114 Show off

“No, I’m glad that I get this chance,” Monica tells them. “Really. I want to learn about all of Paris . . . and Jackson.” They hoot at that, teasing Jackson in French that no one translates, but it must be good because Jackson blushes slightly. The tallest of the boys looks at her with keen interest. “You are . . . most beautiful woman I see.” The compliment is delivered haltingly as he translates in his mind. But he also seems intense, his dark eyes almost diving into Monica's soul. “Aww, thanks. What is your name?” “Jamaica ,” he says, taking her hand and kissing her knuckles much the same as Jackson did. Monica wonders if Jackson is teaching them some of his charm too. “You have made my day good.”

“You romancer,” Samuel teases his friend, grinning.

Wanting to get onto a safer topic, Monica asks, “What do you typically do when Jackson visits?” “He normally tries to show us athletics,” Raphael says, winking as he adds, “and we let him feel nice about it. He is good . . . for an old