Before Naomi could unleash the tirade building behind her clenched teeth, Xavier stepped closer.
"You're right," he said, voice pitched low enough that only she could hear. "I should have consulted with you first. Especially since it's your money involved." He glanced at the busy caravan members before returning his gaze to her face. "I'm used to operating alone, making snap decisions. But we're partners in this, and I disrespected that. I apologize."
Naomi's mouth opened slightly, then closed.
"I should have waited to discuss options with my woman before making arrangements," Xavier added, his hand briefly touching her elbow.
"Your..." Naomi's eyes widened, and a flush crept up her neck. "Your woman?"
"Unless you'd prefer a different term?"
Naomi seemed to short-circuit for a moment, her usual sharp retort nowhere to be found.
