Page 37 of Naughty and Nice
“However, I did ask…this morning.”
“And he said yes?”
“Remember when you told him about SDCC?”
I nodded.
“Similar reaction. Not a yes, not a no. He nodded and asked questions about soldiers on the street.”
I laid my head against the soft leather headrest. “I can’t believe it’s that easy. Last time?—”
“Last time,” Nick interrupted, “there were negotiations with your father. Señor Socorro Cervantes forfeited his ability to speak for you. Jano is going to ask you if you want to marry me.”
“You know my father’s name?”
Nick laughed. “Sí, and your mother’s, Nailea. You know my parents’ names.”
“I do.” Looking down at my hands, I thought about my parents. “My parents will be happy I’m married.” I turned toward Nick and smiled. “And to a lieutenant.”
Again, he squeezed my knee. “What relationship you choose to have with them is up to you. I’ll support you whether they’re a part of our lives or not. You just can’t ask me to honor and respect people who would treat you the way they have.”
“I get it. I don’t think I respect them any longer. What about Lieutenant Ruiz and Maria? Do they know?”
“Madre does.”
My stomach twisted. “And?”
His cheeks rose with his smile. “She’s very happy.”
“But you haven’t told your father?”
“I will. Let’s make it official first.”
“The ring…” I began. “It’s gorgeous. Is it an heirloom?”
“No.” He looked my way. “It’s brand new. Like our marriage will be.”
A smile spread over my face.
When we made it to el Patrón’s gate, Nick placed his badge beneath the sensor. The large white gate with gold filigree moved slowly to the side. The armed soldiers were at their posts. Once we parked, Nick opened my door and offered me his hand. “Once we have Jano’s blessing, we’ll move forward.”
There were other cars parked on the property. From my experience that meant that el Patrón was busy with business. Our marriage discussion would need to wait. With cartel business, our concerns weren’t high on el Patrón’s priority list.
“Señora Ruiz,” Silas said as he opened the door. “I would’ve been happy to pick you up and drive you here.”
“Thank you.”
Nick spoke from behind me. “I’m taking care of Señora Ruiz from now on. El Patrón?”
“In a meeting. I’ll let him know you’re waiting when he’s free.”
“Mia?” I asked.
“Out on the patio.”
Nick followed me through their home, past the closed door of Jano’s office, into the kitchen that radiated with the aroma of something Viviana was preparing, through the living room past the tall decorated tree and out to the patio.
When Mia saw us coming, she laid down her book and sat up on the lounge chair. “You decided to take my advice and take some time away from the apartments?”
