Page 126 of Second Chance for Mr. Alden

“My father had one just like it.” His voice sounded strained.

Jess stilled. “Are you sure?”

“It might not be the same one,” I cautioned, not wanting to get the man’s hopes up.

“Was there peculiar writing inside?” His voice grew raspy.

Jess’s eyes widened. She nodded.

Jareth pushed back the sleeve of his right arm and showed us the tattoo that went from the inside of his wrist to his elbow. “Does it look anything like this?”

“I think so,” Jess whispered.

Jareth grabbed the book from the floor, quickly flipping through the pages.

Jess and I stayed quiet as his eyes moved back and forth. She moved to sit in my lap while we waited for Jareth to finish.

He stood in the middle of the room. Both of us barely breathing as he searched through the pages. Time had no meaning as we watched various emotions fly across his face before he finally looked up, his face set in anger. “Call your friend, Gage. Let him know I have dates and account numbers from twenty years ago to start with.”

I grabbed my phone and dialed Gage, knowing he’d work all night if he had to. The moment he answered I explained what I found and recited the information Jareth read to me.

It wasn’t a lot to go by and it had been twenty years ago, but maybe we’d have some luck and a handful of the accounts would still be in use. There were also a few passwords listed and we hoped Gage could figure out what they belonged to.

Once Gage had everything, I picked Jess up in my arms prepared to carry her to the car. She was tired physically and emotionally. And I wanted to be the one who took care of her.

“I can walk,” she replied and gave me a peck as she slid down my body. “Let’s go home.”

I grabbed the bag, and shoved my contract inside, refusing to leave either behind.

Jess face Jareth. “Are we good?”

“Good?” He asked.

“Yeah. We found proof that my parents had shady dealings and maybe we can find a way to prove that your dad wasn’t involved. I need to know that you can help me fix this company Jareth, and not continue to take it apart.”

His dark eyes stared at Jess for a beat before looking down at the blue notebook he still held in his hand. “My father once loved the company. For him, I’ll work with you during the transition and fix what I’ve put in motion.”

“Thank you. Peace out, Jareth. See you tomorrow to slay some motherfucking dragons.” Jess held her hand up for a high-five as she passed Jareth.

He held his hand up to hers and dutifully hit her hand.

He and I grunted our goodbyes.

It was time to go home and prepare ourselves for tomorrow. I already knew nothing was going to be the same.

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