9. Chapter 8
Chapter 8
Jemima
My mouth hangs open as I stare at the space he just walked out of. I bring my fingertips to my lips, still feeling the warmth of his breath. His scent lingers, pine and fresh as if he’s been wandering through the woods.
“What did he want?” Molly practically skips in.
I shake my head, still rattled by his powerful presence, but I swallow my nerves before Danny returns from his lunch break. I would prefer to keep this to myself until I figure out the right thing to do.
“He wants to help me sort this out.” I gesture at the scattered papers around the room.
Molly says, “Eek,” and claps like a schoolgirl.
I roll my eyes at her reaction. “I can’t accept his help.”
I can’t risk him taking over the company and worse working alongside his cocky self. He cannot be trusted.
“Why?” Walking over, she takes the spot Harvey just left.
I stand up and walk around my desk, gripping the edge as I feel a head rush from standing too quickly.
“Are you okay?”
“Yeah, I just need water.”
“Here.” She hands me my water bottle. “Maybe eat something too.”
Checking the time, I realize it’s not lunch yet. “No, I'll work on this baby shower concept then eat.”
“He invited you to a party?”
It’s a networking event. I shouldn’t be surprised she eavesdropped. The door was left open and, of course, she would be curious. I would be too, if a handsome, tall young man came into our office to talk to her.
“I’m not going.”
Molly's smile falls. “Why?”
Because if I go that means I accept his help with Recaredo Events.
“I can’t have him here telling me what to do.”
Trying to take over.
“Is that what he said he was going to do?”
I sigh. “Not in those words. He did bring up the networking side, which I’m interested in, but…”
“Have you thought about just trying it out?”
“No,” I mumble, thinking about it.
“You can always tell him to shove it if it’s not working. But I think you should consider Chad in this decision.”
My heart squeezes, as if she knew the right words to wear me down.
“Fine. But I still can’t go to the event.”
“Why not?”
“Single mom, remember? I can’t ask Pedro and Jade to babysit last minute.”
“I’ll do it. Hugo would love to have Chad sleep over. Plus, I owe you one.”
“Two kids for a whole night is a lot,” I say, giving an excuse.
She waves me off. “They go to sleep at seven-thirty. I’ll be fine. Stop making excuses.”
The corner of my lip lifts. “What will I wear?”
She wiggles her brows at me. “A sexy dress.”
I giggle. “Of course.”
“What are we giggling about?” Danny asks, as he strolls back in, standing in front of us, his eyes flicking between us.
“Nothing,” I say at the same time Molly answers.
“Mr. Lincoln wants to help the business succeed and wants the boss lady here to attend his party with an answer.”
I don’t bother correcting her wrong recollection. My showing up is the answer and he has no idea I’m coming unless I don’t show up at all.
I glance at the email exchange with him earlier today.
Harvey : 55 Wall Street. 6pm.
To get under his skin, I email a sassy reply back.
Me: Do I get a plus one?
He replies instantly.
Harvey: No.
Me: What if I promise they’ll behave?
Harvey: I’m not convinced you’ll behave.
Me: Who, me? I’m a model guest.
Harvey: I’m not so sure about that.
Me: I’ll show you tonight.
Harvey: I can’t wait. ??
Flirting is a fun distraction, but I don’t have time for all this. So as soon as I get close to the address, I message Molly to check in. My stomach twists with nerves, so if Chad needs me, I’ll have an excuse to leave.
Jemima: Is he alright?
Molly: He's fine! Stop messaging and go have fun.
Jemima: I’m here to work.
Molly: Well, do that tomorrow. Tonight have fun. I promise to call if I need you. Otherwise, I’ll see you in the morning.
Stuffing my phone in my purse, I take a moment to gather myself, rubbing my hands together. Not because it’s a cold night, but to shake some of my sudden nerves.
The noisy hustle and bustle of workers surrounds me, car horns blare in the distance, and I pause on the sidewalk across the road. I feel a rush of anticipation mixed with trepidation.
I don’t know anyone besides Harvey. But here in the hustle of the city, I find myself thinking of the potential work opportunities this party may bring. I just need a couple of decent events to host and figure out what went wrong, and continues to go wrong, with my company's finances.
