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“Thank you,” I said.
Brie took the glass of champagne as she got up. “I’m going to catch up with my dad. Later.” She wiggled her fingers at us and left me alone with Jason.
Where I wanted to be. But not when all these people might see.
What do you plan to do? Jump him on the lounge?
Maybe.
“Aren’t you working?”
He sat down where Brie had been, then moved closer to me. Our knees touched.
“I’m entitled to a ten-minute break now and again.”
“Oh. Thanks.” I sipped, then picked up a cheese slice on a delicate cracker. “I went hiking up to the cliffs that you jumped off of yesterday.”
“I didn’t jump. I flew. Or, technically, glided.”
I involuntarily shivered, remembering how terrified I’d been, even though I hadn’t known who he was at the time. “Did you talk to the police about the body?” I asked, not meaning to be so bold.
“Gino Garmon is handling the investigation here. But I’m certain something happened on St. John. No one brought her back to the island.”
“Don’t you think that it’s strange for St. Claire security to handle a murder investigation?”
He looked surprised. “Murder? They don’t know what happened to Diana. Why do you think she was murdered?”
I forgot that I had made that leap, but Trinahadoverheard that Diana was strangled. Maybe Gino hadn’t shared that information with the rest of the staff.
“Well, um, she’s young. She’s healthy, I presume. She left and disappeared and was found dead. And—I overheard someone say the police believe she was strangled.” There. I could get it out there without ratting out Trina.
“I heard the rumor,” he said, “but the police haven’t confirmed it. It could have been an accident. St. John has some crime problems, though the police do a good job of keeping violence out of the tourist areas. You’re not worried that something might happen here, are you?”
He took my hand and seemed genuinely concerned.
“No, just curious. I really want to know what happened to her.” I looked at our joined hands and wished he didn’t have to go back to work.
“If I promise to find out for you tomorrow, will you at least try to enjoy the luau tonight?” He squeezed my hand. “Please?”
“I’m having fun.” I smiled to show himyeah, having a great time. I don’t know if he bought it. “I like watching people,” I admitted. “I’m not really into crowds, but I promise, I’m enjoying myself and looking forward to the lagoon tonight.”
He smiled, leaned forward until his lips were almost on mine. If I edged forward an inch, they would touch. I held my breath.
Jason whispered, “I might be a little late because of the luau, but no later than midnight. I promise.”
“Should I bring anything?”
Stupid question.
“Bathing suit optional.”
Then he kissed me. His lips were warm, salty from the ocean breeze, a hint of coconut, and perfect.
Oh, God,so perfect.
I might have moaned out loud. I touched his shoulder, maybe to make sure I wasn’t hallucinating. Maybe so I wouldn’t fall over. He was warm and muscular, and if there weren’t a hundred people on the other side of the canopy I don’t know what I might have done.
Then he stood up. “I wish I had more time, but I have to get back to work.” He sounded sincere. “I’ll see you tonight.”