What Women Want

If Natalie hadn't been around the mansion much, she might have thought the whole series of events—from surprising her with the bracelet until now—was normal. However, she had spent enough time for that uneasy feeling about the woman to linger, intensifying when Alonso made up excuses about urgent business calls and rushed to his office, closing himself in there.

She turned the doorknob downward and very slowly opened the door. Alonso was so absorbed in his flustered state that he did not notice her and gave her a sharp look when he finally did. He closed his laptop and tucked his phone into his pocket.

"Honey? You've been here for an hour and I didn't know whether I should meet Kevin alone or wait for you."

His eye twitched and he rubbed his nose. "I got swamped in my emails. Come here."

He stood up, took her hand, and gently tugged her towards him. Placing his hand on her ear and cheek, he pressed his unshaved cheek to her forehead.