Page 72 of Mr. Aster
“I do say. I find it amusing that having a security detail with us while we’re in the streets today would makemecomfortable but make youuncomfortable.”
“That’s one thousand percent true,” she confirmed. “Now, smile for the picture, champ. Think of something funny so your smile looks genuine and not like a reaction to sitting on razor wire.”
“Why are we taking the picture? Social media again?”
“Will that help you smile, knowing it would be uploaded to social media to keep you off the block?”
“Cute way of saying auction block,” I said.
“Smile, dammit,” she said. “I’m sending this to Nat and Spence so they know we’re in love without having to be in their presence to prove it.”
“God, the chore,” I said.
“It wasn’t a chore on the plane when you were quoting Pride and Prejudice, talking about how I wasbewitching you, body and soul,” she laughed.
“It’s because I was in control and planning the whole thing,” I answered.
“Well, youwilldo this for me, even though I know you don’t want to,” she said with a flirty grin that made my desire to kiss her like I did on the plane come flooding back.
“Turn around and pull the camera up,” I said, needing her and her attractive expressions to leave my lustful eyes. “I’ll think of my parents finding out about my engagement and the horror show that must’ve been for them.”
“Holy shit, that’s a sexy smile,” she said, instantly snapping the picture before catching the eyeroll I offered when she made the comment.
“So, where are we going?”
“Sayulita Market,” she said, looking at her phone and composing a message for Natalia. “It’s a popular surf town about thirty miles from the resort. They have an amazing market with delicious street food, locally made items, and unique art pieces in case you want to buy a painting for your mom?”
“To watch her burn it because it has something to do with my relationship with you?”
“That’s a bit harsh,” she said, “taking someone’s artwork and burning it because she hates the person her son was with when it was purchased?”
“You’d have to meet my mother to understand why she wouldn’t give two fucks about insulting anyone’s artwork,” I assured her with a smile.
“Seems like a real standup woman. She didn’t teach her boys to smile and would destroy a gift they’ve given her?”
“You are correct,” I chuckled. “Mommy Dearest.”
“No wonder you’re the way you are, all diabolical and shit.”
“Let’s not trade insults since we are having a decent time,” I teased. “Speaking of having a wonderful time, I wanted to thank you for dealing with my neuroses last night.”
“No need to thank me. Coming along on this shopping trip to enjoy Mexicomyway is good enough for me.”
“Knowing I’ll be stressed the entire time seems to appease you?”
“Meh, kind of,” she chuckled. “Hey, by the end of this outing, you’ll be thanking me not only for babysitting your insomniac ass but also for showing you some fun ways to live outside the rich and famous box.”
“Unless I drink the water?”
“If you’re that senseless, you deserve to get the shits,” she teased.
Twenty minutes later, we arrived at the local street market, which she was seemingly beyond excited to venture to. The atmosphere was euphoric, and the air was filled with the mouth-watering fragrance of homemade Mexican food, which made me crave a fresh tortilla. Don’t ask me why, but it sounded delicious.
“Damn,” I said, snatching Darcy’s hand to keep her close to me whether she agreed or not.
She tensed and went to pull away. “Seriously?” she said in utter annoyance.
“Very seriously,” I answered. “Listen, I’m not trying to be some controlling freak, but I’ll feel much safer holding your hand.”
