Page 18 of Dirty Husband

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Chapter Six

Jasmine

My stomach flutters. This is it. The moment where I seal my fate.

Either I give up on my father.

Or I give up my freedom.

No, it's only a year. Three-hundred-sixty-five days. I survived ten months at this job. I survived a year working full time and going to school.

Yes, I eventually broke. I dropped out so I could find a better paying job, so I could support Dad. But I survived that too.

No matter what he thinks—and, honestly, I'm not sure anymore—I'm a survivor.

I can endure this too. Hell, I'd suffer worse for a slimmer chance to save my father.

Whatever it takes.

"Yes." I extend my hand.

Shepard takes it with a firm grip. "I'll send the paperwork tomorrow."

I nod. "And my father's treatment."

"Of course." He holds up his cell. A transfer from his bank account. Six figures to the hospital for Trong Lee's treatment.

The end of the albatross around my neck.

A chance.

"That first." I firm my grip. It's supposed to be a sign of strength, but my body gets the wrong idea. My fingers melt into his. My heart races. My sex clenches.

He's right.

I want him.

Standing here, two feet from him, smelling his shampoo, feeling the pure power emanating from his blue eyes—

I want him so badly I can barely stand.

But I can.

So I watch as he finalizes the transaction. Then I shake his hand again. "Thank you."

"Lock will drive you home."

It's too late for the subway—the trains only run once or twice an hour. Until that money is in my account, I can't afford a cab or a ride share. I'm not walking in these shoes.

I should be grateful for the ride. I am.

But it's not like he's asking. He's telling.

For the next year, I'm his. To pose, bend, break.

Dad is safe.

That's worth a thousand years as Shepard's.

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