Page 86 of Dirty Husband

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But I haven't managed that. I haven't managed to repay an ounce of the pain he gave me.

One day.

One day, I make him hurt.

Right now, I destroy his bullshit challenge.

Jasmine: Will it be a dry party?

Shep: No.

Jasmine: Do you think that's a good idea?

Maybe not, but I'm not about to advertise my sobriety to the world. Especially not with the likelihood that bastard will attend. I don't need him thinking he's done that to me too.

Shep: Last I heard, you drink gin. Bombay Sapphire.

Jasmine: Should I ask how you heard that?

Shep: Ian is coming, so I'll have five kinds of tonic water.

Jasmine: That seems excessive.

Shep: Apparently, there are a dozen varieties of Fever Tree. And most bars in London have at least three.

Jasmine: Are you mocking him? Or is he mocking you?

Shep: A little of both.

Jasmine: Wasn't he drinking bourbon at dinner?

Shep: Like I said, a little of both.

Jasmine: I'm glad you have a friend you can tease.

Huh. I don't usually think of Ian as a friend. Friends aren't really my concern. But I guess the word fits him.

Jasmine: Will Nick be there?

It would look strange if they didn't come.

But that presents a problem. A big problem.

My brother responded to that bastard differently. My brother prefers honesty and disclosure, at least when it comes to the people he trusts.

He trusts his fiancée.

And he trusts Jasmine.

Which means—

There's a possibility I need to prevent.

Shep: We should meet with them before the party. For dinner.

Jasmine: I was going to suggest that.

Shep: Great minds.

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