A Game of Hearts

by Joanna Barker

“I think we can make our own rules,” he said, low and rough. A shiver flashed down my spine. He splayed his

“I quite agree,” I managed. “Rule number one: allies may kiss each other whenever convenient.”

“Convenient?” His serious lips twitched as he bent his head forward again. “Not whenever they desire?” Those lips claimed the soft skin behind my ear and I closed my eyes, my stomach swooping like a swallow. Who would have thought that Tristan Gates kissed as well as he shot?

I knew that beside the diamond that

was Marigold, I was nothing but a rough rock.

“Marigold,” he said fiercely, “I am to be your husband. I will stand by your side, no matter the battles you face. You will never be alone. Not now. Not ever.”

“Because . . .” My voice trailed off. What could I say? I groaned, shaking my head. “Because I want you to win, even though I cannot lose.”

“I know I was not your first choice, or even your hundredth. But you are mine, Marigold. My first and only choice. And I’ll choose you every day, without pause, for the rest of my life.”