Chapter Three
Every night the s*x lasts from the moment we touch the smooth sheets to the first fingers of morning light streaming between the curtains. Before that, we play chess.
It’s a little strange to have the same nightly tradition with Gabriel that I had with my father. Looking back I know that Daddy felt pride for my wins, but he also used the game as a shield, keeping me from delving too deeply into his past. Gabriel uses the game the opposite way, as a key to his secrets.
And Gabriel is a fierce competitor, brutal in his attacks, swift in retribution. He wins more than I do, pulling secrets from my body as his prize.
Tonight I’m determined to win.
“The stakes,” I tell him, turning away.
“Stakes?”
“Of the game. You said they were getting higher.”
He sounds wary now. “Yes.”
