Enchanted Legacy by Dawn Brower & Amanda Mariel
Author:Dawn Brower & Amanda Mariel [Brower, Dawn & Mariel, Amanda]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Dawn Brower
Four
Moire studied the chessboard, her brows knitted together in concentration. Nearly a fortnight had passed since Mr. Astleyâs first visit, and heâd called on her every day thereafter. The second time he came to call was so they could finish the chess game theyâd started the previous day. When the game concluded in a draw, he insisted on a rematch. That game turned into best of three, and after several more draws, they now found themselves tied.
If either of them won this game, heâd have no cause to call on her again. Part of her wished for another draw. Sheâd come to think of him as a friend and enjoyed his attentions. At the same time, her competitive side wished to best him, while her reasonable side knew she needed to guard her heart. Though she counted him a friend, she could not fool herself into believing him harmless. Moreso because she found herself attracted to him.
With a heavy heart and conflicted mind, she strategically moved her queen. Two more turns and sheâd win the game. Sheâd played chess enough to foresee what would happen. There were only so many ways Thomas could move his remaining pieces, and regardless of the choices he made, sheâd be able to corner his king.
She looked across the table. âYer move.â
Thomas quit studying the board long enough to offer a grin.
Moire swallowed back her regret, then returned his smile. She would miss him when he stopped coming 'round to see her. Theyâd developed an easy friendship. Unlike any sheâd had before or would likely have again. All the same, she sensed something more between themâsomething deeper and far more dangerous. She could not allow herself to fall for the man, nor could she string him along.
Sheâd recovered from her injury days prior. Her ankle no longer hindered her in any way. He had no further obligation to herânot that sheâd ever believed he did in the first placed. Liliâs wedding would most likely be the last time sheâd see him. After the nuptials, Thomas would be gone from her life forever. He had to be. And until then, sheâd simply refuse to see him. No other choice would suit.
Resolved to end their acquaintance, Moire slid her king into position. One more move and sheâd have him cornered. She stared at Mr. Astley, âCheck.â
âNot so fast.â He moved his king.
She furrowed her brow. How had she not seen that possibility? Castling was a common move, one she was very familiar with, as she often used it to her own advantage. With haste, she moved her queen in an attempt to force his king back.
He moved his king forward, a satisfied grin stretching his full lips. âCheckmate,â Mr. Astley said. âAnd now you owe me a forfeit.â
When she caught his gaze, his green eyes sparkled with mischief and she could not help but laugh. âOh do I?â
âIndeed, you do.â His smile broadened. âThe loser always pays a forfeit.â
âVery well, Mr. Astley, what do ye wish of me?â
âCall me Thomas,â he leaned forward, âand tell me how you came to save my life.
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