Page 70 of Enough

“What can I do you for Ms. Singapore,” his smooth voice seeped through the phone.

“Are we formal now Jaden? Should I call you, Mr. Rose?”

“Nah, Jaden’s fine. What’s up?”

“I wanted to talk with you about something important. Is your lunch schedule free?”

“Actually, it’s not. Why don’t you tell me what it’s about while you have me on the phone?”

Cassie hesitated. “I want to invest in your hedge fund, and I’ve been reading some material on how to go about doing that. I figured since you’re the man with the master plan, you can assist me.”

Jaden thought about Claudia. He didn’t want to cancel his lunch date with her, but being that this was a business call, he would need to. He slid his tongue across his teeth and thought about it a bit more. Jaden knew he had to be careful with Cassie. She was interested in more than investments, but she had donated to his mother’s charity for the last five years.

“Meet me at Jasper’s at one. We’ll talk about it then,” Jaden acquiesced.

“Great, I look forward to it. See you soon.”

Jaden disconnected the call and pulled into Rose Bank and Trust Credit Union. Before going inside, he dialed Claudia’s number and waited patiently for her to answer. Her cell rang three times before going to voicemail. Jaden disconnected. She must have been busy. He opened his messages and sent, her a text.

Chérie, unfortunately, I need to cancel our lunch date. It looks like I’ll be working throughout the day. When you get a chance call me back.

Jaden dropped the phone in his pocket and exited the vehicle with thoughts of Claudia dancing around his head.

Lunch time didn’t come soon enough. Jaden had three conference calls today and the first one lasted most of his morning. He pulled out his cell feeling a bit disappointed with no missed calls or text messages from Claudia. Her day must be just as busy as his. Revving his engine, Jaden pulled out of the parking lot heading for Jasper’s. Besides Chicago being its usual windy day, the sun sat high and suddenly, Jaden wished he was in his drop top.

It was a good day to let the top down and ride with the wind breezing about. His mind went to Claudia and what her hair would look like flowing in the wind.

“You’ve got it bad son,” he spoke to himself. “Especially now that you’re driving down the street, talking to yourself.” Jaden grinned and shook his head. He was tempted to blow off the meeting with Cassie and pop in on Claudia. If she hadn’t gotten his message, she would think he’d stood her up. Jaden went to call her again but decided against it. If she was truly busy, he didn’t want to disturb her.

“It’s no problem at all Mr. Ralphshire, thank you for your business.”

Claudia shook the older gentleman’s hand, and he left her office. She blew out a heavy sighed and strolled back to her desk. Because her schedule was made weeks in advance, sometimes Claudia would forget when she was double-booked. She took a glance at the time; it was 1:45 pm. She’d skipped out on lunch since Jaden had other plans come up. It was too bad because she was looking forward to seeing him again. A small smile flickered across her lips. Every time Claudia had a free moment, her thoughts would venture to Jaden.

She pulled her cell phone out and sent him a text;

Hey you, it seems we both have a busy day ahead of us. Maybe we can get lunch tomorrow? Call me when you get a chance.

There was a knock at her door, and Claudia turned her attention to it.

“You getting lunch?” Octavia asked, peeking her head in the door.

“I should since I haven’t had anything.”

“I’m going to the grill downstairs you’re more than welcomed to join me.”

Claudia rose to her feet and grabbed her purse. “I couldn’t refuse if I wanted to. My stomach would surely be upset with me.”

Octavia laughed, and they left the office.

“We probably should’ve asked Samiyah if she wanted anything.”

Claudia side eyed her. “Girl if you think Samiyah is in that office during lunch time you’re crazy. She has her hands full with Jonas.”

“Her door was closed, and I heard voices,” Octavia said perplexed.

“That means Jonas is inside and trust me you don’t want to disturb them.”

Octavia crinkled her nose. “Ew, I’ve sat in those chairs in her office and that sofa.”

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