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 narrowed his eyes at Mateo’s comment. “More coffee?” Jojo asked. He grabbed the pot and started pouring. When the pot emptied out, he stopped. Mateo’s cup was half full.


“That’s my fault,” Antonio said. “I’m afraid that I’m the reason that Jojo works so much. I’ve kind of taken more of passive guardianship role of the business and let Jojo run the day-to-day things and solicit more projects.”


“Well, you’ve had some extracurricular activities that have kept you occupied.” As soon as Jojo said it, he regretted his words. Mateo’s sharp intake of breath was the only rebuke he heard.


His mother stood. “I’m going to see if I can make more coffee. And bring out some desserts.”


“I’ll help you,” Jojo said, standing up before anyone could say anything. His father’s face jaw remained clenched, annoyed with Jojo’s faux pas. He followed his mother to the empty kitchen. He grabbed the coffee beans, and plugged in the grinder as his mother grabbed water bottles to boil water.


Chapter 46