Page 64 of How to Date a Prince

“American.” I give him a stern look.

He rolls his eyes. “You don’t even know what real football is.”

“Gentle-men.” Colin claps his hands to bring us back to order. “The winning team of this challenge each receives one point. The other events are individual. Day two is a mini triathlon-style event. Day three brings out your equestrian skills, which you all have—with steeplechase! I believe this should all give you a chance to show your sporting skills.”

The group descends into excited chatter, as everyone has their strengths. My guts twist, but I’m quietly determined to win. As for the other two sports, I’ve had plenty of practice in school, along with kicking a ball around with friends in uni.

“Take today to get kitted up for tomorrow’s challenge, do what you need to get ready. The crew, as always, is here to help. The match is set for noon tomorrow. Any questions?”

“For the triathlon,” Jax asks, “Can you tell us a little more?”

“My pleasure,” says Colin. “We will follow an adapted standard for our triathlon sampler, including swimming for 500 m, cycling for 15 km, and running for 5 km.”

“Metric,” Thomas murmurs with disdain.

“American,” I retort again. “You can’t even get your weights and measures sorted into the modern era. It’s vulgar.”

“Like you’re one to talk. I mean, if I had a shilling for every time I heard a Brit say something metric?—”

“I’m surprised you’re aware of English history, actually?—”

“I hear the monarchy is obsolete, so you’re one to talk?—”

My face burns with the real sting of his comments, knowing his true opinion.

“Gentle-men.” Colin looks at us sternly. “Please.”

But somewhere beyond Colin, our producer beams because nothing fills her dark heart more than a bit of trash-talking between competitors. Of course, Gisele thrives on drama like a lion out on the Serengeti with a choice antelope in its sights, and preferably, between its teeth.

“What about the horses for the steeplechase?” Connor asks, running a hand through his hair. “When will we meet our mounts?”

Feeling a little reckless, with my hands in my pockets, I smile guilelessly. “Oh, how wonderful—equestrian events. I do so love riding.”

Thomas starts a little beside me. He coughs to clear his throat. “So I hear.”

I focus with rapt attention on Connor, who waits patiently for Colin, who ignores us and our exchange of barbs.

“I believe on the day of the event. And I understand they are horses that have done plenty of steeplechase courses before, don’t worry. You’ll have the opportunity to walk the course ahead of the event as well to take note.”

Connor nods, satisfied.

“Is that all?” Colin asks us, and no one asks any further questions. “Very good. I’ll leave you to go find your sporting kit for tomorrow and your teammates, should you wish to discuss strategy.”

“You’ll tell us our teammates today?” Wilson asks, surprised.

“I believe the lists will be posted late this afternoon.” Colin’s eyes sparkle. “Along with the rules for five-a-side football if you aren’t familiar with them already.”

“We don’t have that many men,” Wilson points out.

“Ah. Don’t worry, we have a special guest joining each team.” Colin assures us all. “No one will be at a disadvantage.”

“Will we have keepers?” Jax asks. “Or, you know, anyone playing with actual skills?”

“I’m a keeper,” says Connor. “I’ve played.”

“Me too,” says Thomas.

I try not to look surprised.

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