Page 59 of Bastard

But with Mr. Ogdenhayer’s arrival, that’s about to change.

“Can I get you another margarita?” she giggles and sways on her feet.

“I’d love another.”

She staggers off, and I wonder what condition she’ll be in for tonight’s party.

I should have asked her for a bottle of water. Hayden has me wearing an ultra-conservative navy blue bathing suit. It hits high on the chest and covers my entire bottom. I’m sweaty and uncomfortable, and also the only female out here in a one-piece. Dios, half the women are wearing nothing more than thinly cut bikini bottoms.

He wants to keep me covered up, this Lorenzo.

As if sensing my thoughts, Hayden looks my way and then, grabbing two water bottles, prowls toward me. I adjust my sunglasses, noticing how he draws the attention of every woman here. Shirt on and wearing bathing trunks instead of a Speedo. Yet he’s still sexy beyond words.

“You’re doing well,Emilia,” he greets me and hands me a bottle of water.

“We’ll see,” I reply. “I’m hoping Sabine will introduce us to her husband.”

He settles into the chair Sabine vacated. “Yes. Better if he approaches us. But in five minutes, if our lovely hostess doesn’t initiate introductions, I will.”

He flashes me a grin which gives me pause. “Your men say you never smile. Should I be alarmed?”

“My men. You’ve a talent for getting a man to reveal his deepest, darkest secrets, don’t you?”

I roll my eyes. “Every man but one.”

“I’ll share a secret with you.” He leans across the table. “I admire you.”

His aviator sunglasses reflect my surprised expression. “You do?”

“You’ve always been and continue to be a challenge.” His tone is full of respect.

“Have you been smoking peyote again?”

He snorts at the familiar question. Back in Loreto, I accused many people of doing the very same thing.

“Flattery,” I add, “will get you everywhere, Lorenzo.”

“That right?” His lips curl. “Then I’ll share another secret with you. I never back down from a challenge. And you, Luciana, are about to discover that the hard way.”

“Emilia,” I hiss, unsettled and extremely confused by his slip. And by his flirtatious, albeit calculating, manner.

“We’ve got company.”

I turn to discover the Ogdenhayers are heading toward us.

“After the introductions, ask his bride for a tour of their home while I chat with Barrington. I’ll expect a private tour from you later.”

“What a wonderful idea.”Dios, finally something important to do.I clap my hands together as I stand with Hayden to greet our host.

“Baby, this is Emilia, who I’ve told you about.” She waves at me. “This is my husband, Barrington.”

He shakes my hand, but his complete attention is on the man next to me.

“My husband, Lorenzo,” I quickly offer.

They shake hands. “I’d have introduced myself at the bar, but my wife was sitting by herself.”

“She’s a beautiful woman. And I can tell you dislike other men paying attention to her.”