by D. Camille
“Would you like some music?” he asked.
Sage shrugged. She doubted she and Jordan shared taste in music. She loved all kinds of music from rap to Neo Soul to reggae. He on the other hand probably only listened to Top 40 music. She smiled to herself at that thought.
“Although it's beautiful, what's with the smile?” he asked peering at her.
“Nothing, I just doubt we have the same ummm, taste in music,” she answered.
“Meaning?”
“Meaning nothing. Just a statement,” she hedged.
“Hmmmm, how old are you?” he asked glancing over at her.
“Twenty-five.”
“So you probably like to listen to what Drake? Nicki?” he queried.
Sage nodded. “I can get down to some Drake and Nicki but I'm diverse,” she acknowledged. “You, on the other hand, I'm not so sure.”
“So what do you think I listen to?” he asked amused now.
“Like Top 40 or something?”
“Top 40!” he roared. “Damn baby how old do you think I am?”
“Ummm, it's not your age...” she trailed off.
He frowned. “Then what is it?”
Sage turned in her seat to him. “I mean, you seem sort of… stuffy, but not in a bad way,” she hurried.
He shook his head up and down. “So you think I'm stuffy in a good way?”
She covered her face in her hands. “I'm sorry. That sounds so rude.”
When she heard the first notes to California Love come through the surround sound speakers she uncovered her face. “Nooooo, I don't believe it.”
The intro came through and when Dr. Dre began the lyrics Jordan was reciting them right along with him. He even had the swag in full effect. Sage's mouth made a big “O” as she watched him rap the first verse. While the hook played Sage nodded at him in appreciation, then when Tupac started the second verse, she took over. When the hook came back they both were rapping and bobbing their heads to the beat. When the song ended he looked over at her. “So is that stuffy in a good way?” he asked.
She laughed and he felt that thing again in his chest. She lifted her hands in surrender. “I was wrong, so wrong. You got me there,” she admitted.
“Don't sleep on me baby girl. I'm a man of many talents.” He turned back to the road. “Many talents,” he repeated softly.
Sage felt her breath catch at his softly spoken statement understanding the meaning completely. She wasn't touching that with a ten foot pole because she had no doubt he'd spoken the truth.
After a while she slid a look at him. “I bet that's the only rap song you know,” she said slyly.
He threw his head back and laughed. “Pick a song,” he challenged.
Sage could never resist a dare. “You're on.”
All the way to Ray's house they rapped and sang songs. To Sage's surprise, Jordan indeed was a man of many talents and also musically diverse. He is repertoire of music was vast. She even noticed that he had a great singing voice. When they pulled in front of the house Jordan cut the engine and exited the car coming around to open her door for her. He offered his hand and helped her out.
“Thank you,” he said gently.
“For what?” she asked looking up at him.
“For waiting for me to open the door for you,” he replied. “It's a pet peeve of mine when ladies don't wait to have the door opened for them.”
She smiled. “Well thank you for being such a gentleman. Your mother taught you very well.”
“My father.”
“Excuse me?”
“My father taught me,” he clarified gruffly.
“Well your father taught you very well,” she amended.
He stepped back. “Thank you,” he said quietly.
He moved to the trunk to retrieve her bags. Closing the trunk he followed her up the walkway to the front porch. Sitting the bags aside he retrieved the keys Ray had given him to give to Sage.
“Excuse me.” He stepped in front of her and opened the door. Stepping back he allowed her to enter first following behind with her cases in tow.
In the living room he sat her bags by the stairs and turned to her. Jordan handed her the keys. “Ray said to give these to you.”
“Thank you,” she said reaching for them. Their hands touched and her eyes lifted to his. Slowly she removed the keys from his hand and moved quickly to place them in her bag that she'd thrown on the sofa. She was nervous now. Jordan would say his goodbye and good riddance and she would probably not see him again. She had no plans to be hanging around Ray and his friends but a part of her did want to see Jordan again. She took a deep breath and walked back over to where he stood by the stairs.
