“Yes, but someone is using your apparent interest in me to support their claim that you don’t deserve to be in charge of the bank. I think Jianna knew more, but I couldn’t ask for details right in the middle of the ballroom.”
“Let me guess: I’m too distracted by you and I should focus more on the bank.”
“Obviously, that’s the most common, but it’s more than that. Jianna said people have mentioned that I must be a social climber and they are doubting your discernment after being taken in by me.”
That was a little more worrying, especially if Jianna had considered it important enough to warn him via Reyn. But it was still somewhat expected. “Unfortunately, that is not a narrative I can counter until our ruse is up.”
He led her into a spin. When she faced him again, he changed the topic—he wasn’t as skilled as Reyn at smiling no matter the conversation. “I’m surprised Lisca and Khiran are here tonight. They make it to even fewer balls than I do since having the baby.”
“I believe Lady Geratisi banned them from the house until after midnight.”
“And did she do this for their benefit or her own?”
“Why pick just one?”
“A good point. Lady Geratisi is resourceful enough to have several motives for any simple request.”
Reyn grinned at him. “How long do you think they will last?”
Velario glanced over to where Khiran and Lisca stood, chatting now with Danten and Selona. “They’ve spent a few evenings out since Marseo was born at this point. And they both love dancing. I think they are going to lose track of time, but the instant they realize midnight has come, they will be out of here without hesitation.”
Reyn shook her head. “You are right that they are enjoying themselves and are liable to lose track of time, but they are going to crash well before midnight. I bet you anything they leave because they are asleep on their feet at least an hour before that.”
“Anything?” Velario asked archly.
Reyn narrowed her eyes. “I’m not going to lose, so yes, anything. What are you willing to risk?”
Velario doubted she was truly as confident as she sounded, but she bluffed well. Still, she had made a solid point about Khiran and Lisca’s exhaustion. He’d have to be careful naming the terms of their wager. And he absolutely would not think about all the things he could wager after she offeredanything.
“If I win, I get to veto a social outing of my choice.” Because he and Reyn had to look like a true courting couple, it wasn’t enough to only be seen together at the bank and shops. After an intense argument, he had agreed to let Reyn organize their evening social schedule—with the understanding that he would not go out every evening, and that he would sometimes be late.
Honestly, she had made an excellent case for the events she wanted him to attend, like this ball, and had demanded fewer than he had expected. But vetoing one of her suggestions would still be pleasant.
“Fine, but if I win, you must take me to the event of my choice.”
“Deal.”