I’m taking control of my life, and it includes tonight. I’ll accept his help, but the bottom line is, it’s still my company. He can’t come in and take over. I’ve lost everything because I let my ex do that. So I’ll never make that mistake again.
Crossing the road, I can’t help but admire the skyscraper. The city views from such a prestigious location must be incredible.
As I pass security, they nod at me in acknowledgment, and I step into the lobby. The building is sophisticated, with lights highlighting the polished marble floors. Inside, a dark-purple haired woman greets me with a warm smile, asking for my name before directing me upstairs to the event.
I enter the elevator with a few other guests, glad I chose a nicer slim black dress from Molly and straightened my hair, after seeing the couple next to me. They ooze elegance. The woman is in a floor-length emerald-green dress with her hair tied up into a neat bun, showing off her dazzling diamond earrings. Her companion wears a black velvet suit with an emerald-green bow tie, in the same shade as her dress.
When the doors open, I let them lead, mesmerized by their graceful movements, suddenly feeling out of place in my borrowed dress and old shoes. They hold hands, their connection palpable. I don’t even remember what it would feel like to do that. I can’t help but feel a pang of longing. Butch and I hadn’t been out together since before Chad was born. By the end, intimacy was just a distant memory.
Entering a grand ballroom, I take in the soft glow from the large chandelier, the decor is rich fabrics and luxurious furnishings around the space. The linen color is a little too dark here, but it’s not my event…
Servers pass me with trays of yummy pastries, the smell wafting through the air, tempting me.
Just as I’m about to grab one, the sound of Harvey’s deep, guttural voice interrupts me.
“Hey, partner.”
I close my eyes briefly, take a deep breath to compose myself, and turn to face him, ready to snap. “We’re not partners.”
“Then what are we if we aren’t working on your business together?”
“Acquaintances.”
I can’t help but let my eyes wander over him. His black tuxedo fits him like a glove, accentuating his broad shoulders and tapered waist. I’ve got to admit, he’s dangerously handsome in this outfit.
“Are you sure about that?” His eyebrow is arched, his gaze piercing mine with an intensity that sends a shiver down my spine.
He totally catches me checking him out. I’ve seen him before, but this time, I’m really taking it all in. I can’t help it; Molly’s been gushing about how hot he is and made me promise to give her every detail about him tonight.
“Very,” I reply.
“Well, come on. Let me introduce you to some people.” The twinkle in his eye says that he means business, and with that, I find myself drawn back toward the crowd.
A server with drinks stops us, and I go to grab champagne, but then I remember I’m about to meet potential clients, so I retract my hand. I need to keep my mind sharp.
Harvey leads me with a gentle hand on my lower back toward a woman with short brown hair, who introduces herself, then goes on to explain to me that she has a birthday coming up and she's planning to invite over one hundred people. Of course I’m thrilled to hand over my business card. We arrange to discuss the details next week.
I meet a few more people, each interaction fuelling my determination to succeed. Then, I’m introduced to a man in a sharp black suit who seems oddly familiar. I wonder if we’ve met before.
“Jemima, this is my brother, Oliver,” Harvey introduces.
Now I know why he’s so familiar. My Google research.
“Nice to meet you,” I say with a polite smile.
Another two men join them, all dark-haired, and before I can even take a guess, Harvey introduces them.
“These are my other two brothers, Evan and Jeremy.”
“Nice to meet you all,” I say to the group.
They all nod and greet me back, their expressions a mix of curiosity and amusement.
“You all look alike,” I comment, noticing the striking resemblance among the brothers.
“Our dad’s genes are strong,” Oliver replies with a chuckle.
“This is the CEO of Recaredo Events,” Harvey adds, his gaze flicking around to his brothers before meeting my eyes. “Make sure to grab her business card. You’re not throwing another party without her help.”
“She’s the one you’re helping,” Jeremy says with a smirk, shooting a knowing glance at Harvey.
“Yes,” Harvey warns.
“How did you get her to agree? And Jemima, I thought you’d eat him alive before you did that,” he says in a playful tone.
“Jeremy,” Harvey snaps, a hint of annoyance in his voice.
