Page 44 of Deal with Mr. Cruel

Jonas stood swiftly and walked out of the conference room. He felt like an idiot. He was so close to making a mistake. Mae didn’t deserve that, fake married or not. As he made his way back to his office, he scrolled through his contacts until he landed on Mae’s number. He wasn’t about to tell her what happened with Victoria, not after he reassured her he only wanted her. It was the truth, but sometimes old habits died hard.

He could really use Mae’s help with this vendor mishap, and truthfully, he just wanted to see her. To be close to her. He knew she could calm him down, and right now he was stressed.

Delvin’s was a city favorite. It was a popular place on game day because of the sports paraphernalia all over the walls. They served the best gourmet game day food. The owner had been close with Jonas’s father. Theyhadto be a part of the festival. It was tradition.

He typed outSOSand hit send. He watched impatiently. Finally, three dots appeared and he waited for her to respond.

Mae:In a meeting with Braydon. Be there soon.

Jonas smiled and set his phone on his desk.

Fifteen minutes later, he heard a soft knock at his door.

“Yes?”

“It’s me.” Mae pushed open the door and waited at the door hesitantly.

Jonas smiled and waved her in. “Come in, come in. That was a quick meeting,” he said, checking his watch.

“Braydon said it was a wife’s duty to help her husband when he’s in need.” Mae rolled her eyes and took a seat across from him. “So, what’s up? Why the SOS?”

“Delvin’s just called to back out.”

“What? Oh, my gosh. They’re our biggest vendor.”

“I know. This is bad, Mae. I can just feel my father laughing at my failures.”

Mae looked at him with a surprised sadness in her eyes. He hardly ever opened up about his father, especially since his passing. The pressure was mounting more than ever, though. He just needed someone to talk to. Not someone. Mae.

“Jonas.” She reached over and put her hand over his. It was soft and smooth, and sent warmth through his fingers and arm. He looked at her hand on his.Thiswas what he needed.

“Look at me,” said Mae gently.

Jonas looked up and met her gaze.

“Despite the relationship with your father, I think he would be proud of you. He left this job to you because he knew you could do it.”

“I’m not so sure lately.”

“Well, I’m sure,” she said, giving his hand a squeeze.

“This is my big chance to prove myself. To have people see that I am capable.”

“Jonas, you’re the hardest worker I know. Everyone knows it. Hell, you broke my heart because of it.”

“Mae—” Jonas looked at her remorsefully.

She waved him away. “The past is in the past. I’m just saying, people are well aware of what you’re capable of. We will sort out a new food vendor. Everything is going to be okay.”

He watched as she smiled at him, nodding reassuringly. She really believed in him. He was so thankful for her in that moment. Maybe she was what he needed. Why couldn’t there be work and love, especially if it was with someone who supported you?

“Thank you, Mae,” he said softly.

“Of course. Now, how can I help,hubby?” she asked with a grin

“I need you to try and find a new vendor. I’ll send Wendy with you, as she has a list of contacts.”

Mae nodded. “It’s last minute, but we will try. What areyougoing to do?”

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