Jojo Arias, a Spanish-Filipino mestizo, didn’t expect to meet a U.S. Marine in a tony bar in the Philippines. But, Jojo can’t deny the electricity they have once he meets Adam.<br><br>Although they come from different worlds, they struggle to keep their relationship private to protect Jojo’s status and position as an heir to one of the wealthiest and powerful families in Filipino society. Billions of dollars could be easily lost if his family business is jeopardized by Jojo’s secret love affair.<br><br>Because of his standing in society, Jojo is pressured to abandon Adam and live a life in the closet. But he doesn’t want to leave the man he loves. As he struggles to maintain their secret romance, things begin to unravel and Jojo has to make a life-changing decision. Should he choose to stay with his family, or does he have the courage to pursue the love of his life?

Under the Jasmine Flowers

“That sounds good,” Jojo said as he relaxed into his seat. There was no way he was returning to Mateo’s church, that’s for sure.


After Erwin dropped off Jojo and Adam near the Manila Yacht Club, they walked the historic Roxas Boulevard to the U.S. Embassy. Many of the street vendors had mostly packed up since it was nearing sunset. A man pushing a large cart full of coconuts passed them. Jojo fingered the flowers on the garland that Adam gave him. He loved the aromatic and sweet smell that the Arabic jasmine gave off. The placid Manila Bay was on their left, while traffic passed them on the right side of the road.


Chapter 16