Page 66 of Risky Move

“They asked me not to return to the university.”

“What? Did you break some rule?”

Amelie forced a dry laugh. “You’d have to do something terribly scandalous to get expelled. My grades—after my first year, I thought I had it under control when I got high scores. Second year, not so good. I didn’t hit the required minimum in most of my courses. I had too much fun to study.”

“Amelie…” Cassie felt her friend’s regret. “I’m so sorry. Can you get reinstated?”

“Oh, if I tell my parents and they pay for private tutors…I could repeat the year.”

“They don’t know?”

“Not even Cam knows. Their disappointment’s worse than failing. I can’t handle that, at least not now. That’s why I’m hiding out here in Tampa. Trying to get my priorities in order—so far, not doing so well, am I?”

“Maybe enrolling in courses here will help that,” Cassie said.

“Hopefully. Please keep this between us. I just need someone to talk with. I’ve felt like a phony around you. I’m sorry.”

“Amelie, I won’t tell a soul…and I’m always here to listen. At least you have Tampa to figure things out—and a mysterious, sexy man to distract you when you need it.”

“Yes, Chance. Another story for another day.Mercifor listening to my sad tale. You have a wonderful holiday with your personal physician. I’ll want details when I get back.”

* * *

Amelie’s news cast a shadow on Cassie’s spirit, but she felt confident that her friend would land on her feet.We may have more in common than I thought.Cassie recognized the reasons Amelie did not want her family to know the truth about Paris. She understood too well the desire to please parents—how many times had she felt the same pressure? And yes, maybe choosing Tampa had provided the distance Cassie needed to escape the constant emotional tug-of-war between her parents? But the stress never eased.

Cassie called Lauren to share the plans for the day.

“So, you have a mystery adventure today, also?” Lauren’s voice teased her. “That sounds like fun! No clues?”

“Nothing, other than dress in comfortable clothes. Have you had any hint for yours?”

“Not a word. But Mr. Martin’s definitely ready to roll. Enjoy yourself, Cass. We can compare details tomorrow!”

35

Three hours later, Cassie still did not know their destination as they passed unfamiliar sights along the expressway. “Farms? There are farms in this state?” She pointed toward rows and rows of artificially shortened trees.

“Not all beaches and cities, babe.” Tom nodded to his right. “Citrus groves. You can get the best oranges in the world here. Just about a year-round growing season with the weather. Think vegetables, fruit, meat, eggs—you could easily go farm-to-table.”

“That’s a great concept. Don’t think I could eat a cow I saw in a pasture, though.” Cassie made a face.

“That most likely wouldnotcome directly to you from a farm,” Tom replied with a grin. “Maybe we can pick up some oranges and strawberries on our way back.”

“Are we visiting one of those pick-your-produce farms?”

“Nope. That sounds like fun, though. Maybe another time?” Cassie caught the wink he directed her way.

“I’m game to try anything. I’ll probably eat all the strawberries as quickly as I pick them—blueberries, too.” Cassie leaned back in the seat and smiled as the sun hit her face through the open roof. “Never dreamed I’d ride in a convertible on December twenty-third.”

She closed her eyes and relaxed in the warmth. She must have dozed, because the next thing she heard was the sound of traffic and felt the slower pace of the car.

“Did I fall asleep? I’m sorry…”

“You looked relaxed. It’s fine.”

“Where are we? So much traffic.”

Tom pointed toward the upcoming road sign. “Near Orlando.”

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