Page 46 of Sinful Empire (Mount Trilogy 3)
The possessive way Lachlan says the word sends shivers down my spine as he strides out of the elevator and comes toward me.
“Plans change, husband. Sit.” I gesture to Seven Sinners’ most requested table, which is covered with some of the best food New Orleans has to offer, and definitely the best whiskey. “I have more work than I realized, and since that’s stopping us from taking a honeymoon . . . I thought you might appreciate a dinner with a view. I can’t cook, so this is the best I could do.”
One of Lachlan’s eyebrows quirks up. “What do mean, you can’t cook?”
“You never asked. I hope that’s not a deal breaker for you now, because you’re stuck with me.”
His laughter booms through the empty restaurant.
I decided to keep it closed until tomorrow night, but begged Odile to come in regardless. I owe her a massive favor now, and from the way she devoured V with her eyes when he followed me into the kitchen, I have a feeling I know what that favor will be.
My sassy Cajun chef won’t care that he doesn’t speak. She’s got enough to say to carry on both sides of the conversation.
“It’s fortunate we both employ chefs, or we’d starve,” Lachlan says as he pulls out a chair for me, and I sit.
While he rounds the table to take his own seat, I ask, “You can’t cook either?”
“Nothing worth eating.”
“Good thing I’ve got you both covered tonight.” Odile glides across the floor with an extra swing to her walk as she places my final request on the table. A small cake on a silver platter.
I didn’t tell her it’s my wedding cake, though, because Lord knows she’d have a million more questions. Somehow, she missed seeing my ring, and I’m thankful for that.
First, I need the man across from me to tell me how the hell I’m going to explain to people that I’m suddenly married, and to whom I can deliver the explanation. I know he said this wouldn’t be normal, and I’m not asking for normal, but I do have to tell people something. I don’t even want to think about telling my family yet.
“Thank you, Odile.”
She props a hand on each hip. “Is there anything else I can get for you before I head home?”
“No. This is perfect. I appreciate it.”
She sweeps a look over me and then Lachlan. “Bon appétit.”
“We both appreciate it, Ms. Bordelon.”
I don’t know why it comes as a surprise to me that Lachlan knows her last name, but it certainly shocks Odile.
She raises her chin. “I don’t need to know nothing except that you’re gonna treat her right, sir.”
I bite down on my lip, wondering how he’ll respond.
“You have my word.”
“Then I’ll wish you both a good evening and be on my way.”
I smile at her as she backs away from the table, her gaze drawn to where V stands near the elevator.
“V, escort Ms. Bordelon down to her car, and then you’re free for the evening.”
Odile’s face lights up at Lachlan’s order, and she practically skips toward the silent man.
“You have no idea what you’ve just unleashed.”
Lachlan’s gaze comes back to mine. “You don’t think she can handle V?”
I glance to where Odile is already chattering at him as they step into the elevator. “I’m not sure he can handle her.”
Once again, Lachlan’s laughter echoes in the room, a sound I want to hear much more often.
