Page 18 of Risky Move

“Now I wish I’d signed up for that waiting list,” Caryn said. “But we have plenty of time.”

“Want to take them underwater?” Terri asked.

“Eh, not just yet. I think we’re doing great for the first time.” Caryn kissed Jenna’s forehead. “I don’t want to take the chance on scaring them—or me!”

“I don’t think Mr. Daniel scares easily.” Cassie laughed.

“Mr. Camden’s stopping by the day after tomorrow, Caryn,” Lauren said.

“Uh-oh, is he misbehaving?” Kelly asked. “I’ve wondered how he’s doing living in an apartment. Hope he’s not over-enjoying this ‘freedom.’”

“His sister lives with him,” Cassie spoke up. “I don’t know if Amelie’s a party girl like her brother.”

“You want me to ask him to invite Amelie with him? You two could enjoy some girl time together.”

Cassie nodded. “Sure, if she’s available. I’d enjoy girl chat.”

* * *

When Cam dropped his sister at the Chadwick’s house two days later, Caryn suggested they get snacks and drinks and enjoy the fresh air on the pool deck or take a walk.

“I’ll help you get the munchkins ready for their nap,” Cassie offered, but Caryn declined.

“You’re off the clock, Cassie. Relax, enjoy, go for a walk, swim. Have some fun.”

The girls walked around the vast neighborhood to see if they could meet any others—preferably male—in their age group.

“How do you like Tampa?” Cassie asked as they headed toward the far back of the subdivision.

“It’s nice. I get a bit of cabin fever when Cliff’s gone, and I’m stuck without a car. But if I get a job, he can co-sign a loan for me.” Amelie looked at Cassie with a smirk.

“Or buy you a car? I know how you feel. I haven’t asked, and Lauren hasn’t offered to let me drive her Mustang.” Cassie slipped on her sunglasses as they rounded a curve, suddenly facing the sun. “And I don’t want to ask Caryn if I can drive her car. The insurance and liability could get crazy. If I stay in Tampa, I could afford a car payment…nothing fancy.” Cassie glanced at Amelie. “I honestly didn’t realize when we met just how much you and your brother look alike. Your eyes, your expressions…much prettier on you.”

Amelie laughed. “The joy of having a fraternal twin.”

“So, where are you looking for a job?”

Amelie shrugged, then pointed at a tree in the distance, “A bald eagle.”

“Let’s see if we can get closer. I’ve never seen one.” They walked in silence a while, their eyes trained on the tree.

“I’ve applied for a job at a boutique near Cliff’s place,” Amelie answered Cassie’s earlier question. “The hours are flexible, so I can still get out and go to games and sometimes tag along for open practices. Surprised the ice doesn’t melt with all that hotness on skates. Hard to know where to look first.” She grabbed Cassie’s arm. “Oh, I met this new guy from Québéc. I could barely stutter when he spoke to me. So gorgeous, with the French accent.Oh la la!”

“Older guy?” Cassie said. “I think I saw him at Lauren and Dave’s celebration. Beyond tall, dark, long hair?”

“Oh, yes! The French guy, ‘Chance’ something. I’dloveto get together with him.”

“Friends with your brother?”

“Who knows? I met him…briefly…after practice before Cliff pulled the protective brother crap.” Amelie wrinkled her nose. “Says he’s too old for me, reputation as a player, blah, blah, blah.”

“So that didn’t discourage you one bit?” Cassie guessed.

“You got it. If I get a ‘chance’—ha-ha—with him, I’m going for it.” She grabbed Cassie’s arm. “I got his cell number. We’ve texted a few times—but please don’t say anything.”

“Asked you out yet?”

Amelie’s grey eyes danced as she shook her head. “Just some text flirting and he’s called a few times when they’re away.” She glanced at Cassie. “And that accent…He’s very smooth with his words, but it’s difficult to get him to answer questions.”

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