A Game of Hearts

by Joanna Barker

“I love you,” I said softly. The words still did not feel natural to me. I did not know if they ever would. But I meant them, each and every time I said them to her. She knew that. Her eyes met mine, filled with the love I knew she felt for me. “More treachery,” she whispered. “You know me well,” I said. “Anything to win.”

“I can’t imagine why you bother. You’ve already won the greatest prize in the world.” “I suppose you mean you?” She grinned. “Why, of course.” I linked my hands around her waist and tugged her closer. “This might be the only time I ever admit that you are right.”

Then I kissed her again, because I could not help myself, just as I could not help loving her. But also because I hoped it would slightly addle her brain. Anything to win.