Page 84 of The Arrangement

“Wow,” I say, pulling in a shaky breath. “I didn’t expect this.”

I move to the apothecary vase next to it, which is filled with purple orchids and pale pink roses.

Dearest Chloe,

Congratulations on the start of something beautiful. I wish you and Jason the happiest ever after.

Welcome to the family, sweetheart,

Rory

I laugh softly. “At least I know where Jason gets it.”

I return Rory’s card and then slip out the one attached to the garden of roses. There must be a hundred or more of them in the deepest, sexiest red.

Chloe,

My wife. Here’s to an adventure we’ll never forget.

Jason

I swipe my finger over his name, my heart filling with a warmth that radiates from head to toe.

“It’s going to be an adventure, all right.” I smile, placing his card on the table. I then turn to the box. “Now, what’s this?”

I pull the satin ribbon from around the box and then remove the top. Black gift paper hides the contents below. My heartbeat pounds as I push my way around. As my fingers skim the fabric, my core tightens.

“He didn’t.” Although, I know he did.

Three lingerie sets are in the box, each with a different style and color. The black one is racy—practically see-through, with the tiniest panties and a barely-there bra. The wine-colored oneis a corset-style bodysuit with a thong in the back. The lace is dreamy, and the boning gives it structure. It’s beautiful. The final one is a pleated baby doll set with an empire waist and a bow that sits just below the breasts. It’s soft and feminine, with a thong bottom.

A card has been placed below them.

Wife,

For you. Well, really, for me, as I’ll enjoy taking them off your delicious body. I’ll be thinking about you wearing these all day.

There’s a store downstairs called Halcyon. They’re expecting you. Pick out whatever you want and something to wear to dinner. They’ve been instructed not to let you leave empty-handed.

Enjoy yourself today, beautiful.

Jason

I exhale, my body instantly craving him again. I reach for my phone and tap his name.

Me: Thank you, you crazy man.

Jason: I’m crazy about you. And you’re welcome.

I glance at the box of underthings. The quality is exquisite. I don’t even want to know what that cost him.

Me: This is over the top. You know that, right?

Jason: Let me spoil you.

Me: You’re ridiculous. And there’s no way I’m going downstairs to shop. It’s too much.

Jason: You think this is ridiculous?