Page 206 of Sweet Dominion

“But—”

“It’ll be fine. We’re all celebrating.”

Moni let out a long breath. “Okay.”

Banks continued, “I want to thank my mama who gave me the good sense to season my food right from a young age and I want to thank Chef Foo for being a worthy competitor.” He raised a hand in Chef Foo’s direction. “I now consider you my brother in blue.”

“Thank you, Banks.” Chef Foo placed his hand over his heart and gave him a small bow.

Banks turned to us. “And we can’t forget the Mountain Mistress and Mountain Master who put this all together.”

Many looked our way and clapped.

“But most of all, I have to give a big shout out to the South and Rowe Street Mob.”

Absolutely everyone in green whistled or cheered.

Aunt Betty was already over by the stage taking pictures along with Aunt Min who had finally finished her Mahjong winning streak.

DJ Hendrix didn’t miss a beat. He cranked up “Hot Barbecue” again, the horns blaring as the crowd jumped up from their seats, laughing, clapping, and dancing.

The makeshift dance floor from earlier was quickly expanded due to even more people getting up to dance.

Soon, the staff began moving tables and chairs to make room for the growing dancers.

Moni grabbed my arm. “Come on, let’s dance!”

“Who? Me?”

“Yes, Lei.”

“I don’t know. . .”

“Don’t try to tell me you can’t dance, when I saw you dancing already—”

“When?”

“My private show.”

I let out a nervous chuckle. “That was different.”

I laughed, letting her pull me to my feet.

Oh fuck. Let’s hope I don’t embarrass myself.

Chapter thirty-eight

It’s Electric!

Moni

The warmth of the evening wrapped around me. It was several soft breezes carrying the sounds of laughter and music through the backyard.

DJ Hendrix shifted toBefore I Let Goby Frankie Beverly and Maze and that was when Aunt Betty yelled and yanked Marcelo out of his chair.

No one was sitting anymore. The card games and little competitions had all been abandoned. While staff cleaned up dirty plates and utensils, the entire cookout had transformed into one giant dance party.

I laughed while dragging Lei to the center of the yard, packed with everyone dancing.

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