Page 81 of Matchmaking the CEO

"How is Abe feeling?" I asked as the three of us walked toward the trees. I had a soft spot for the yard. I always felt like trees had their own soul. The older they were, the more they spoke to me. Bottom line, I was just a lover of nature.

“He’s fine, his occasional ornery self,” Jeannie replied.

Jake was still holding Jeannie's arm. I was on her other side, but even with her as a buffer between us, my body still buzzed every time I caught his eye. I hadn't counted on that. I figured my body only reacted to him like that when we were alone. Apparently not. I was learning new things about myself every day.

When we reached the spot where I was thinking of putting the tables, we all stepped into the shadow of a huge fir tree.

"This is heaven," Jeannie said.

"I know, right? It feels like an actual temperature drop.”

"You’re very smart, my dear." Jeannie looked around. "Let's put the tables here. It'll be particularly good for Abe. He's not good with heat.”

"Okay, let me tell you real quick how I'm thinking of arranging the tables and also defining the perimeter with decorations so the rest of the guests don't accidentally walk in on us."

"They're going to keep the restaurant open for other guests?" Jake asked, frowning.

"Yes. I didn't even try suggesting to them to close it down. We don't have enough guests to warrant that. I'm sure they won’t agree to it."

"I'll talk to them."

He had his alpha business voice on. My panties shifted down my hips a couple inches. I was surprised they didn't drop altogether.

"No, you won't," Jeannie said. "I don't mind if there are other people around. Let them do the best for their business."

"Grandmother—” Jake began.

"My birthday, my rules, remember?"

I tried very hard to suppress my laughter as Jake looked positively perplexed. Clearly this wasn't something he usually heard from other people. But he didn't argue with his grandmother. Oh, I was enjoying this side of him very much. I found it absolutely endearing that he liked to indulge her in all things.

I felt Jake's gaze on me as I moved around, showing them where the tables would be as well as the buffet. With so many people, it was easier to have a set menu. The restaurant agreed to having chafing dishes and the staff managing them.

"And here, I'm going to set up a huge table for you and Abe and all your grandchildren." I pressed my lips together. I specifically didn't mention which brothers. Jeannie told me to put everyone at the same table. After my weekend with Jake, I wasn't sure that was the best idea, but still, Jeannie was my client.

Jake’s eyes turned hard. "All five of us."

"Oh, don't be such a spoilsport," Jeannie said. "It's my birthday. I want you boys to chat with each other a bit."

"Grandmother!" His voice sounded dangerous. I had a hunch that there was a limit to his indulging Jeannie, but I just wasn't sure where that was. Sitting with his half brothers? Talking to them? Being civil? I guess I was going to find out.

"Natalie, be a dear and help me here."

Jake moved his gaze to me. It was hard but also smoldering, like he was practically imagining me naked.

Oh no! He couldn’t do this to me in full view of Jeannie... or anyone else. I was prepared to act professional and be on her side, but he was disarming me with his gaze and charming smile.

Wait a second! One corner of his lips was up in a half smile. He knew exactly what he was doing.

Oh really? He thinks he can convince me to take his side just because he’s been in my pants? Because he somehow looks even hotter today? He has another thing coming.

“I think Jeannie has a point,” I cut in. “Besides, parties are social events. It's a great opportunity to mingle with all the guests.”

"Thank you, Natalie. You're a darling. You'll bring their spirited minds together.”

I was about to ask what she meant by that when she abruptly added, “I'm going to the restroom. You two carry on."

"Do you need me to show you where it is?" I asked. I wasn't sure if being alone with Jake was such a good idea.

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