Page 60 of The Desperate Warrior

Jules’s mood lifted despite herself.

“See?” Nikki said, grinning. “This is going to be fun. We’re about to learn how to make Mediterranean food from a top-tier chef.”

“I can hardly wait,” Brock said dryly.

Nikki laughed. “Well, at least Luke’s excited.”

“Ecstatic,” Luke piped up, a little too enthusiastically to be genuine.

Nikki nudged him hard.

“Ow,” he yelped, rubbing his shoulder. “Pipe down, Combat Barbie.”

She made a face at him. “You’re ecstatic, huh?”

“Thrilled,” he said with a straight face. “Always wanted to learn how to cook ...” he looked at Brock through the rearview mirror and winced, “… whatever Mediterranean food even is.”

Nikki sighed. “You’re hopeless.”

They parked and filed inside. Soft music played under the buzz of conversation as guests checked in and sipped wine from glasses with long stems.

The space was warm and inviting—long farmhouse-style tables lined one side of the room, and cooking stations had been set up with cutting boards, ramekins of spices, fresh herbs, colorful, mouth-watering vegetables, and varied other food items they would presumably need during the class.

Nikki glanced at Luke. “Looks like you’re stuck with me, Stalker Boy.”

He groaned dramatically. “Can’t stay away from me, huh?”

“Oh, hush.”

Jules and Brock exchanged an amused look. Things certainly seemed to be heating up between Nikki and Luke. Jules supposed the Scandinavian Prince was truly history.

Brock shoved his hands into his front pockets and rocked back on his heels. “Well … this is interesting.”

A chuckle rippled through Jules’s throat. She’d never seen Brock look more out of place.

“What now? Is Dr. Winslow here yet?”

She surveyed the large room. “Don’t see him. He must not be.”

“If he doesn’t show then I guess that leaves me and you.” Brock flashed her a rueful grin that caused her to swoon. It was crazy and a little disheartening how much this man affected her. Should she give him another chance? Her heart leaped at the thought.

She took in a long breath, reminding herself that now was not the time to make any drastic decisions. Once Steve Randall was apprehended, she could start thinking about her future. Contrary to what Zoe said, Jules wasn’t about to throw caution to the wind and give in to the temptation of getting back together with Brock. She needed time to process everything that was happening.

No, that wasn’t true. What she really needed was assurance that Brock wouldn’t bolt at the next sign of trouble with Trevor.

Several minutes later, there was still no sign of Asher.

“Well? Should we call it and partner up so we can go and claim a table?”

She glanced towards the entrance as Asher strode in. When he saw her, a wide smile lit his handsome face.

“He’s here,” she announced to Brock. “There.” She directed her line of vision to Asher, who was striding over with easy confidence.

The transformation in Brock was immediate. His rock jaw went taut, eyes narrowing.

Amusement circled through her. Was Brock jealous that she’d be spending the evening paired up with Asher? It certainlyseemed that way. Brock obviously wasn’t expecting the doctor to be so handsome.

“Hey. You made it.” Jules offered Asher a warm smile.

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