Page 112 of Jett

“Jett will take care of you, just like he did the other night when he stood up to those vicious piranhas.”

I take a sip of my iced tea. It's refreshing and cold, and exactly what I need. “I was really surprised he did that.”

“Were you?” Celine asks. “Is he a difficult boss?”

That question is one I can't answer without giving too much away.

She nods. A knowing nod. “I see something different in him this time. Heart.”

“Heart?” I echo.

“He's always been cold, closed off, arrogant, a bit—you know—brutal, except when he's with Brooke.”

“You see that too,” I murmur.

“But I see his softness around you too. He's protective over you, and when he spoke up for you and told Tiffany and her odious sister what they needed to be told ...”

I open my mouth.

“Don't tell me anything, honey, not until you're 100% sure.”

My fingers brush the condensation on my glass.

“What are your plans after you leave?” She changes the subject, thank God.

I tell her about the florist shop, the one that brought my mom so much pleasure when she was lying on the hospital bed. “I want to do something for myself. I'm a PA, but I can do more. Something for me. Something that would bring happiness to people, when their world is filled with misery and pain. It's a small thing, but it's something. I saw how my mom's face would light up each time I walked in with fresh flowers.”

“I can see that about you. “You’re kind and thoughtful, and I can see you doing something that brings happiness to people. That’s rare.”

Her words settle something in my chest.

“You’re also not afraid to stand up for yourself, from what I heard when Abigail and Madison accused Brooke.” She chuckles.

“I would defend Brooke with my life. That poor little girl. No one is going to say a mean word to her while I'm around.”

“There she goes, Mama Bear.” The label makes my heart boom.

I lower my voice. “She doesn't have a mommy, and now she's asking me mommy questions. It's a difficult age.”

“Yes, it is,” Celine agrees. “I can see she's so happy around you.”

“It's been a memorable trip and I'll be sorry to leave.”

“Maybe we'll see you again?” Celine asks, and I don't know in which universe that will happen.

I shrug and say nothing.

“Thank you for having us,” I say when it’s time to leave.

She hugs me tightly. “You can call me anytime, Cari. You’re always welcome here.”

“And when you travel to New York next time, look me up.” I pull out a little pocket notepad from my bag and scribble my address and phone number on it.

“Just be careful with your heart, Cari,” she says gently, but her meaning is clear.

Chapter 40

JETT

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