“That looks like a smart phone,” I said.
“It is.”
“I already have a phone.” I slid it back. “But thanks.”
He returned it. “I thought I’d give it to Leo.”
“Well, it’s the thought that counts.” I settled two fingers on top of it and slid it back again.
He slid it back to me. “As a safety measure, I like my employees to have tracking software on their phones, and even if his phone wasn’t busted, it’s too old and outdated to install the necessary security app.”
“Cool story, bro.” I, once again, slid the phone back to him, but he placed his hand on top of mine, and the phone stopped in the middle of the table.
“Indigo, this is business.”
“Hyde, he is too much of a punk to be responsible for such an expensive phone. And if he were to break it, or whatever, I don’t have the funds to replace it.”
“I’m not asking you to replace it.” He removed his hand and I suddenly felt cold. “I’ll take full responsibility for it. It has my number programmed in, and he cannot get to any apps unless you enter a code, of your choosing, to allow him access.”
I sighed, then registered what he’d originally said. “Your employees?”
“He’s doin’ a really great job, GoGo. Was thinkin’, provided you sign the authorization, I’d offer him a job.”
“Oh my god, he would love that,” I breathed out.
“I’ll make sure he has a ride to and from if you can’t do it, and he’ll be protected. Always.”
“Why are you doing this?” I whispered.
“What?”
“Taking care of him.”
Jekyll smiled. “I like him, GoGo... and I don’t like most people... certainly not ones who aren’t old enough to drink. He’s a good kid and he does a fuckin’ stellar job. Who wouldn’t want to hire someone like that?”
“Heisa good kid who’s had a shitty start and middle. I want him to succeed in everything he works for because he does work. Hard.”
“Yeah, I get that.”
“So, yes, I’ll sign the authorization for him to work,” I said. “Thank you for watching out for him.”
“And the phone?”
“Yes, the phone. I’ll give him that as well.”
“Thanks, baby.”
Our number was called which gave me a good excuse to ignore his endearment. He went to retrieve the food while I shoved the new phone in my purse and silently tried to process this newfound generosity from the sexy biker.
“Tell me about Walker House,” Jekyll said, setting our food on the table and taking his seat again.
“What do you want to know?” I asked, dipping a chip in the salsa and taking a bite.
“How did Leo end up there?”
“His parents were both addicts and he ended up in foster care four years ago. He did not do well, and it was either a halfway house, juvie, or us.” I smiled. “He won me over, and for the most part, he’s a good kid. Just has trust issues.”
“Yeah, I get that.”