“So...,” he said slowly. “If you're hungry I'd like to take you out to dinner.” He watched her face and continued. “Ray doesn't get in until later tonight and I know that airplane food isn't exactly gourmet,” he finished with a smile.
Sage was annoyed by the feeling of relief she felt. This was Ray's friend. He was simply doing Ray a favor by picking her up. She shouldn't be happy to spend more time with him.
“I don't want to take up anymore of your time,” she said looking away.
“I had planned to ask you to dinner so I don't have any other plans,” he said smoothly.
“Umm, I would need to shower and change first,” she hedged.
“I can wait.”
He was right. She hated airplane food so much she hadn't eaten practically the entire trip. She looked back at him and made up her mind. “I'll try to be as quick as possible,” she said grabbing her suitcase.
“Take your time. As I said, I don't have any other plans.”
She started up the stairs, then stopped and turned back looking down at him and smiled. “Thank you Jordan,” she said softly and turned back heading upstairs.
Jordan collapsed on the sofa placing his hand on his forehead. Ray's sister, Ray's only sister, Ray's baby sister. Ray is a freaking killer and so was his sister. She was a killer of a different kind. She wouldn't just hurt a man; she'd steal his heart, his soul, his very being. He'd take her out to dinner and make it his business to never see Sage Parker again. Before he knew who she was he knew she was danger Now after spending a little time with her he realized she was even more dangerous than he ever imagined.
************
Sage felt strange undressing and taking a shower with a stranger downstairs in her brother's living room but she knew the last thing she had to worry about was Jordan trying to hurt her. If Ray had sent Jordan to pick her up, he knew everything about him for sure. This meant that he was no threat to her, at least not physically. Emotionally was a different story. She knew why Ray had sent Jordan to pick her up. Jordan was everything that usually turned her off. He was a suit. He was wealthy. He was stuffy. There was no way she would be interested in someone like him, but interested she was she had to admit. It wasn't just his looks. She'd been around and photographed hundreds of good looking sexy men. It wasn't his money, although you could tell he was accustomed to it, it didn’t impress her. It was the undeniable power that he possessed and it was lethal to a girl’s heart.
She showered and dressed then headed downstairs. Jordan was sitting on the sofa watching some sports show. He hadn't heard her come down the stairs and this gave her time to study him. He was relaxed. He sat as though he owned the world and didn't have a care; as though everything moved at his pace and not vice versa. His white dress shirt stretched across his taut chest and his slacks showed rock hard thighs. As she looked him over she remembered her first thought of him. He was beautiful.
“I'm ready,” she said and he turned his head toward her. He gave a slow perusal from her head to her feet and then back again. The look in those dark eyes made her take a step back. He rose from the sofa like a king and walked towards her stopping just inches in front of her.
Sage had taken extra care to fix herself up for dinner. She taken her braids down and now her hair was a krinkly halo down
to her shoulders. She had always worn her hair natural and would braid or twist it up then wear it down when the occasion arose. From the look on Jordan's face he appreciated the style. She decided on wearing a boho dress that came just below her thighs with a square neckline and short sleeves. It was a pattern that was flattering to her skin tone with lots of reds and oranges mixed in. She'd added some high heeled strappy sandals and a few pieces of African jewelry. With a light dusting of makeup, some mascara and lip gloss she was complete. Sage wasn't one to pack on a lot of makeup and much preferred the natural look.
“Your hair,” Jordan said still staring at her.
“I took my braids down. I didn't think you'd want to take me anywhere with my cap and braids.” She gave a light laugh.
Jordan stood still staring at her. He slowly lifted his hand and touched her hair on the ends near her shoulder. She was eye level with his neck and the bottom of his chin. He moved his hand to her chin and lifted her face to his until their eyes met.
“You are so very beautiful.”
“Thank you.”
