Page 26 of Tempted

“I don’t kid about my art, sweetheart. I’m working on something right now if you’d like to take a look. My easel is a few feet away. Come on, I’ll show you?”

Jasmine glanced over to see the kids still on the swings. This time Tyler was pushing Chelsea as the little girl squealed with delight. What was the harm in taking one quick peak? She followed Jason to his canvas and was surprised by what she saw. It was her, sitting on the park bench. She didn’t know whether to be creeped out or impressed.

“You painted me?”

“I often come to the park for inspiration, and I paint what I see. Normally, I just paint the scenery, but when I saw you sitting there, I couldn’t help myself, which, is why I’d like to have a proper sitting with you. There’s something about you, I need to capture on my canvas. As a show of good faith, when I’m finished this piece, you can have it.”

She gave the painting a shrewd once over. It only showed her profile but the detail he’d put in the work spoke of his talent. “You’re gifted.”

“Thank you.”

“Jasmine, I’m hungry,” Tyler approached with Chelsea lagging behind.

She shot Jason an apologetic look. “Sorry. I’m going to have to get these two back home.”

He nodded. “I understand.”

“Who are you?” Tyler demanded in his most belligerent tone. He slid his hand in Jasmine’s and held on tight. He normally wasn’t so touchy feely and only allowed her to hold his hand when they crossed the street and occasionally he granted her a good night kiss. She looked down at the little boy who shot Jason a dirty look. From the time he’d been in her care, she knew Tyler was more cautious around strangers, but the loathing darting from his eyes took Jasmine aback.

She gave Jason what she hoped was a look of apology and then returned her attention to her charge. “That’s not a very nice way of asking people things, Tyler. Please apologize to Mr. Rivera.”

“You said I wasn’t supposed to talk to strangers.” Tyler intensified his glare in Jason’s direction. “And so does my Dad. Let’s go Jasmine.” He tugged her hand.

Normally Jasmine would have pushed the issue but what did she really know about Jason. Besides, it was time to take the kids home anyway. She gave Jason an apologetic smile. “I’m really sorry. The hunger must be making him cranky.”

Jason grinned easily. “It’s okay. And who is this pretty little thing?” He gestured to Chelsea.

“This is Chelsea.”

Surprisingly the little girl who was usually talkative didn’t speak to Jason either. Instead, she moved next toJasmine and rested her dark head on Jasmine’s hip. “I’m tired.” Maybe the kids sensed something about Jason that she should be cautious of.

“Okay, sweetie.” Jasmine turned to Jason. “Well, the Prince and Princess has spoken. I need to go.”

“I hope you’ll give my offer some consideration.”

She nodded. “I will.”

Moments later as she walked the kids home, Jasmine felt compelled to ask them what their deal had been. “Okay you two. Spill it. Why were you rude to Mr. Rivera?”

Tyler poked his lip out mutinously as he kept his gaze straight ahead of him, giving nothing away.

Jasmineturned her attention to the youngest Meade. “Chelsea?”

“He seemed nice, but Tyler said not to talk to hi—” Chelsea broke off abruptly, probably because her brother was shooting her dirty looks. “Uh, nothing.”

Jasmine frowned. They were usually well behaved so she didn’t want to make a big deal about this one incident. Anyway, she needed to decide whether she could trust Jason. She could really use the money. But would getting involved with Jason for any reason be more trouble than it was worth?

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