Liam was just as alert, though I caught him eyeing me up and down on more than one occasion. I really enjoyed the attention.
“May I be so bold as to ask you what your plans are for Valentine’s Day?” Alexander asked. He was rather charming, so I understood why Arianna looked like she was about to swoon. He had no effect on me, however. My heart was reserved for another.
Well,fourothers.
“I’m afraid I’m working,” Arianna answered smoothly.
“That’s a real shame. I would have loved to take you out for dinner.”
“Well, wearein a restaurant. Why don’t you treat me to dinner now?”
I cleared my throat. “I’d rather not be the third wheel,sis.”
Alexander grinned. “I’d be more than happy to treat you both.”
“We only came down for a few drinks,” I said, a reminder to Arianna.
She patted me on the cheek, giggling. “Please forgive Rachelle. She’s very protective of me, you see.”
“It’s kind of my job,” I mumbled.
Alexander arched a brow. “What was that?”
“Nothing, nothing.”
“Actually…” He paused, taking in Arianna’s face. “You look really familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?”
I tensed. Even though I didn’t suspect Alexander of any ill intent, him recognizing the duchess could pose a serious problem. All it would take is one mention of her true identity and things could go downhill fast.
“I have that kind of face,” Arianna said calmly.
“No… I feel like… Are you some sort of celebrity? I feel like I’ve seen you in magazines.”
“That’s very flattering, but no—”
A flash of recognition ghosted across his face. “Wait a second… You’re Duchess Arianna, aren’t you?” He beamed. “Damn, if I knew that I was going to be in the presence of royalty, I would have worn a tux.”
My stomach was a tight knot. I tapped Arianna on the shoulder. “We should go.”
“I’m guessing you’re not actually sisters?” Alexander asked.
“Her bodyguard,” I said. “One of four.”
“Ah.” He politely leaned back in his bar stool. “Gotcha.”
Arianna sighed. “Sam, there’s no need to be so paranoid.”
“Actually,” came a low, angry voice. I swiveled in my seat quickly, alarmed to find Kris standing not even a foot away. “There’s good reason to be paranoid.”
“Kris?” I breathed. “When did you get back?”
