Chapter 40 ***

“I don’t see how you can change it. I told you, I’m very good.”

“So, I’ve learned,” he told her with a wicked grin. “But as far as cards go, you’re not going to win another hand.”

“We’ll see,” she said, and they walked back down the stairs and into the entertainment room, taking their seats around the game table.

He sat naked on the chair across from her, handing her the cards and watching as she shuffled them very effectively as though trained in a Monte Carlo casino. His smile turned genuine, admiring her beyond words.

“You never cease to amaze me, do you know that?” he asked her, watching her deal the cards.

“Why do you say that?”

“You are such a unique woman. Brave, kind, talented and very intriguing, not to mention absolutely gorgeous. I think I could spend a lifetime getting to know you and never learn everything.”

“You’re quite the romantic, Mr. Ashford,” she said as she finished the deal and lifted her cards.

“It’s not difficult when you’re with someone you want to s