Her Wanton Ways [Notorious Nephilim 4] (Siren Publishing Ménage Amour) by Carolyn Rosewood Page B

that you can beat us,” said Cristian.
    Joelle couldn’t help but smile. She loved Cristian’s easygoing ways as much as she loved Blade’s intensity. The two complemented each other so well, and she wondered if they’d been close as children.
    “Well, I can’t play both of you at once, so who’s first?”
    Blade waved a hand toward Cristian. “The grand champion of Lilith’s Playground awaits you, dear lady.”
    “Oh, grand champion, eh? You surprise me, Cristian.”
    His sheepish grin made her panties wet. This time she’d worn them. That thought caused a giggle to rise in her throat, but she tamped it down, not wanting Cristian to think she was laughing at him.
    “Blade exaggerates, as usual. It’s just that the other owners don’t play as often as I do, that’s all.”
    Joelle settled herself in front of the board. “All right, then. Let’s see what you can do.”
    “You can have the white pieces,” said Cristian.
    “Thank you. You’re such a gentleman to let a lady go first.”
    Blade snorted.
    “You’ll have your chance to show whether you’re as much a gentleman as Cristian,” said Joelle, smiling at him.
    “He’s not being a gentleman. He’s just trying to lull you into a false sense of security.”
    “Shut up and let us play,” said Cristian. He proved to be a more formidable opponent than she’d ever imagined, despite the fact that Blade kept giving him pointers that were in reality moves designed to help him lose.
    “Knock it off, Blade.”
    “I don’t need your help to win,” said Joelle.
    “Yes, you do. You’re not that good.” Blade’s grin made her nipples tingle.
    “Oh, is that so? Well, why don’t you just sit back and watch then, instead of distracting Cristian with your insane suggestions.”
    The molten look he gave her sent her thoughts racing toward abandoning the chessboard and instead suggesting they adjourn to Blade’s bedroom.
    Once Blade stopped critiquing every move and suggesting new ones to Cristian, Joelle found herself struggling. She used every strategy her father had taught her, including taking frequent breaks with the excuse that she had to pee or was thirsty, but two hours later it was obvious Cristian would have her in checkmate within a few moves. He knew it, too, and started doing silly things with the pieces, like trying to place a pawn on top of the knight as if it were riding a horse, and taking his one of his bishops and one of his rooks she’d captured and engaging them in a mock fight.
    Joelle laughed as he gave voices to the pieces. His humor was witty and quick, and soon she was laughing so hard she could barely concentrate. Not that it mattered, because there was no way to win the game, and she knew it.
    “I concede this game to the grand champion.” She stood and bowed, giggling at the way he beamed. She found his honesty in playing well and beating her fair and square more endearing than if he’d backed off and let her win.
    “Too chicken to play it through?” he asked.
    “No, just laughing too hard. You’re a really good player, Cristian. Thank you for the challenge.”
    Blade stood and stretched, yawning loudly. “Finally, that’s over. Now it’s my turn to show off my prowess.”
    Joelle turned to face him. “Really? And what game is yours?”
    Blade gave her a look that made her panties flood all over again. “Well, aside from the obvious, let’s see if you can beat me at pool.”

Chapter Eleven
     
    Being in the billiards room again reminded Joelle of her tryst with Cristian and how she’d stormed out afterwards. He’d told her she didn’t have anything to apologize for, but she still felt guilty. Both men were going out of their way today to make her feel comfortable and have fun. Did they spend this much time with all the guests? How in the world would they have time and energy to do so?
    She thought Blade was going to head for the one uncovered pool table on which she and Cristian had made love, and she