Page 39 of Enough

Over the next few days, Jaden reached out to Claudia but received minimal conversation. He was aware that the stress of her sister being around and Adeline’s recent hospitalization had something to do with. He reasoned she was busy, but that didn’t stop him from wanting to check on her. In any case, Jaden would give her the space she required, for now. Strolling into Rose Bank and Trust Credit Union, Jaden spoke and nodded to fellow employees. Jaden’s presence was announced when his leather oxford shoes tapped against the marble floor. He checked his Rolex and waited patiently for the elevator doors to open.

“Sir,” A young intern spoke.

Jaden turned to him. “Good morning, Dominique. How’s everything going?

“Going good, sir, I’ve got the newspaper for you.” Dominique handed over the paper with a fresh cup of coffee. “Black no milk, like you prefer it.”

Jaden grinned at the enthusiastic intern, eager to please. “Thank you Dominique, but you shouldn’t have. We’re not paying you as it is. Did you use the company card to make these purchases?”

Dominique shook his head no. “It’s just coffee and a newspaper. I’ve got a little savings.”

“Next time use the company card, it’s no problem.”

“Yes, sir.”

The elevator doors dinged, and a group of people exited. Jaden stood to the side until the last one was off then slid into the elevator just as the doors began to close. Arriving at the floor that held his headquarters, Jaden made his way through the office building.

“Mr. Rose,” his assistant cooed. “You have a visitor. I didn’t see any appointments, but she said it was last minute, so I hope you don’t mind me letting her sit inside your office.”

Jaden leaned to look through his office doors opening.

“Next time, give me a call, Samantha and I may have you reschedule. I have a conference call in 30 minutes.”

“I’m sorry, sir. I can reschedule an appointment for her now.”

“Next time.”

Jaden proceeded into his office his confident strides taking him around his desk. He sat the cup of coffee on the mahogany surface, his eyes connecting with his guest.

Sitting with her legs crossed bouncing slightly, Cassie offered Jaden a sensual smile. “Good morning, Mr. Rose.”

The fact that his name didn’t sound nearly as befitting as it did when Claudia said it was all the more reason for Jaden to want to end this meeting before it started.

“What can I do for you this morning Cassie?”

Her eyes fell to his lips then back to his honey brown eyes.

“I was wondering if you could help me out. I’m offering free dance classes to inner city kids and am in need of a partner. So far, I’ve got one hundred and fifty kids who’ve signed up, so I’ll be teaching classes throughout the week, sometimes five a day.” Cassie shifted in her seat. “I know you’re a busy man Mr. Rose—”

“Just call me, Jaden,” he offered.

Cassie’s brows quirked. “Okay, Jaden. As I was saying, I know you’re a busy man, but if you could afford to spend an hour every other day or so, that would help me out.” Cassie’s smile lit up the room, and she batted her eyes.

Jaden unbuttoned his jacket and pulled his long arms out of it, tossing it over the back of his chair. Cassie’s read-through was bold since her gray eyes paused on every part of him before returning to his sexy masculine face. Jaden pondered her request. He was always one to help out inner city kids or any kids, for that matter. But, being in such close proximity with Cassie on a regular basis was not something he looked forward to.

“I would love to help, Cassie, but unfortunately, I’ll have to turn you down.”

Cassie’s smile fell. “Why?” She almost snapped.

Jaden grimaced. “As you said before, I’m busy these days, and I’m sure you can find some other gentleman that would be willing to help you out.”

“I’m not sure about that.”

“Once you make your offer known, you’ll have a line around the corner.” Jaden offered her a half a grin. Cassie was feeling more disappointed by the second.

“Not even on weekends?”

Jaden thought more about her request. “I may be able to come through twice a week at most, but I can’t guarantee it.”

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