Page 16 of Stripe for the Picking
Rylan's expression grew intense, his alpha presence commanding her complete attention. "They take place annually to determine the most effective leader in Nexus. It's essentially our version of proving worthiness through combat and strategy. I haven't won since I first became Commander ten years ago—always end up in second place, usually losing by one or two points on some technicality."
Ten years of second place? That has to sting for someone as driven as Rylan.
"Tell me more," she urged, genuinely fascinated by the competitive fire blazing in his eyes.
"Picture the Hunger Games, but real-life interactive simulation," he said, his voice dropping to that authoritative rumble that made her toes curl in her black heels. "The arena responds to commands, creating obstacles and challenges across three rounds on different days. Participants earn points by saving virtual civilians and completing objectives. Most years I competed alone, but when I did have partners controlling the arena..." His jaw clenched. "Either we didn't mesh strategically, or it felt like deliberate sabotage."
Pure excitement bubbled through Wren's veins like champagne. "That sounds absolutely incredible! I've always loved that concept from the books—the strategy, the quick thinking, the high stakes."
"It requires split-second decision-making and perfect synchronization between the competitor in the arena and their partner controlling the simulation parameters," Rylan explained, his gaze growing heated as he studied her face. "The partner acts as mission control, manipulating the environment and providing tactical support."
Perfect. This is exactly the kind of high-level challenge I've been desperately craving.
"I want to be your partner this year," she declared, her voice brimming with confidence. "I know I can help you demolish the competition. Interactive games are my specialty—no one can match my quick thinking and adaptability. Your strength and control combined with my strategic mind? We'd be absolutely unstoppable." Her eyes locked with his. "So, when do they start?"
Rylan's eyes widened with surprise and something that looked suspiciously like desire. "Five days," he said, his voice thick with an emotion she couldn't quite identify. "Not much time to prepare while we're simultaneously dealing with these cyber attacks."
Wren laughed, the sound light and confident in the romantic atmosphere of the ballroom. "You clearly don't know me well yet, Commander. Handling multiple complex tasks simultaneously is pretty much my forte. I thrive under pressure."
A slow, devastating smile spread across Rylan's face—the first truly unguarded expression she'd seen from him all evening. The transformation was breathtaking, turning him from intimidating military commander into the most gorgeous man she'd ever laid eyes on.
God, when he smiles like that, I can barely remember my own name.
"If you think you're up for the challenge," he said, his voice dropping to an intimate rumble that made heat race through her bloodstream, "I would love to have you as my partner."
The promise in his tone suggested he meant far more than just the competition, and Wren felt her pulse spike with anticipation for what was to come.
Suddenly, feeling exhilarated by their shared excitement about the Protocol Trials and emboldened by the romantic atmosphere, Wren pushed back from the dinner table and stoodgracefully. The black cocktail dress hugged her curves perfectly as she moved, and her long dark hair cascaded over one shoulder as she reached for Rylan's arm.
"Come on, Commander," she said, tugging playfully at his sleeve. "Dance with me."
Rylan's blue eyes widened with surprise, and he shook his head firmly. "I'm not a good dancer, Wren."
"Neither am I," she laughed, her green eyes sparkling. "We can both make complete fools of ourselves together. You said you wanted me to make tonight fun and entertaining, so let's have some actual fun."
She watched as internal conflict played across his handsome features—duty warring with desire, control battling against the magnetic pull between them. Finally, something in her expression must have convinced him because he stood reluctantly, his tall frame unfolding with predatory grace.
Victory.
Wren led him toward the dance floor where other couples swayed beneath the shifting holographic lights, her heart hammering with anticipation. When they reached the polished surface, Rylan hesitated for just a moment before stepping closer and taking her hand in his much larger one. His other hand settled on her waist with careful precision, and she placed her free hand on his broad shoulder, feeling the solid muscle beneath the black fabric of his suit.
Sweet heaven, he's built like a warrior.
Being this close to him was absolutely intoxicating. His commanding presence seemed to envelope her completely, making her knees weak and her breath catch in her throat. She could smell his masculine scent—cedar and something distinctly him that made her want to bury her face against his neck and just breathe him in.
As they began moving to the soft music, she felt his muscles coiling with tension, his protective energy radiating through his careful movements.
"Loosen up," she murmured, looking up into his face. "Just enjoy the moment."
When their eyes locked, Wren literally forgot how to breathe. Those piercing blue eyes held such intensity, such barely controlled hunger, that her entire world narrowed to just this man and this moment.
What am I doing? I'm supposed to be here for a job, not getting lost in a pair of gorgeous eyes.
But she couldn't deny the way her entire body came alive in his presence, every nerve ending singing with awareness.
"I'm trying to have fun tonight," Rylan said softly. "I've really enjoyed your company so far. But I can feel everyone's eyes on us—especially the Council and Arvox."
Wren glanced around briefly, noting the subtle stares and whispered conversations happening at nearby tables. Prime Minister Arvox's ice-blue gaze was particularly intense now.
