Page 140 of Dirty Husband
Even after I marry Shep, the world will see me as the help. A different kind of help. The pretty trophy wife who fills her role in exchange for security.
Still smiling, still effortless, stillthank you, I'll get right on that, sir.
I don't want to remember that. For a few days, I don't want to feel like I'm stuck inside that box. I want to believe my life is like the sky—
Bright, expansive, full of possibilities.
The flight attendant drops off the hot water with a smile. "What a sweet husband, bringing your favorite drink. I wish mine was that sensitive."
"Not yet," he smiles. "But soon."
Her eyes go to the enormous ring on my left hand. "An early honeymoon." She smiles. "Very smart. Hold on to this one. He's a keeper."
"He is." I wrap my fingers around my paper cup.
Shep turns his body toward mine, blocking the rest of the plane. He has the aisle seat. I have the window. He asked which I wanted. He asked where I wanted to be.
He unwraps the box. Opens it. Pulls the bag from its plastic seal.
He's careful. Like this is precious cargo.
Slowly, he slips the bag into my cup of water.
"Thank you." My eyes find his. I can't look away. His eyes are so beautiful. A deep blue that demands all my attention. "She's right. You are a keeper."
"She means rich."
"Maybe she means handsome."
He actually smiles. Full-on smiles. "Is that so?"
"Or she can sense your… raw sexual energy." Did I really just say that?
His smile gets dirtier. "Princess, you know what happens if you dare me."
"Right here?"
He nodsright here. "Under a blanket."
"They'll kick us out."
"How? We're halfway over the Atlantic."
More like a quarter of the way, but I don't correct him. It feels good, letting him tease me.
"Are you happy?"
"Happy?" That's a big question.
"With the wedding?"
"Your team is handling it well." My laugh is nervous. "Do you ever get used to that? Having a team?"
"Eventually."
"I can't imagine. It's strange, waking up to tea and breakfast. Key ready to fill my every need. That used to be me."
"I know."
