Page 66 of Secret

"But you two go way back. I can't believe he just cut ties like that."

"Yeah? Well, you don't know him. I assure you his wallet takes precedence over everything else."

"And he couldn't keep you on... in another capacity?"

"There is no corporate, Alec—just Reed... and hisstaff. In that regard, Jack's right... he's a glorified pimp."

"So, what does Jack think about it?" Alec asked.

"What doyouthink? He's over the moon. He got his cake and eats it too."

"Is that a tiny pang of resentment I hear?"

Demarco smiled. "No. Not at all. I love him, Alec. What's not to love? He's a big, brave, beautiful, bonafide man. The real deal... you know what I mean?"

"I do," said Alec, glancing over his shoulder at Tyler.

"And dynamite in the sack."

"Always a plus."

"Truth is, Alec... he's giving me everything I've always wanted. I had just given up on getting there. Now, I have it all... a husband... a family... a home."

"Did you get married?"

"Without you? No."

"You better not."

"I was speaking figuratively, but we're planning on it. It'll make the adoption process a helluva lot easier. I think we'll do the legal behind-the-scenes soon, then have a ceremony and celebration later, when we can afford it."

"I told you we were going to find you someone... and in true Demarco fashion, you went and did it all on your own."

"Not true. Those words you wrote me played a big part—especially in convincing me that it was real. I've been out of the game for a long time, Alec. I was doubtful."

"We all are."

"And then there's Jack himself. I mean... he too is a force to be reckoned with."

"Clash of the Titans."

"Oh, he's the alpha... make no mistake. I just played one on TV."

"Which brings us back to Sheronda," Alec said. "Does she have a title? Will she useChandelier?"

"No. She said she likes the idea of something French though."

"Silhouette... Soleil... Rendezvous..."

"Ooh... those are good. I told her I'd ask Jack too."

"Does he speak French?"

"No. Well, yeah... a little, here lately. It's kind of bizarre."

"Maybe he's trying to get you in the mood... like Gomez with Morticia."

Demarco's mouth dropped. "OMG, Alec—I think you just solved my mystery. He loves those old shows. Seriously, you have got to get back to DC. I need your wisdom."