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Danny holds up a finger. “And because there are government agents on board, we can only conclude that Ben’s covering for you because you’re some kind of spy.”
I snort, then take a sip of coffee.
“Or in the witness protection program and had your identity compromised,” Tao says, plating a stack of small, strange-looking pancakes.
“Which can’t be true as I knew Genevieve Markham for years,” Leandra says. “Sadie’s grandmother,” she explains to the men.
I start to deal, hoping my hands don’t shake. “You knew my gran?”
“I did. Firecracker of a woman,” Leandra says with a soft smile that makes my chest feel tight. “I see where you get your spark. And why Ben likes you so much—even if youaren’tactually his girlfriend.”
“He should be so lucky,” Tao says. “Food’s ready, everyone. Grab it and growl.”
The poker game goes on hiatus while we plate up our food, which looks amazing. I’d be happy with plain crackers at this point, but Tao made bacon, fried eggs, and what he says are his easy version of Chinese scallion pancakes.
“Not usually a breakfast food,” Tao says. “But then, it is midnight, not morning. And I had a craving.”
We all dig in, and for a few minutes, the only sounds are forks on plates and happy moans of happy eaters. Not that I’m surprised, but Tao can cook. Even this simple meal is impeccably good. Somehow both homey and refined.
“So,” I say, taking a bite of perfectly crisp bacon. “Leandra was supposed to give me embarrassing stories about Ben, but I’m still waiting.”
The more embarrassing, the better. Especially if they’re notcuteembarrassing, but the kind of story that will help solidify my defenses against the man.
Danny laughs. “Where should we start?”
“How long have you worked on the yacht?”
“I’ve been his first officer for five years now,” John says before taking a bite of eggs.
“And it’s a full-time job? I hope that didn’t sound rude,” I add quickly. “I’m not sure how yacht life works.”
“The three of us are full time,” Tao says.
“He needs a chef full time?” I ask.
Tao nods. “He does when he’s living on the yacht full time.”
Living on the yacht full time, huh? IknewBen’s room looked well lived-in when he gave me the tour. And he was willing to give that up … so I would feel safe.
Do not let this change your opinion of Ben! Do NOT.
But it’s getting harder and harder to listen to the voice of caution in my head.
“Danny and a few other deckhands come and go as needed, and there are some other part-time staff who might work if Ben has an event,” Leandra says.
“Who drives the yacht?” I ask.
“Ben doesn’t always hire the same crew,” John says. “Right now, it’s Art.”
I tilt my head. “Isdrivingeven the correct term?”
“Driving, piloting, captaining, helming,” Danny lists off. “Just don’t call the captainskipper. Which is technically correct. But Art doesn’t like it, and he hasnosense of humor.”
“Or you’re just not funny,” Tao says.
“Ha ha,” Danny says. “Maybe you should stick to cooking.” Then he takes a bite of a scallion pancake, and his eyes roll back in his head. “No, really, you should. Definitely stick to cooking.”
“It’s delicious,” I agree. “Thank you, Tao.”