She felt his thumb move across her chin as she continued to look into those brilliant dark eyes. He removed his hand and stepped back. “Let's have dinner.”
“Let me grab my keys,” she said moving around him to the sofa. Sage retrieved her bag, got the keys out and headed towards the door.
After she exited onto the porch Jordan held out his hand for the keys which she obliged. He turned and locked the door before handing the keys back to her. At the car he opened the door and waited until she was seated before closing it and heading around to the driver's side. It was late afternoon and the sun was still shining brightly. Sage again adorned her sunglasses as well as Jordan.
“Is there anywhere in particular you would like to go?” he asked.
“No. I've only visited here a few times with Ray but I trust you. Whatever you choose is fine.”
She turned toward him in her seat and Jordan got a glimpse of silky brown thigh before returning his eyes to the road. He told himself to keep his eyes on the road because if he kept looking at Sage Parker he was going to be in a lot of trouble.
When he'd turned his head and saw her standing at the landing of the stairs he'd lost his breath and his mind. Before he'd known it, he'd risen from the sofa and started walking towards her. He'd regained his sanity when he was just inches in front of her then he'd touched her hair. He'd had to feel that glorious curly hair framing her head. It had been soft to his touch. He didn't even want to think about the rest of her. That dress...damn....that dress. It showed her beautifully shaped, slightly bowed, smooth brown legs. A hint of fluffy soft golden cleavage peeked above her neckline. Finally those lips...glossed again but this time with a hint of color. He glanced over at her again creating his own peril. She'd said she trusted him. That was probably not a good idea, because right now he didn't trust himself.
“There's a little spot I like. I think you might like it too,” he said watching her mouth.
She smiled. “Sounds good to me.”
Jordan turned his attention back to the road and again away from that thing in his chest.
Chapter 3
On the way to the restaurant Sage spent her time looking at the sights and getting herself under control. She reminded herself again that Jordan was Ray's friend and he was simply doing a friend a favor and babysitting his kid sister. He'd said she was beautiful but he probably told women that all day and night. He hadn't been forward in anyway or crossed any lines. She just wanted to understand this...this...attraction to him. She turned and watched his profile behind his sunglasses. He handled the car with complete control although he seemed to be somewhere in thought himself. Probably thinking how quickly he could get rid of her and get back to his life. He surely had some woman waiting for him later tonight, she thought. She turned back to the window and continued to watch the scenery.
Jordan had been aware of Sage's scrutiny. He hadn't turned to return her stare. He had to figure out how she caused this thing in his chest to come to life. It wasn't her beauty. Although she was a very beautiful woman he'd had more than his fair share of beautiful women. He wasn't fazed by a pretty face or sexy body. Hell, she hadn't even given him any indication that she even liked him, let alone that she wanted to get with him. Then, on top of everything else, she was Ray's sister. That alone should have ceased any thoughts and...and...feelings. He hadn't made any plans for tonight but after taking Sage back home, he just might have to create some.
When they arrived at the restaurant Jordan retrieved his suit jacket from the back of the car before exiting and coming around to her side to open the door for her. As he escorted her inside he was greeted by, “Hello Mr. Black”, “Welcome Mr. Black”, and “What can we get for you Mr. Black?”
Once they were seated and alone Sage smiled across the table at him. “You're a very popular man Mr. Black. I thought they were going to roll out a red carpet for you at any moment,” she teased.
Jordan shrugged and stared back at her. “I come here often. They have good food and good people.”
“So what exactly do you do Jordan?” she inquired.
The waiter brought them water and silverware and informed them he would be back to take their orders.
Turning his attention back to Sage, Jordan answered her question, “I own a holdings company.”
She waited for him to continue. When he didn't Sage pursed her lips. “Modesty is not your strong suit Jordan. I can tell it's more than just ‘I own a holdings company’.’” She put up one finger to him indicating wait one minute. She pulled out her phone and proceeded to Google Jordan and his company. As she read the screen her mouth flew open and she lifted her eyes back to him.
