I grinned, laying it on thick. “What a coincidence, Tuesday is my favorite day of the week.”

She laughed. “You’re almost as bad as Jasper now.”

“Oh, ouch. I like to think I bring my own flair.” I liked her. Enough to ignore the warning bells clanging in my skull. When she was relaxed, she was funny and sarcastic and kept me on my toes. Want her.

“Well, if it’s any consolation, I think you’re probably a better dancer.”

“Hell, yes. I can give you another demonstration anytime you like.”

Her gaze snapped to mine, and a smile tugged at her lips. “I um, thought I already repaid my debt.”

“You did. This dance would just be because it’s fun.” Maybe I was pushing my luck. Maybe she’d scurry away again at a moment’s notice.

But she didn’t. I lost track of how long we stayed outside talking about nothing in particular. But I sure as hell didn’t plan on leaving before she did.

It wasn’t until Faith called her name from somewhere inside the house that she excused herself.

“Duty calls. I guess I’ll see you around, Alexi.”

Oh, hell.

The way she said my name held me transfixed. Abena Nartey was going to be a problem.

12

Lex…

When I opened the door to the barge on the morning before my official birthday, I stood stunned for several seconds.

“Don’t look so surprised, it’s not like you’ve never seen me before,” Dad said.

I didn’t move aside to let him in. “Well, I’ve just never seen you here before. Are you dying?”

He sneered. “You can only wish. Now step aside, and let me in.”

I didn’t see any way around it. If the old man wanted in, I wouldn’t stop him, but I’d sure as hell have exterminators come through afterward and clear out the bad energy. “What’s up, Dad? I still have time to tell you my decision.”

“I do know it’s your birthday shortly. I was there for the big event after all. I’m not totally oblivious.”

I frowned. “Considering that you’ve only been around for a couple of birthdays that I can remember, and given that you usually have your secretary pick my present, I’m pretty sure you’re not here because of my birthday.”

He squared his shoulders. “Well, you would be wrong. Tomorrow, once you’ve properly turned twenty-five, I want you in the office. But for today, I’m here to give you something.”

I worked hard to keep my expression neutral. “Yeah okay, Dad, but you could have had someone bring whatever it is over.” I hovered near the door. “I’m actually late for an appointment.”

Dad scoffed. “I think your friends can wait. After all, it’s only a party. You’re busy talking to your father.”