Page 103 of Immortal Game

“Swear it.”

“I swear on my life.”

As quick as lightning, Ciara reached out to grab Shea’s chin. Her touch was surprisingly delicate as she tipped her face up. Ciara leaned down and kissed her. It took Shea’s mind a moment to catch up with her body. On instinct, she’d risen onto her toes to meet her. After a moment, she pulled back to gaze into the delighted surprise that illuminated Ciara’s expression.

“Clever girl,” Ciara said breathlessly. “I’d wondered how you were going to keep all those ill-advised promises you made.”

Shea smiled languidly. “Did you really think I’d strand you here?”

“I don’t know. With your mortal inconstancy, who is to say what you might’ve done?” Embarrassment made her sound cross. “I suppose I am not used to people coming back for me.”

“I always will,” Shea said lowly.

Ciara traced Shea’s jawline absentmindedly, her eyes hooded. “So, how would this work?”

“My offer stands. You can stay with me for however long you want.” She considered it. “I think we can be happy, you and I. We can see all the things you want to see. Do all the things you want to do.”

“And where does chess fit in?” she asked, a little slyly. “Would we train together?”

“No. Of course not.”

Disappointment stole across her features. “No?”

“The World Championship is in two years. If we both qualify for the Candidates Tournament…”

It amazed Shea that for the first time, the thought of chess did not make her feel so awful. In fact, it thrilled her. Ciara had always been her perfect rival. Even if Shea loved her, they would never cease being at odds with one another: pushing each other to new and greater heights. She would have it no other way.

“Well.” Shea shrugged. “I can’t have you knowing all my tricks, can I?”

Ciara stared at her with a thrilled, heady delight. It was as though Shea had played a particularly brilliant move—one Ciara hadn’t foreseen at all.