“Maybe this was a mistake. What will his president do?”
“Rio? It’s hard to say. He won’t be pleased.”
“He’s friends with my father.”
“I know. And he cherishes that friendship. One of his own men sneaking around with the man’s daughter? He won’t take it lightly.”
“My father doesn’t know. He won’t tell him, will he?” I really start to panic.
“I honestly don’t know. But I’m betting he’ll make Blue make a decision.”
“A decision?”
“He won’t let this go on without Blue talking to your father. That or give you up. Which doyouthink it will be?”
“Blue already said he was prepared to go to my father, but that’s the last thing I want.”
She eyes me, absorbing my words. “Are you ashamed of Blue? Is this not serious for you?”
“It’s complicated.”
“These things always are. One thing usually uncomplicates matters.”
“What’s that?”
“Either you two are in love or you’re not.”
Spinning my stool away, I stare at the bar top and give her no response.
“Well?” She tilts her head. “Which is it?”
There’s so much she doesn’t know. “It isn’t just about my father accepting Blue.”
“What else is there?”
I can’t tell her about Mateo. She’d never understand.
When I don’t reply, she drops it, and we sit quietly until one of Blue’s brothers comes over. His eyes hit me, then move to Shelby.
“You got a new friend?” he asks.
“Hi Mauler. Actually, she came with Blue,” Shelby replies.
“Really? So, the rumors are true. Blue’s got himself a little honey.” His eyes narrow. “Now, why do you look familiar to me?”
“She’s Sanchez’s daughter,” Shelby informs him.
His eyes widen, and he snaps his fingers. “That’s it. His daughter’s wedding. You’re the reason I lost twenty bucks that night.”
I frown. “Excuse me?”
He chuckles. “Shoulda known it was a loser bet.”
“What bet?” Shelby asks.
“I bet him twenty bucks he couldn’t get one of the bridesmaids to dance with him. Then he pointed at her.”
My blood boils. I wasa bet? The only reason he approached me that night was atwenty-dollar bet?