“Jordan Elijah Black. CEO of Black Diamond Holdings. The largest holding company in the Los Angeles area. Jordan at thirty years of age is the youngest CEO of any holding company netting over a billion dollars.” She let out a low whistle and read the rest to herself.
“Damn Jordan. You're a boss, seriously.” She shook her head. “I own a holdings company, my ass,” she scolded.
Jordan leaned back in his chair. “Does that make you look at me differently?” he asked.
“Should it?” she shot back.
“For some it does.”
“I'm unlike anyone you've ever known Jordan. Believe that.”
“I already know Sage,” he said quietly. “I already know.”
The waiter returned to take their orders. Both Sage and Jordan placed their orders then turned to each other.
“Do you want anything to drink? A glass of wine?” Jordan asked.
“I don't drink alcohol. Water is fine for me,” Sage answered. “But please feel free if you want one.”
“I don't drink alcohol either. I like to always be in control,” he explained.
Sage shook her head up and down at him. “I see.”
“Now that you know all about me, I guess turnabout is fair play.” He smiled pulling his phone out of his breast pocket. He followed suit and looked up Sage.
“Sage Parker, award winning photojournalist known for her works in Africa, South America, Caribbean, Australia, and North America.” He continued reading out loud. “Sage attended Oxford University and is credited with speaking four languages fluently.”
“OK, stop,” she said laughing. “This is embarrassing.”
“Why? Sounds like you're a boss yourself,” he finished.
“I think you're teasing me,” she said embarrassed.
Jordan reached across the table and took her hand in his. “On the contrary baby girl, I'm amazed at how accomplished you are at such a young age. I'm truly impressed. You should be proud, not embarrassed.”
She smiled across the table at him and there it was again. That damn thing. He released her hand and took a sip of his water. Sage still felt the tingle of his touch as she reached for her own glass. When their food arrived they ate quietly each in their own thoughts.
“So what are your plans here in LA? Are you working on a project?” Jordan inquired breaking the silence.
Sage shook her head. “No, I'm planning to open a gallery to display my work. I have so many photos that I haven't sold that I think people would appreciate,” she explained.
“Sounds like a great idea, especially here in LA,” he agreed.
“Thanks. Speaking of being young and accomplished, how in the world are you running a billion dollar company at thirty?” she asked amazed.
Jordan put his fork down beside his plate. “I work. I work hard. I've always worked hard My father didn't take shortcuts or cut corners and he taught me the same.”
“You're very close to your father. I can hear the affection in your voice. Is your father a businessman too?” she asked.
Jordan lowered his head. “Um,he was. He died six years ago. A few months after I started my company,” he said quietly.
Sage looked up and placed her fork alongside her plate. “Jordan. I'm sorry for your loss. I can tell you were very close to him. I'm sure he would be very proud of not just what you've accomplished but the man you have become,” she said softly.
He looked up to stare into her eyes. “And what kind of man is that Sage?”
“A man who leaves his billion dollar company to pick up a friend's sister,” she answered.
“For all you know, Ray could have threatened me to do it.”
Sage shook her head. “First of all, you're not the type of man who would sit back and be threatened. Secondly, Ray doesn't run with punks. And lastly, underneath that suit I sense there's a brother that can get down if necessary,” she finished with a nod of her head.
Jordan started laughing. “You are something else Sage Parker,” he said watching her across the table.
“So are you Jordan Black,” she said watching him back, “So are you.”
They both went back to their dinner.
On the drive back to Ray's house Sage and Jordan listened to Jill Scott as the sun began it's decent. When they arrived Sage waited for Jordan to come and open the door for her. He helped her out and they walked side by side to the front door. He held out his hand for the keys and she obliged. Like earlier he unlocked the door and let her enter first. Once inside he handed her back the keys. Sage placed them on the table nearby and turned back to Jordan.