It was a completely noncommittal response, and yet they both hissed out a “Yes,” complete with matching fist pump. It was both unnerving and adorable.
I wasn’t sure how I felt about my son playing video games with my ex-lover slash boss. I should be putting distance between Jasper and me, not entangling our lives even more.
Then why are you here?
“Come on,” Jasper said. “We have more to see.”
Throughout the tour, Jasper indicated some of the spaces where he wanted to add art. He showed us his outdoor terrace with a gorgeous pool, before finally leading us through a set of large glass doors to his bedroom. The room was dominated by a huge bed that screamed debauchery even though it was perfectly made. I wondered how early his housekeeper must have arrived to make sure everything was just so.
Black-and-white pictures lined one wall, images of Jasper and his family at various ages. While Jasper was busy showing Kai all the settings on his adjustable bed, I stepped closer to admire the photographs. A group of kids piled on top of each other. I could easily pick out Sloan—the only girl. Grahamwas tall and brooding, with dark, curly hair. And Jasper lay on the top of the pile, mischief in his eyes. I shook my head and laughed to myself before moving on to the next one.
Jasper and Sloan dancing at her wedding. They looked so happy and carefree. Another of Jasper and his grandmother. I recognized her from the company website and pictures I’d seen around Sloan’s flat.
Kai let out a giggle, and I turned to find him pressing the buttons on Jasper’s bed remote, his legs and head going up and down. I rolled my eyes with a smile. “He’s going to break your bed.”
Jasper merely shrugged.
“You’re such a pushover.”
He chuckled. “Actually, it was my idea. Why do you think I’m the favorite uncle?”
“Because you’re a big kid.”
“Only one of those things is true.” He kept his eyes on Kai as he said it, but the corner of his mouth lifted into this delectable little smirk.What a tease.
And now I was thinking about Jasper breakingmewith just howbighe was. My core quivered with longing, and I tried to ignore it. I wasn’t supposed to be thinking about that at all, let alone in Jasper’s bedroom.
“So this is your place,” I said, trying to return us to safer territory.
“This is my place.” He rocked on his heels.
“Don’t you ever want more separation between home and work?”
“Sometimes, yeah. And I’ve considered getting a place out near Knox and Nate. But the idea of having that much space all to myself seems somehow lonely.”
“Maybe you need a pet,” Kai offered. His little ears were always listening, even when you didn’t think he was paying attention.
“Maybe,” Jasper said. “I’ve actually been thinking about getting a dog.”
“Yes!” Kai shouted, popping up to his knees on the bed. “You should definitely get a dog.”
Jasper laughed. “Yeah? Why don’t you tell me what kind of dog I should get while your mom decides how much of my money to spend?”
Kai scrunched up his face. “Why is she spending your money?”
Jasper leaned in as if he was imparting some big secret. “Because she’s got a good eye for art, and I want her to buy me some.”
“I’ll give you some of mine,” Kai said. “It won’t even cost you anything.”
I stifled a laugh. “You’re good if I go measure?”
He nodded then turned his attention back to my son. “Come on,” Jasper said to Kai. “Let’s fix the bed, and then you can tell me.”
Surprisingly, Kai popped off the bed and handed Jasper the remote without argument or complaint. I stood there, shocked. Seriously? Kai was rarely ever that compliant with me. He was a good kid, but he was five. He had his own, often strong, opinions on things.
But for Jasper, Kai had done exactly as asked. The first time. First. Time.
It had to be a fluke. Beginner’s luck on Jasper’s part. Kai was trying to impress him; that much was sure. It wouldn’t last. At least, that’s what I was telling myself.
