Page 8 of Sweet Dominion

His outfit was complete with a pair of black leather shoes.

Looking good, Leo, but why are you in the kitchen right now? I thought I was supposed to do this on my own.

Leo’s gaze locked onto mine. “Monique, allow me to go against tradition a little.”

What new plotting are you doing today?

Chapter one

The Mystery Gift

Monique

Leo approached with his big gift.

My ladies-in-waiting backed away.

He gave me a welcoming smile. “I would like to talk to you before the tea ceremony and give you this gift.”

My heart skipped a beat.

It was a mix of nerves and curiosity swirling inside me.

What could this gift be?

The sight of the large box and the odd presence of the other guy with the briefcase shoved me over the edge. Still, I maintained my composure and placed a top on the pot full of my tea blend. “Okay, Leo. Let’s talk.”

He placed the gift on the table. “I already know the tea ceremony will be spectacular.”

“And how do you know that?”

“It smells amazing in here. . .” He sniffed the area. “Like something my wife would have blended.”

Good.

A wide smile spread across his face. “As usual, I am very proud of you, Monique.”

It shouldn’t have made me so happy to please him but my soul damn near fluttered.What was it about him that made me want to make him proud?

This was a mad man after all.

If anything, I should have been scared shitless to be in a room by myself with him. In fact, if Lei knew Leo was in here. . .Lei would have been in here with several men.

I pointed to the gift. “You didn’t have to give me a present.”

“Why not? You are giving me several presents.”

“I am?”

“The tea ceremony will allow me more time with my son, nephews, and siblings.” He held his hands out, gesturing to the kitchen. “Also, I will get to spend a good memory in Lotus Blossom before I die tomorrow.”

I blinked not liking Leo’s talking about his death. In my mind, I still believed I could somehow stop this crazy battle.

Leo continued. “You are also giving an amazing show to the East which always makes me happy.”

“I’m going to do my best.”

“I know you will,” he winked. “That’s all that matters.”

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