Page 41 of Risky Move

“Can we give you a ride?”

“You guys going out tonight?” Cassie tried to keep the skepticism from her voice. Lauren’s laugh proved her correct.

“Eh…no. We will enjoy our private spa.”

“So…why are you asking if I need a ride? I have my car.”

“Cassie, we’ll gladly take you—and pick you up. I know you don’t enjoy driving at night. Plus, relax and enjoy an adult beverage or two…just like everyone does in college. Seriously, Cass.”

A rush of love for her aunt filled Cassie’s heart. “I know you would, Lauren. I’ll be fine. Not planning to drink. If I do, I’ll stay over with Amelie.”

“If you change your mind and you need a ride home, call me. Promise, Cassie.”

“Promise, but please don’t worry. I’ll be fine. It’s just a casual get together.”

23

Hours later, Cassie watched the constant stream of people crowd into the large condo.So, this is casual, Chez Camden? Just a “few” friends? He’s barely spoken to me since the first guests arrived and obviously takes his role as host seriously. He set up a bar on the huge kitchen counter, and Cassie thought he may have missed his true avocation as a bartender. She raised her eyebrows and cocked her head when he walked toward her, a red Solo cup in hand.

“Let me know what you think.” His lips quirked slightly as he handed it to her. “Prepared especially for you.”

She sniffed the strawberry-scented drink. “Smells yummy. What’s in this concoction?” So far, she’d drunk only soft drinks and water, but the festive atmosphere had pulled her under its spell.

“I call it a CassieRita—heavy on the strawberry mixture, light on the tequila.” His silver-grey eyes reflected mischief. “I know you’re not a big drinker—hope you like it.”

“I guess I need to try it, then?” Cassie sipped the liquid. “Hmm…yes, very good. You sure this isn’t plain strawberry punch? A VirginRita? My compliments to the bartender.”

“Extra punch for your drink.” He rested his hand against her lower back and urged her forward. “Let me introduce you to some guests.”

She knew many from the occasional games she’d attended in the suite or had met in the family gathering area afterward. Others worked with Caryn and Lauren on their promotional schedules and social media, and Cassie remembered meeting them when they stopped by the house. She stopped to chat with Amelie and Chance.

“Enjoying your free evening? Chance, Cassie is Lauren and Dave’s niece—and Andrew and Caryn’s nanny. They have the cutest twins ever,” Amelie said. “I hope you’re enjoying our party?”

Amelie’s smile shone brightly, and Cassie guessed that she’d enjoyed at least a few of the strawberry margaritas. “You need to give me your brother’s secret recipe. I could drink these all night.”

Cam peered into her nearly empty cup, then drew her closer to his side. “Refill?”

Cassie swallowed the remaining liquid and handed the cup to him. “Yes, please.” Her borderline anxiety in the crowded room lessened. Perhaps she’d relax enough to enjoy the party after another of Cam’s special drinks?Can’t hurt. Couldn’t taste any tequila, maybe just a splash. Tastes like strawberry punch.

* * *

Cassie perched on a stool near the counter, content to people-watch while she sipped yet another“special margarita.” She suspected Cam had upped the tequila in this one and reminded herself to drink slowly. A water bottle sat beside her also, so for every few sips of the margarita, she drank water. Content, she felt a slight buzz, but nothing more. Amelie and Chase had disappeared a while ago. She didn’t see them leave, but they could have slipped out or gone back to Amelie’s bedroom.

She shivered when Cam came up behind her and dropped a kiss on her shoulder. “Having a good time? Still enjoying my ‘CassieRitas,’ or would you like to try something different?”

“No, these are perfect.” She cut her eyes toward him. “I think you forgot who you were making this for—it’s stronger than the others?”

Cam took the cup from her hand and took a sip. “Maybe. Why don’t I get you another?” His silver-grey eyes flashed as a teasing smile hinted at his lips.

“No, thanks. This is just fine.”

Cam rested his hand on her lower back when Cassie retrieved her cup, his fingers dancing lightly against the skin left bare by the crop top. She glanced at him, noticing his eyes scanning the room.Wonder if he’s aware that Amelie and Chase left?His fingers playfully tickled her side, and Cassie jumped from the stool, nearly dropping her drink as she laughed.

“Not fair! No tickling.” She saw the mischievous gleam in his expression.

“Ah, good to know.” He hooked his arm around her shoulders and drew her closer. His lips brushed against her forehead. “I’m happy you accepted the invitation.”

Cassie tried to tamp down her body’s reaction to his touch.Just the alcohol making me sensitive.He felt the involuntary shiver and turned her toward him. “Cold?” His smile bordered on a smirk. “Maybe this will help.” His lips grazed against hers, pulling her against his chest. “Mm, strawberries. Sweet, just like you.”

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