Page 42 of The Reckless Union (Arranged Marriage 3)

He turns to face me, his expression one of pure horror. I’m sure he didn’t realize his faux pas until now. “You’re correct—Mrs. Constantine.”

I grimace. “That’s so formal.”

“That’s how I should address you. Or ma’am.” He stands up taller, clutching his hands behind his back.

“I’m only twenty. You can’t call me ma’am,” I say irritably, taking another sip of tea.

“It’s what’s proper.”

“Well, proper can suck it.” I laugh at Jasper’s wide eyes. “You’ve known me since I was a child. I barely remember life without you in it. Can’t you just call me Charlotte?”

“It’s too informal, too intimate…”

“I consider you a family member, Jasper. Call me Charlotte,” I say firmly.

He studies me for a moment before he nods once, his expression somber. “Very well, Charlotte. I must say, you’re rather—feisty this afternoon.”

“I’m feeling better,” I tell him, and I mean it.

I’m feeling better than ever. It was nice to get that off my chest about Jasper calling me Miss Charlotte. I need to be honest with my husband as well.

There are a few things I need to tell him. Starting tonight. Over dinner.

Grabbing my phone yet again, I send Perry a quick text.

Me:Let’s go out to dinner tonight.

He responds almost immediately.

Perry:You sure you’re okay to go out?

A sigh leaves me. This man.

Me:I need to be around people. Around YOU. Out of this apartment.

It takes him a few minutes to respond and I start to grow antsy. I drain my cup. Idly scroll through social media. Nearly jump out of my skin when my phone dings.

Perry:I’ll pick you up in the Chevelle at 7.

Relief floods me at his response.

Me:Perfect. Where are you taking me?

Perry:It’s a surprise.

Me:How should I dress?

Perry:Wear something short and sexy.

A smile curls my lips. He’s sounding like my old husband right now.

And I like it.

***

I spent therest of the afternoon getting ready for my date with Perry. I found a dress in my closet that I purchased during our engagement that I never wore. It’s a deep, vivid pink, almost fuchsia with a tie fabric belt and long sleeves. It covers me almost entirely, except my legs.

And Perry is a leg man.