“It’s a great idea, Stephen,” Angie said as she smiled at him.
“This is great,” Jeff chimed in.
For the first time in weeks, Deja felt a spark of hope. Their newfound compromise and better understanding of Stephen she felt a glimmer of hope for them. As they worked side by side, she couldn't help but wonder if this was the turning point they had been searching for. The time flew by, and Lora called Stephen to let him know it was two thirty and they expected the client at three.
“Okay team, take a few minutes to clear your minds before our three o’clock meeting.” Everyone walked out. Deja went to her office and freshened up before the meeting.
Ten minutes before the start of the meeting, Deja walked in, and Angie was already sitting there next to Stephen. She looked at Deja and smirked.
“Ms. Rose,” she heard a deep voice from behind.
“Jason, how are you?” She remembered Jason from the club.
Good, now that I’ve seen you.”
Deja smiled. “I didn’t know you were going to be here. Is this your company?”
“Not yet. I’m just sitting in on the meeting to observe.”
Deja took the seat next to Jason and turned to see Stephen’s icy glare.
What’s wrong with him?
Jason leaned in to whisper a joke in her ear. Deja laughed out loud, and everyone turned to look at her.
“Sorry, that’s my fault. I just shared a funny joke with her.”
“Maybe you want to share so we can all get a laugh.” Angie said with a wide smile.
“It was a private joke. Only for Deja’s ears.” Jason replied.
Angie cleared her throat.
“Let’s get this meeting started,” Stephen said as he stood.
Deja and Stephen tag teamed the presentation. And by the end of the meeting, they had sold the client on the proposal.
“Since it’s a good chance that I will own this company shortly. I would like a private meeting with Deja. I have several questions, and I think you could answer all of them.”
“Jason, I think Stephen and I could more effectively respond to all your questions.” She said as she looked at Stephen, who was glaring at Jason.”
“If you have additional question, you can either ask them now or email them to us.” Stephen’s tone was sharp and curt.
“Okay, that’s fair.” Jason held his hands up in defeat. I will email you any additional questions.
“Great,” Stephen said through his teeth.
Jeff and Angie knew by Stephen’s tone that the meeting was over, and they quickly grabbed their belongings and excused themselves as everyone else stood.
Stephen and Caleb shook the client’s hand.
“I can walk you out,” Caleb said to the client, then turned to Jason. “Jason, you coming?”
“I’ll meet you in the lobby,” Jason replied. He then turned his attention to Deja. “You did promise me I could take you to dinner when I came into town again. What do you say? I’m only in town for tonight?”
Deja looked at Stephen and Caleb, then back at Jason. “I don’t think that would be a good idea. You’re a client…, I’m sure we have rules against…” She was hoping Stephen or Caleb would chime.
“Actually, we don’t have any such rule. It’s a personal decision it you would like to go out with him.” Caleb said as he walked out the door.