Page 22 of Desire
“No,” I said abruptly. “I’ll do it, and I’ll take the job.”
Rachel’s eyes grew wide with excitement. “Youwill?”
My smile was genuine even though it felt forced. I was experiencing a strange paradox. I didn’t want any other reporter to handle the investigation into Christmas Industries. I also wanted to prove to myself that I could investigate the family without feeling guilty about it. Plus, Bryn had taken off to God knew where with Dale Rumor. Spencer and Asher wouldn’t give a damn if I felloff the face of the earth, and apparently, neither would Jasper. At least that was what I needed to believe in order to perform my due diligence in the investigation of gross sexual misconduct allegations.
“Why not?” I asked. “You were right. It’s time I take that huge next step into the next stage of my career.”
“Yes,” Rachel shouted as she pumped her fist. “I promise you, thisis the best decision you’ve ever made. You’re my last hire. Tonight, I’m going to introduce our entire team at the Gold Star Gala.”
My mouth fell open. “Gold Star Gala? I didn’t bring anything to wear to a gala.”
“This is New York. We can get what you need like”—she snapped her fingers—“that.”
The impact of what had just occurred hit hard. “Wow. Did I just accept a new job?”
Rachel shot to her feet. “Yes, and this is your new office.” She extended a hand.
My eyes took in every aspect of my surroundings. “Nice,” I said, nodding.
She grinned wryly. “Catch.” I opened my hands as she tossed me the keys to my new office. “By the way, I knew you would say yes.”
I tossed my head back and laughed. “Whatever.” She was so wrong. “By the way, the payis still what you quoted me yesterday?”
She stretched her arms out wide. “Plus a big fat bonus. Truly, Holly, I’m elated to have you on board. I saved you for last because I knew you’d be the hardest to convince. However…” She narrowed an eye.
“However what?” I asked, mirroring her expression.
“It wasn’t as difficult as I thought it would be, and I’m guessing Jasper Christmashas a lot to do with it. Are you sure you can handle him?”
No, I wasn’t. “Yes, I’m sure. I’m a professional. You know that. Plus, this thing that was going on between Jasper and me is over. Kaput.”
Rachel studied me as though she were looking for cracks in my resolve. I worked like hell to keep a straight face and not show her any.
“Okay,” she finally said. “I’m glad to haveyou onboard, but please be careful with Jasper Christmas. I always thought he was a little damaged.”
“Damaged?”
“It’s possible he doesn’t have a soul.”
My first inclination was to defend Jasper, but my intuition told me to heed her warning and heed it well.
