Page 76 of Dirty Husband

"Perfect." I nodthanksand pick up Dad's note. It's weird having an actual servant. Though I guess there's a more modern word for it. Assistant. Chef. Household manager.

Does it matter what you call Key's job? The title doesn't change the duties.

As long as he pays well, I suppose. It's not like I'm here out of choice.

But I am here. And I do have choices now. An entire day with nothing on the agenda.

What the hell am I supposed to do?

It's been a long time since I'd had options, much less a wealth of them.

My eyes flit to Dad's note. It's not a note, actually. More of a card. A thank you to me and Shepard for the treatment.

In his handwriting. He's doing well enough to write himself. My shoulders fall with relief.

I check my cell. A bunch of messages from acquaintances congratulating me on my engagement or digging for gossip.

Something from Dad, checking in. His usual check-in. Some normalcy amongst the craziness. Though, at this point, I'm pretty sure I am the craziness. Because thinking of last night—

Mmm.

Right on cue, my phone buzzes with a message from Shep.

Shep: There's lingerie in your drawer. Send me a picture of what you're wearing under your clothes today.

Jasmine: Or?

Shep: Or you won't get what you want.

That shouldn't be as hot as it is.

Jasmine: I'm going to visit my dad today.

Technically, I'm asking his permission. But I try not to consider that.

Shep: Lock can drive you. I've added his number to your cell. If he's running an errand for me, Key can call a car.

I guess that's asure, do whatever you want. Or something close enough.

Shep: Send me a picture before you go.

Jasmine: Will you think about it at work?

Shep: Of course.

Jasmine: Will you touch yourself?

Shep: No, princess. I'm saving that for you.

Fuck.

I change the password on my cell. To something Dad won't guess. I don't want him reading this. Beyond embarrassing. And I'm not sure he'd really understand the whole… playing thing.

Key returns with a fresh cup of oolong. Perfectly steeped again.

Strong, nutty, just a little sweet. But strange. I'm not sure I like someone serving me tea.

I'd rather make it myself. I'd rather take care of myself. So I can feel self-reliant. Independent. In control.