Chapter 74

Packing didn’t take long. Monique was efficient, selecting a mix of professional and casual outfits, while I chose a few comfortable trousers and shirts. I tried on a different jacket, hoping it would fit over my cast, but it was hopeless.

Monique smirked. “I think you’ll still look very handsome in just a shirt and tie, just wave the cast about a bit.”

I grabbed her by the waist and pulled her against me.

She grinned. “Let’s take this to the hot tub.”

The warm water was a welcome relief, soothing the tension in my muscles. Monique slid into my lap, her fingers trailing over my shoulders as she pressed her body against mine.

“I think,” she murmured, her lips brushing against my ear, “that I need to properly thank you for everything you’ve done for me.”

My hands slid down her back, gripping her waist. “I won’t argue with that.”

Just as she leaned in to kiss me, her phone rang from the nearby table.

She groaned, dropping her forehead to my shoulder. “You have got to be kidding me.”

I chuckled. “Better see who it is.”

She sighed and reached for the phone, answering it with a hint of frustration in her voice. “Maman, this better be good.”

There was a pause, then she let out a surprised laugh. “Wait, you already know?”

I tilted my head, listening.

Monique glanced at me, shaking her head. “Of course, Chantel told you. Maman, I was going to tell you and Papa after dinner tonight.”

I heard Yvette’s amused laugh on the other end.

“Yes, I know I need to tell him myself. We’ll come over for dinner.”

She ended the call and sighed dramatically. “Well, there goes that surprise. Thanks to Chantel, my mother already knows everything.”

I laughed. “I suppose we’re going to dinner, then.”

Monique stood, rolling her eyes. “Yes. And we need to get ready. Which means our fun will have to wait.”

I smirked. “I’ll survive.”

She leaned down, kissing me softly. “But will you?”