Page 64 of Dirty Husband

But Shep is paying for Dad's treatment at home. Dad has Mariah three shifts a week. An aide, no doubt one who likes Dan Brown less, keeps an eye on him the rest of the time.

He's safe. That's what matters.

I motion to the river, half a dozen blocks away. "I need to clear my head."

His eyes pass over me slowly. "You shouldn't wear that alone, this late at night."

"This is a nice neighborhood."

"I don't care. I don't like it."

My cheeks flame. My chest too. I shouldn't like him being protective as much as I do. I should find it annoying. Imposing.

Typical Shepard, taking care of his possessions.

But I want him taking care of me.

I want him growling with jealousy.

I want him furious at the thought of other men touching me.

"Here." I take his coat. Sling it over my shoulders. It's too warm—far too warm—but it does the job of covering me.

His eyes meet mine. "Is that what you'd like, a quiet walk alone?"

"Yes."

"You can have the balcony to yourself."

"Even so."

He nods with understanding. "Think about what Jeff said."

"Huh?"

"He'll say the trip is just for us. Then he'll show up at the factory like it's a coincidence. Or he'll send Marcus. Jeff seems to believe us, but Marcus is… less easily impressed."

There's more there. Something he isn't saying. But I know better than to ask. "Sure."

"I've seen some of his factories. They're interesting, but not any more so than chocolate factories in Brooklyn. If you'd like to tour one sooner, I can arrange it."

"That's fine."

"We will need to accept his offer. Treat it like the gift he sees it as."

"Fly to Madrid?"

"I'm not sure you'll find much tea in Madrid. The paella might make up for it."

My chest warms. He's looking out for me. He's protecting me. But he's also treating me like a prisoner.

I don't know what to believe.

I repeat my mantra.Dad is okay. Dad is okay. Dad is okay.

Thatiswhat matters. "I suppose he won't appreciate it if we want to see his factory in Brooklyn?" I ask.

"Unlikely. But I'll see."