The game began, and it quickly became evident that Aurora was no match for the Princess. By the end of the third game, Victoria leaned back in triumph. "Three rounds, three wins!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands.
Aurora, though initially disheartened, felt better when Asher spoke up. "Don't feel bad, Aurora. The Princess has been playing chess since she was a child. It's practically a royal skill."
Victoria smiled smugly. "It's true. But Aurora, you held your own quite well for someone who claimed not to play often."
Xander, unimpressed by Victoria's boasting, stepped forward. "How about we play a few rounds?"
Victoria raised a brow, intrigued. "And if I win?"
"What do you want?" Xander asked, meeting her gaze head-on.
She smiled sweetly. "An invitation to your villa before I leave for Octavia in two days."
Aurora tensed, but Xander's calm expression didn't waver. "Deal."
