Page 133 of Dirty Husband

Shep: They'll get a certain idea.

Jasmine: It's what my aunts think. That I'm marrying you for the sex.

Shep: Every man's fantasy.

Jasmine: Really?

Shep: I know it's not my sparkling personality.

My lips curl into a smile. He's actually teasing me. It's rare. Precious.

Jasmine: Not the money?

Shep: There are other rich men.

Jasmine: There are other skilled men.

Shep: You're treading dangerous ground there.

Jasmine: Will it hurt your ego? If I suggest you aren't the best I've ever had.

Shep: What do you think?

Jasmine: It's probably the only way I can hurt you.

Shep: There are lots of ways you can hurt me.

That's hard to believe. Shep is so guarded. His heart is behind a five-thousand-pound safe.

It's how he wants it.

I respect that.

I want to respect that.

He isn't going to love me. No use in daydreaming of pillow talk and walks on the beach.

Shep on the beach… that's a funny image.

Jasmine: The theater is perfect. Do we have a plan for the honeymoon?

Shep: It's a surprise.

Jasmine: Will I like it?

Shep: I'm not sure it will matter. Since we'll spend all that time in bed.

Jasmine: Is that a no?

Shep: You didn't answer the question.

Jasmine: Which one?

Shep: If I'm the best you've ever had.

Jasmine: Don't tell me you're insecure.

Shep: No. But if you don't answer, I'll have to force you to admit it.