He sent one last lingering glance at Mason, who was chatting up a waiter, and ignoring the spike of annoyance, Jude left the banquet hall.
Warren Colchester. Who hadn’t heard of the reclusive self-made millionaire?
Once inside his room, Jude pulled out his laptop and googled Colchester. Several images popped up of a man who appeared to be in his late sixties, his arms around men and women. Ruddy cheeks and a gleaming white smile set off a thick head of silver hair, and laugh lines framed his light-gray eyes. Once married to a famous British movie star, Colchester had taken up the playboy life and retired to his yacht.
Jude pulled out his phone.Let’s see what he has to say about Mason.He entered the number.
“Hello? Who is this?” a man with a deep voice and a British accent answered.
“Hello. My name is Jude Staubman, and I’m calling about Mason Reiner. Is this Warren Colchester?”
“Did something happen to Mason? Is he all right?”
At the genuine concern and fright in Colchester’s voice, Jude rushed to reassure him. “Mason is fine. I’m actually calling you for a business reference. I’m thinking of hiring him.”
“The Jude who is his brother’s friend? You own The Company?”
“Yes. Doug and I. Mason’s spoken of me?” He could only imagine what was said and braced to defend himself.
“Oh, yes.” He laughed. “I’m rather shocked you’re calling as a potential employer.”
“I’m rather surprised myself,” Jude admitted, and explained his predicament. “So what did you think of Mason as an executive assistant? That was his position; am I correct?”
“Mason was invaluable to me. He’s quick on his feet, comes up with interesting ideas, and always kept me well-sorted.”
“I’m assuming that’s a good thing. I need someone who’ll keep my schedule updated, make sure I get to where I need to go. Someone with whom I can brainstorm and bounce ideas off. Your reputation and standing in the business world obviously holds weight, so I’d like your opinion of him as a worker.”
“Mason can do all that easily and more. Smart as a whip, that boy.”
“Hmm.”
The bite on Jude’s shoulder rubbed against his shirt collar and throbbed. He touched it gently.
“You’re sounding rather hesitant, and I wonder why. Perhaps you don’t know Mason any longer. Ten years is a long time, and people change. Maybe you should give him the chance to prove himself to you. You might be pleasantly surprised.”
“You may be right. Thank you so much for your help.”
“You’re very welcome, and give Mason my best. It hasn’t been the same here without him.”
“I will.” Jude ended the call and stared out the window.
An hour later and fully packed, Jude waited in the hotel lobby for Doug. Ilana had already left.
“Dude. I was afraid I’d miss you in the crowd.” Doug grabbed him from behind and gave him a bear hug. “Also, it’sSunday. Get out of that suit and loosen up a little.”
Jude gave him a pained smile. “It’s fine. Be safe and have a great trip.” He cleared his throat. “I—”
“You don’t have to say it. I waited all these years to get married because I know how special she is. I’d give my life for her. But I love your sorry ass too. And now we’re legally brothers. I’m thinking I got the best of the deal. But, Jude, man. Please, take this time to slow it down a little.” Doug’s golden-brown eyes, so like Mason’s, implored him. “Enjoy the summer. The business isn’t going to suffer for it, and you deserve it.” Doug squeezed his shoulder. “You can’t run on an empty tank. Fill it with life and love.”
With another, less intense hug, Doug sauntered away, leaving Jude standing alone. It was a conversation they’d had numerous times over the years, which Jude agreed with, then ended up ignoring. And would continue to, especially now that he had campaigns lined up for the next month but no one to help him…unless he did the unthinkable…
“Good. I’m glad you’re still here.” Mason stood before him in frayed cut-offs, a tie-dyed T-shirt readingZen as Fuck, and battered Converse.
Good God, am I really serious about hiring him?
His dick was certainly in favor of the idea, perking up, and he scowled at his body’s reaction.
“Tell me something, Mason. Did you actually own the tux you wore last night, or did you need to make an emergency run to Macy’s?”
