Although Kyle is quoting a stranger, I can’t help but to feelseen.
“Who is behind the project?”
“The youngest of the Heywood Corporation. It’s a wonderful empire to align yourself with. Plus you love their lemonade.”
“That’s true. I’ve publicly talked about it for free.”
“Exactly,” Kyle explains while probably calculating his commission
Fuck it. I’m moving back to Texas.
I don’t bother to ask for more details. “I want to leave now.”
I end the call before he can respond and start packing with shaky hands. Tears are still in my eyes. I hate to think I’m fleeing a city so I’ll look at it another way. I’m liberating myself from the bullshit. Luckily, my lease was month-by-month anyway. I sent the landlord my notice then checked my unread emails to find that Kyle has booked the earliest trip back to Texas.
I look around my new empty temporary home while reflecting on how quickly I packed up my life and moved in one day. I know Kyle expected me to return but I refuse. I will handle my business from Dallas. It didn’t take much thought to decide to give Lake Dallas a try especially with the offer on the line. While Texas was the place I needed to be, I didn’t want to be a sitting duck in Houston since my hometown would be the first place they’d look. I’m still feeling low and emotionally drained as I reflect on everything.
At least the youngest Heywood knew how to welcome someone. I was pleasantly surprised to be directed to a private jet for my flight. The staff and food was phenomenal. My cousin was able to hook me up with one of her units in her rental complex to house me until I find a permanent place to stay. She won’t be back in town until I’m done with my resort tour and I cannot wait to see her.
I have two days before I check in at the resort. I just want to sit in silence and stare at the ceiling.
Chapter 6
Cole
I’m nervous. I just have a lot more energy than I can expel. Getting Jessamine to the resort was an ambitious idea that almost felt too good to be true but it’s happening. I fight to not fidget or watch the clock because the time is ticking far too slowly. I haven’t expressed interest in Jessamine beyond the business deal to anyone. It feels too much like sharing your birthday wish after blowing out the candle.
I have a good feeling about her but only time will tell if we’re compatible or if she’d even want me. For now, all I can do is focus on the deal. I’m happy Kacy is a fan because she’s giddy enough for both of us.
“Can you believe it, Cole? I get to meet Jessamine today. I’ve switched my outfit so many times.”
Me, too.
“I’m happy for you but try not to overwhelm her, yeah?”
Kacy nods but I see the 8 million thoughts she’s dying to unload swirling around her like she’s in a manga.
Her phone chimes and she releases an excited squeal. “The security gate just waved her through.”
Despite my desire to appear neutral, I pop a mint into my mouth, check my hair in a lobby mirror when I pass, and straighten my blazer one too many times. Kacy and I head outside to meet her when she pulls up.
The valet opens her door and it’s like watching a highly anticipated present being unwrapped. Her hand appears first when she accepts his help. Her toned leg follows as she unfolds herself from the vehicle. Jessamine smooths the wrinkle out of her long skirt as she says something to the valet.
With a nod he moves around to get her luggage. We are positioned to see her profile. I take in her patterned two-piece outfit. Her spaghetti strap crop top is designed to accentuate her cleavage. The valet points to us, prompting her to turn in our direction.
Her skirt’s slit shows most of her left leg and has all of my attention. She starts to walk towards us and I swear it’s in slow motion. Desire punches me in the gut. My feelings swap between predatory and protective so steadily that they fall into a perplexing combination of both. It fucks me up.
Jessamine’s smile is beautiful yet tentative when she takes off her shades and looks me in the eyes.
“I heard you want me.”
Her smirk is a indication that it’s obviously a pun but the fact that I do want her has fucked up my ability to form a proper response.
“Of course,” Kacy interjects. “I worked so hard to get you here it feels almost surreal.”
Jessamine's eyes finally float from mine to focus on Kacy. “It’s so very nice to meet you,” she says warmly. Her sincerity is only enhanced when she accepts Kacy’s hug with a giggle.
“I’m sorry. I just need to fangirl for a moment. I’m such a fan. I’m obsessed with all of your looks.”
