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

Jojo said Domo arigato and walked away from his desk. Roger pursed his lips and didn’t say anything. “Thanks, Roger.” Roger nodded and left for his office and Jojo walked to the table, and sat across from Adam.


Adam was curious what transpired but didn’t say anything.


“Well, the Japanese subcontractor will reconfigure the engineering but unfortunately, in letting them save face, this company will have to absorb those additional costs. We should have caught it. I should have caught it. Roger feels bad he didn’t catch it but I am the one who approved it. I’m the one who pored over those schematics with a fine tooth comb, and still I missed those specs.”


“I’m sorry, Jojo.” Adam wanted to get up and hug Jojo but the office door was open and people were walking around the hallway.


“I feel like a failure sometimes,” Jojo whispered.


Chapter 22