Twisted, #2
Twisted Games
by Ana Huang
Contents
2. Rhys
Overview
Two weeks into the assignment, Rhys struggles with Princess Bridget’s defiance during a crowded night at The Crypt. When a persistent stranger harasses Bridget, Rhys intervenes and compels an apology, briefly easing their tension. Rhys acknowledges his attraction but recommits to professionalism, hinting at a fraught, evolving dynamic.
Summary
Rhys narrates two weeks into guarding Princess Bridget, describing her beauty, stubbornness, and disregard for his security protocols. He accompanies Bridget and her friends—Jules, Stella, and Ava—to The Crypt, a crowded bar Rhys dislikes. Alex Volkov arrives for Ava, then leaves, while Bridget continues dancing.
Rhys reflects on Christian assigning him the job, his initial reluctance, and his immediate, unwelcome attraction to Bridget. He watches Bridget enjoy herself, trying to stay focused on security.
When a determined frat boy approaches Bridget and ignores her refusals, Rhys steps in. After the man mutters an insult, Rhys seizes him, pressures him into a direct apology, and threatens severe consequences if he harasses women again. The man flees.
Bridget thanks Rhys but voices frustration that her “no” wasn’t respected. They share a brief, unexpectedly civil exchange. Bridget offers a drink; Rhys declines, revealing he never drinks, and she chooses not to pry further.
With Jules and Stella back, the moment passes. Rhys acknowledges his attraction to Bridget’s strength and warmth but resolves to maintain strict professional boundaries, underscoring the tension between desire and duty.
Who Appears
- Rhys LarsenEx–Navy SEAL bodyguard; irritated by Bridget’s defiance, defuses a harasser, refuses alcohol, and reaffirms professional boundaries despite attraction.
- Princess Bridget von AschebergClient; insists on nightlife, firmly rebuffs a pushy stranger, thanks Rhys, and shares a rare civil moment with him.
- Jules AmbroseBridget’s friend; flirty and bold, encourages dancing, briefly absent during the harassment incident.
- StellaFriend; joins Jules on the dance floor and returns after the incident, pragmatic about Rhys’s role.
- AvaFriend; tired and leaves early with Alex after he arrives.
- Alex VolkovAva’s boyfriend; arrives briefly, aloof presence, then departs with her.
- Unnamed frat boyHarasser in the bar; ignores Bridget’s refusals, insults her, then is forced by Rhys to apologize and leaves.