Page 171 of Sweet Dominion

"You’re playing dirty.”

“I must.”

“I don’t like the idea of letting go.”

“But you do like the idea of fucking me?”

“Never question that.”

“Well how could I not? You’re all focused on Marcelo, instead of being good at this cookout so you can get a show.” I knew he was trying to keep a stern expression but a smile broke out on his face instead.

And then he shook his head. “I really am pussy whipped.”

I blinked. “Lei, can you stop saying that?”

“I am.” He lowered his hands and captured my waist again. “You’re telling me what to do and I’m over here considering it like it’s fucking law.”

“That’s not being pussy whipped that’s having a good loving relationship.”

“Says the one that’s in control.”

I laughed. “I am telling the truth.”

“You’re using your pussy to control my mind.”

I sucked my teeth.

“And it’s working.”

I tensed. “Is it?”

“Yes.”

“You’re going to let it go?”

“I don’t want to, but. . .I don’t want to lose you either.”

“After thisthirdconversation, you are finally going to drop any plans for the South?”

“I don’t want to.”

I pursed my lips.

“But. . .I. . .yeah. . .I’ll let them live.”

“Jesus Christ.”

“Chen and my father thought I shouldn’t do it anyway.”

“What the fuck? You already talked about bothering the South with them?”

“It was brought up.”

I wanted to ask more, but then suddenly, Aunt Min’s voice rang out from outside, echoing through the library like an unwelcomed intruder.

“Monique! Lei! Where are you two?!” Aunt Min’s voice boomed, crackling slightly with feedback from the speakers, making it even more grating on the ears.

The noise was so sudden, so jarring, that it broke the delicate spell Lei and I had been under.

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