Page 54 of Pervade Montego Bay
James looked puzzled. “How do you mean?”
“I can show you later if you like. If you need proof.”
His frown deepened as he realized the implications. “You have access to anything online.”
“Anywhere, anytime—the world is an open door. It’s a bit likeThe Matrix, only without Agent Smith riding my ass.”
“You do have a nice ass, by the way.”
“Thanks. So do you.”
He suppressed a smile. “Go on.”
“I can control everything…traffic lights, cameras, personal computers, phones…”
“You influence national security.” James looked impressed.
I shot an amused glance over his naked body. To be sufficiently impressed, a person had to look no further than Ballad. It was hard to stop staring at him.
He climbed out of bed and rummaged around in a drawer, pulling out two pairs of boxer shorts and two white T-shirts.
“Hungry?” he asked.
“Famished.”
We got dressed and made our way downstairs, heading for the kitchen.
He opened the fridge and pulled out a pre-prepared dish. “You haven’t lived until you’ve tasted Jamaican cooking. I’ll add some rice and peas when this is done. It’s jerk chicken.”
“Who made that?”
“I have a housekeeper who takes care of the place when I’m away. She always prepares this recipe when I come into town.” He strolled over to the oven and turned it on.
This domesticated version of Ballad made me smile.
“Can I do anything to help?” I asked.
“Just relax.”
I sat at the kitchen table and James prepared a quick snack for us—some cheese and crackers.
The smell of cheddar made my mouth water. I munched on the delicious snack and washed it down with iced tea. “I could get used to this.”
“I’m glad you feel that way. I have a hard time relaxing.” He took a sip of his drink. “Victoria used to get frustrated because I’d bring my work home…in more ways than one.”
“And she didn’t?”
“No, she had this ability to leave work mode behind and just be…” He seemed to slip into a memory of her.
“Thank you for letting me stay here, James.”
He blinked as he rose from his thoughts. “Of course.”
“Is that a boathouse I saw out back?”
“It doubles as a workshop.”
“Can I see?”
