Page 3 of Entice

“That is correct,” Kendra said, flipping the papers in the folder.

“We have depositions set up a week from today, with a hearing a week after, so you’re going to have your work cut out for you, getting up to speed.” Jordan spread his hands on the table.

“Why did you wait so long to hire someone?” Another anomaly.

Kendra chuckled. “Because he thought he could handle it himself when his paralegal went out on maternity leave.”

“There is that.” Jordan’s finger tapped against the table. “Also because I didn’t think the case would get this far.” He ran his hand over the back of his neck. “I’m in a bind. I hear you’re the best. I’m willing to pay for your expertise and time.” He named a salary.

Kendra rolled her eyes, and Crystal’s jaw dropped.

“You have to be kidding.” He had to be. She was prepared to negotiate a fair wage, but doing so would be moot. Yes, she was at the top of her field, but seriously… She shook her head.

“I’m not kidding. You’re the best. You’re not afraid of hard work or long hours. Your research skills are the stuff of legend. This salary takes everything into account.”

“It’s far too much.”

“I’ve never had anyone tell me I was paying them too much.” The humor in his voice was apparent.

“It’s definitely a first for me as well,” Kendra said.

Crystal shrugged. “Being truthful.”

“As am I. You’re worth the money.”

A tremor wracked her body at his husky tone. What was it about his voice? “All right. May I see the employment agreement?” She looked at Kendra.

“Of course.” Kendra pulled it out of the folder and passed it to her.

Crystal began reading. “Sure of me, were you?” He already had her name and certification details filled in.

“Jordan prepared it; it’s my job, but he overruled me,” Kendra said.

“I was being hopeful.” He grinned at her.

His grin sent a tingle of awareness all the way to her toes.He’s a lawyer; don’t fall for his charm.The employment agreement was standard. Crystal was still concerned about the money. She had never argued before about someone paying her too much. “The NDA?”

More papers were passed across the table. Crystal read it.

Most of it was standard, but there were a few areas of concern.

“I can’t discuss the case with anyone at all?” A bit unusual. Well, not exactly. She never talked about an active case with anyone, not even her best friends.

“I have a list of professionals you can talk with about the case and, of course, our client and those here in the office who need to know, but no one else.”

Crystal nodded. “What about the clause:There will be disclosures and other information pertaining to this case you may find personally offensive and/or disturbing.What kind of case is this?” The hair on the back of her neck stood up.

“Civil case. I can’t say more about it at this point.” Jordan sat back in his seat.

She placed the papers on the table. “I understand your client’s desire to ensure their privacy, but I need to know more before I sign anything so I can make an informed decision.”

Jordan stared at her with those mesmerizing brown eyes. “How about this? Sign the NDA, and I’ll explain. Then, if you don’t want to work on the case, no harm, no foul.” He glanced at Kendra.

“I can agree to that,” Kendra said.

Crystal frowned. This was highly unusual. Her fingers twitched. What harm could there be in signing the NDA and finding out what the case was about?

Jordan’s phone rang, and she jumped in her seat. She hadn’t realized how quiet the room was.

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