“Think of what?” Jax’s voice behind me makes me jump out of my skin.
“She thought we’re a couple,” Jillian’s head flops back in a heartfelt laugh, “We’re not, Emma. He’s like a brother to me.”
“And you are a pain in my ass!” Jax spanks her ass before grabbing my bag. “Let’s go inside and give Emma and Luke a tour.”
“Idiot!” She playfully punches him before running inside.
“You’ll get used to us, and I apologize for this week in advance. The lot is a crazy one and sometimes childish.” He lets me get in first. “Make yourself home.”
“Thank you,” I smile before stepping in. I like the vibe in here and music plays in the background while Charlie and Liam are arguing over God knows what. The open space is incredible, especially the view over Lake Mead. I grew up and spent my college break over here and had so much fun.
“Kitchen, living room, studio, my office, library, a spare bathroom, are on this floor,” he points toward the hallway that leads opposite the staircase we’re about to step, “upstairs there are the bedrooms all of them with a private bathroom, and another office.”
“Your bedroom is close to mine, and don’t worry the rooms are soundproofed so you won’t hear anyone snoring.” Jillian drags me toward the room. “Do we need to work right away?”
“I’m afraid so, the agenda is packed with things you should be aware of.” I smile at her lovely pout. Jax leaves my room with a nod before disappearing downstairs. His cologne is lingering here, like a permanent presence to remind me of him.
“Okay then, whenever you’re ready join us downstairs,” she says before heading into her room.
Closing the door behind her I rest my back against it and breathe in. Jax's cologne has haunted my dreams and now he’s here. I’m inhishouse.
You’re here for work, that’s all! You train them and get out of here!
“Hey, what’s up?” Jill sits in the stool at the bar counter, “It’s been days you seem miles away.”
While cutting some fruit I crank my neck to her, “I know her. Not sure where but I’ve met her before.”
“For real?” Jill gasps while leaning closer, “do you want me to investigate?”
I pass some lime on the board of the glass and then press it in the sugar, “Please don’t. I’ll do it on my own.”
She tsks a few times before looking over her shoulder. “Well, I’m here if you need help but please make it discreet. Emma seems a sweet girl.”
“Yeah, sure. Wait a second…” Emma rushes through the patio and up to the staircase but then she pivots and goes to the living room.
I can’t take my eyes off of her and it drives me insane. What’s all that about? Her woody perfume can be smelled everywhere. Not that I complain about it.
“A pen…” She looks around until she peers at me and I point to the fridge behind me. “Got it.” She squashes the cell phone between her cheek and shoulder while placing her bag on the counter. “Absolutely, all noted, and thank you Xander. I’ll send you an email to confirm everything…” Her words become distant when Jill nails pokes the marble. Annoyed, I peer at her while she points to the card inside Emma’s wallet. My pulse accelerates while silent words fly between me and Jill.
“Of course, you’ll be the first ever to have them, and I can’t spoil more than I’ve already done.” Emma hums and then says goodbye while I finish preparing the drinks.
Our days have been pretty packed after the first meeting and god damned I couldn’t remember where I met her. We agreed to sign the contract with SMD and when I told her our decision the sparkle I saw in her eyes left me speechless. It drives me crazy not wrapping my head on where I saw her. I was aiming to be alone with her and try to figure out but she’s always on her phone or in a meeting with Angel. It’s like she never stops and what’s worse, I couldn’t spend some time with her.
“And it’s done.” Emma sighs, while placing her iPad on the counter, she steals the strawberry out of my hand. “Please tell me our drinks are ready, because I need it!”
“Of course, ma’am.” I wink at her while shaking Liam’s mojito.
Her cheeks paint in rose while she hums, tasting the delicious strawberry. “Do I have time for another phone call?”
Jill takes the cell phone out of her hand, “Nope, it’s celebration time and we do it in style.”
“Jill, no.” I call her back. Our games are wild and Emma is not used to it.
Emma peers at me and then at Jill, “Why not?”
“Come on, it’s a way to know her better and let her into our family.” Jill whines, “Please.”
“What are you afraid of, Jax?” The curiosity in Emma’s voice makes her so freaking irresistible.