CHAPTER 10
As Branson tuned into Steph’s monologue, the noise of the casino seemed to recede. Not only did the sound of Steph’s voice soothe Bran’s nerves, but her words of gratitude reminded him of his own good fortune. It was hard to be selfish with someone like Stephanie around.
Then she said something that shook him to the core. “One more thing to put on her bucket list. I hope Ellie gets to see it someday.”
Though he was certain Steph hadn’t intended it to happen, Bran thought of how short Ellie’s life was likely to be, especially if she couldn’t get the very best medicine available to battle her cystic fibrosis.
“This is better,” Steph’s voice broke into his reverie. “We’re in the very back, and there aren’t any slot machines around.”
Her assessment was correct. As Bran expected, Finn found an area with less noise. He’d always been sensitive to Bran’s needs. Even as a teenager at camp, Finn would arrange their group so Bran always had a friend on either side. He was thoughtful like that. Though he claimed he was having a bad run at blackjack, he probably switched to craps so he could take care of Bran. Finn would make a good husband, but he had to agree to date someone first. Bran’s chest went tight. But not Stephanie.
“Hey, Bran?” Steph’s voice came back in his ear as his hands touched the edge of the table. He couldn’t tell where she was standing—she was too far away to hear her voice in the other ear. “Couldn’t I give you my money and let you gamble that, too? I really don’t understand this game, but I like watching you play.”
Bran shook his head, wishing they could talk alone.
Carina’s long nails bit into his arm, and he stiffened, turning toward her. Had she spoken to him? He’d been paying attention to Steph. “I’m sorry, Carina. Did you say something? The noise in here is distracting.”
“I think it’s too quiet back here. Hardly anyone around.” Her whiny toned made it clear she preferred being the center of attention. “And you’re ignoring me.”
“I’m listening, now. What did you say?”
“I asked what you told Stephanie about us. Does she know about… everything?”
“I didn’t tell her about the stock deal, if that’s what you’re asking. I guess she thinks we’re in love.”
“You know, Bran, there used to be more between us… a lot more than stocks.” Her voice went sultry as she wedged her body against his arm. “There could be, again. Why not let me move into your suite? You’re not going to make me stay in the east wing after we’re married, are you?”
His body refused to respond to her efforts. He bent toward her until her hair brushed his chin and muttered, “We’re not going to sleep together, Carina. Not now. And not after we’re married. How could I ever be with you again, when you made it clear you’re repulsed by me?”
“Not by you.” A hand slid inside his coat, caressing his chest through his shirt. “You have an amazing body. I told you, I’m only creeped out by those fake eyes, imagining they could pop out at any time. As long as I keep my eyes closed, I’m fine.”
“That was a one-time mistake we both regretted.” He seized her roaming hand and pushed it away, straining to keep his voice low. “I’m perfectly happy with our nonphysical relationship.”
“Even after we’re married? Three years is a long time to abstain. What if I never mention the fake-eye thing again?”
“No.” His gut roiled at the thought of sleeping with her, knowing how she felt. Maybe it would be different if he weren’t blind. He’d read somewhere men were most turned on by sight, and supposedly Carina was stunning.
“I bet you’ll change your mind.” She cleared her throat and announced in a loud voice, “I’m off to hit the slots for a while.”
Yes. Perfect.
Carina continued, “Stephanie? Want to come with me?”
Not perfect. His hands gripped the side of the table.
Steph’s voice quavered. “Well… I thought Bran might need—”
“Bran’s fine. He’s with his friends,” Carina insisted. “Let’s go.”
Bran wanted to scream, to beg her not to go, but Finn clapped him on the shoulder. “Hey, buddy. Ready to play?”
In his ear, he heard Steph speak to Carina, presumably as they walked away. “How can you walk so smoothly in five-inch heels? I tried some earlier, but I had to go upstairs and swap them out for these. Three inches, and I’m barely stable.”
Bran heard the thin notes of Carina’s response, but couldn’t distinguish any words.
“Bran? You okay?” Finn’s hand squeezed his shoulder.
“Yeah.”
Steph spoke again. “Don’t worry. I’m well-aware this isn’t my world.”
He should’ve stopped them from leaving. No doubt Carina would say something to hurt Stephanie. He strained, trying to hear Carina’s reply.
“Me and Finn?” Steph answered with a question in her voice. “No, I’m not expecting that relationship will go anywhere. Not that I don’t think he’s handsome.”
Finn demanded Branson’s attention. “Come on, Bran. Lay your bet. Cole’s the shooter.”
Bran grabbed a handful of chips. “Put them on Don’t Pass. Cole’s an awful shooter.”
“You want to bet against him?” Finn asked. “Rather insulting.”
“Absolutely,” Bran confirmed. “He has dreadful luck. Cole even bets against himself.”
He heard Steph in his ear again. “I promise, you have nothing to worry about from me, Carina. Branson’s my boss, and nothing more. I work hard to make him happy because I need my job.”
It hurt to hear the words from her lips, though it wasn’t the first time. He had no false illusions about her feelings.
