Page 149 of Dirty Husband

"Where are you going?" Marcus asks. "I'm sure I can score you an excellent deal. I have resorts all over the world."

Is that it? He wants to show off? Impress us? Get us to saywhy, you certainly are an amazing man. I'm so glad to know you and have you on my side.

If it's that simple…

I'm not sure I can kiss ass. But I can thank him for the offer. And Jasmine—

She is used to convincing rich men she thinks they're fascinating. She's good at it.

"Do you have a favorite chocolate, Shepard?" Marcus asks. "I'm partial to beans from Ecuador. But a lot of people prefer the ones from Peru."

Diablo nods.

"I can't say I know the difference. My assistant purchases all my food," I say. "Mostly blends."

Marcus shakes his head in horror. "I'll send you a kit right away. You deserve better."

"I appreciate that." I try to make my smile genuine. "Thank you."

"Nothing too bitter," Jasmine says. "Well, something dark for Shep. To match his soul. But something sweeter for me."

"Milk chocolate?" he asks.

"No, I just like the sweetness," she says. "I'm not big on milk."

She never puts milk in her tea. But isn't that how you drink oolong? Or does she pick teas that don't need milk?

I want every detail.

I want to know everything about her.

I always have, but it's different now. Deeper. Fuller.

Marcus leads us into his cooking room.

He motions for us to take our spots behind one of the long white tables. The room is two tables, plus a display in front. Set up for a demonstration.

I press my palm into Jasmine's lower back to lead her to one of the tables.

Diablo whispers something to Marcus then takes a spot behind the other table.

Jasmine looks up at me.Should I?She motions to the spot next to Diablo.

I'm not sure. I can't read him well. I lean in to whisper. "Do you think it's what he wants?"

She nodsyes.

I trust her instincts. "Go."

She smiles. "How about I join you?" She moves to his table. "Since we both like it sweet."

"Your men bitter. Your chocolate sweet?" he teases.

"Maybe not bitter… just… sweet in their own way." She smiles at me.

He whispers something in her ear.

She laughs. It's a big laugh, but it sounds real. Authentic.