Page 92 of Power Play

“It could happen. I’ve never been someone’s favorite person. I’ve never been someone’s top priority. I was married to a man foryearsand always came in second place. Maybe that’s what I’m destined for: being almost perfect, but never quite good enough,” she says softly.

“You’re my favorite person.”

“You don’t have favorites. In fact, you dislike almost everyone.”

“I tolerate some, remember? I have a favorite now, and no one else comes fucking close.”

“Really?”

“You win by a mile.”

“Well.” She dips her chin and shivers under the blanket. “You’re one of my favorites too.”

“One of? Guess I need to step my game up.”

“You’re doing just—” She screams, cutting herself off. “What the hell is that?!”

I look to where she’s pointing and snort when I see Pico stalking our way. “That’s Pico.”

“He looks like a goddamn lion in the dark!”

“He’ll be very glad to know you think so highly of him.” Pico jumps onto the chair and stares at us. “Te di de comer. No puedes seguir teniendo hambre.” He flicks his tail, and I roll my eyes. “Está bien. Una porción más y ya! Tus ojos suplicantes no siempre van funcionar.”

“Whoa,” Piper whispers. “That was really hot.”

“What? The Spanish?”

“Yeah. What did you say to him?”

“I told him he’s already eaten today, but I’m going to give him a little more food. Then I said his begging eyes are getting old. Look at him. He acts like he’s being starved. Asshole.”

Pico turns his nose up at us and slinks back to the balcony door and the warm apartment.

“What a cute guy.”

“Great. I don’t need you two teaming up against me.”

“I’m going to bring him a basket of treats next time I come over. He’s going to love me.” She yawns and closes her eyes. “I think I might go back to bed. It’s cold and I’m getting tired. Guess talking to you bores me to sleep.”

“Finally. I can’t feel my left ass cheek.” I slip out from behind her and stand. When I’m on two feet, I bend down and pick her up, carrying her in my arms. “Might spend all my time on the ice, but it doesn’t mean I enjoy being cold.”

“I can walk, you know.” Piper buries her face in my chest and yawns again. “I got out here on my own.”

“Yeah, but I wasn’t around. I am now, and this is how you’re getting back inside.”

“Bossy. Hey. You’re going to let me spill my guts without telling me what your biggest fear is? Doesn’t seem fair to me.”

“I don’t like heights,” I say, stepping inside to the warm living room.

“You looked over the edge of the balcony.”

“Because I’m familiar with the space.”

“We’ve been out on Maverick and Emmy’s patio.”

“I don’t look down. Just out.”

“Ah, I see. Tricking your mind into thinking it’s not up high.” She taps the side of my head and smiles. “Smart, Sully.”

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