Page 70 of Reckless Desire

“I’m sorry again about the last time.” I offer the seat across my desk to her. I don’t get many visitors so there isn’t another seat there, and Ash stands up and leans against the wall beside the desk. “My daughter is safe and sound, sitting outside, so there shouldn’t be any interruptions.”

“I saw her there. She is lovely. I think it’s amazing we can give you this human story aspect as well. All hot, healthy, and a single dad. The viewers would love it.” She names my attributes in a detached, mechanical way while typing on her phone. Hopefully making notes, not dealing with other business.

I’m not sure how I feel about her attributes or about dragging Caro into it. I’m not even sure if I want to do the show yet.

“I know we discussed some ideas last time, but why don’t you recap for me what the idea is and what my role would be.” My phone lights up with a message from Sydney and I force myself not to check it.

Delaney explains the idea and the expectations. I must admit the potential exposure would be significant, but what intrigues me more is that the show could actually impact people and motivate them toward a healthier lifestyle.

Ash jumps in with a few questions and I use the opportunity to glance at the message.

Sydney: Consulted the guidelines.

Finally. I have been bugging her about it since our weekend at The Ritz-Carlton, and for some reason she’s been postponing.

Sydney: We can date, Mr. Stuart, but I need to disclose the relationship officially to management, a.k.a. Dan Ravinski. Miss you. S.

I smile, grateful Ash is keeping Delaney engaged.

Me: Would you like to be my official girlfriend, Mrs. Lowe? I hear the helicopter moms are gossiping already.

Sydney: OMG. Really? Who? Why?

I imagine her blushing and chuckle to myself. Not to myself. Delaney and Ash stare at me. Correction. Delaney looks at me with amusement, but Ash glares as if I’m cheating with his girlfriend. Not like that would be a likely scenario.

“Sorry.” I clear my throat. “Continue.”

“There isn’t much to say, Hunter. Are you in or should I continue looking?” Delaney asks.

My phone keeps blinking with new messages. I can imagine Sydney is freaking out about my comment.

“Do you need to take care of that?” Ash snaps.

Jesus, he really is in a mood today.

“No, I’m good.” I give him a what-the-hell look. “If you’re ready to make an offer, I’m open to consider it seriously.”

Delaney nods and stands up. “Expect an email from me by the end of the day. I look forward to working with you, Hunter. See you around, Ash.”

“Are you for real?” Ash growls as soon as the door closes.

“It went well, didn’t it?” I shrug and unlock my screen, finding a missed call from Sydney.

“You fucking ignored her and texted during the meeting. What’s so important? Lately, you have been distracted. Is this still about Sydney? You need to get your brain out of your pants, man, and get back to business.”

What the actual fuck? Yes, I have been juggling things around, but it’s not like I’ve been slacking. In fact, I’ve been working hard, planning our next location and potential launch on the West Coast. I let Ash take a more active role at Tribeca and to a certain point here, so I can focus on growing the business.

“What’s wrong with you today? Do you need to get laid?”

“Whatever.” He shakes his head and leaves.

I stare at the door for a moment, stunned. I haven’t seen him this worked up in a long time, but I guess he’s not ready to talk about it.

I dial Sydney.

“Oh my God, why aren’t you answering?” Her exasperation rolls through the line, bringing a smile to my face.

“I’ve been in a meeting. How are you, Mrs. Lowe?” I drawl.

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