He winks. “Payback.”
I don’t know what he’s talking about, but I don’t want to tell them that the owners of my apartment complex are selling, and I could be out on the streets if I don’t find some way to save my parents' business. I shift uncomfortably, hoping my anxiety isn’t too obvious.
I meet Harvey’s gaze before turning my attention to Jeremy. “Must be his good looks,” I say, giving Harvey’s chest a light pat, hoping to steer the conversation away from my personal struggles.
They all bark out laughing.
“Good one, Jem,” Oliver says.
“I knew you had a thing for me,” Harvey says.
I roll my eyes. “Don’t flatter yourself. I like men, not boys.”
“Ouch.” Jeremy winces.
Shit, was I a little too harsh? Because he is good-looking, but he’s eight years younger and extremely well-off. He’s not on the same life path I am with my kid.
Scanning his face, I watch as a tic in his jaw pulses. His eyes harden, and I fight the urge to stand taller, suddenly self-conscious under his scrutiny.
“I’m not a boy. I’ll remind you of that one day,” Harvey retorts, a hint of sadness in his tone.
Yep, I officially hurt him. I shift uncomfortably, feeling a pang of guilt for my sharp words.
“I’m sure you have plenty of women who want?” I start.
“His money,” Evan interjects. He’s been quietly sipping amber liquid from his tumbler.
I’m definitely not a girl interested in a man’s money. I’m now in control of my life, including my finances.
“I’m not interested in anything serious. So if they want to be wined and dined for one night, then so what. I’m not harming anyone,” Harvey says.
That’s true. And what’s different about him is his honesty. First about his reasons to help me and now his expectations.
“Anyway, Jemima, I have galleries all over New York that I host many gatherings at. Would you be interested in talking about consistent work?” Oliver asks, his tone shifting to genuine interest.
My heart rate picks up, but I keep my breathing regulated so I’m not showing my feelings on my face or in my voice.
“Definitely,” I reply with a confident smile, handing him a card. All the other brothers take one too, their interest piqued.
“I’ll call you and set up a meeting,” Oliver promises, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
Harvey wears a knowing smirk, and as much as I want to wipe it off his face, I also want to kiss it.
God, he’s so fucking annoying.
“Sure, that sounds great.” I try to maintain my composure despite the mixed emotions swirling within me.
I’m starting to feel a little hot, maybe I’m just overwhelmed by all the opportunities and the presence of such attractive men. Or maybe it’s a combination. Either way, I want to go to the bathroom and compose myself.
“Excuse me,” I say, feeling the need for a moment alone. “Nice meeting you all.” I offer a polite smile before turning around.
As I navigate through the crowd in what I think is the right direction, I squint, trying to find the signs for the bathroom. I weave through the crowd of guests.
“Are you alright?” Harvey calls from behind me, his concern palpable.
“Yes,” I reply, smiling despite feeling unwell.
“You look—” he starts.
“It’s just a little hot,” I interrupt quickly.
“Hmm,” he mumbles, his gaze lingering on me.
“Why don’t you be a good boy, and stay with your brothers,” I suggest, attempting to divert his attention.
His hand grabs my waist as his mouth leans toward my ear to whisper, “I’ll be your good boy any day.” I suppress a shiver as his warm breath tickles the shell of my ear.
He’s trying to play with me, and I’m not buying it. He’s so fucking smooth, and I’m annoyed that his words make me feel a throb between my legs.
“I’m sure that works on other women, but it won’t work on me,” I snap back, gathering all the resolve I can.
I don’t want to tell him I enjoyed calling him my good boy. Fantasies are both exhilarating and terrifying. Butch was three years older than me; we had an average sex life, and he was a selfish lover. It changed over the years, just like our marriage. I miss the early days of a relationship, when everything was fun.
“What works on you, then?” he asks, his tone lowering, a hint of fire gleaming in his eyes.
Usually, that seductive tone would get me turned on, but instead, I feel clammy. I lean forward, my voice barely above a whisper. “Nothing works on me.” And then I’m about to spin on my heels and walk away, but before I can, everything goes black, and I faint, going down like a sack of potatoes.