“You seem awfully confident, Ms. Walker,” Emmy said. “Do you always get what you want?”
“Always. I take pride in hunting down what seems elusive, and please call me Maggie.” The powerful smile on the CTO’s lips was nothing compared to the hungry look of desire in her eyes. Her look lingered.
Emmy felt like sliding down in her chair after the gaffe. Damn, I can’t believe I walked into that sexually charged innuendo. Where the hell is my brain? She shuffled in her chair to get more comfortable. It did no good. She could sense Maggie’s eyes already undressing her.
The CTO pressed on. “You could wait until the deal is sealed, but you’ll miss a larger profit. Get in before the public announcement and make a killing.”
We would make a small fortune if you’re telling the truth, but can I trust you?
As if reading her mind, the CTO added, “Again, I can only give you my word.”
The beautiful woman’s intense stare had rattled Emmy. She quickly recovered. “Mr. Thornton’s large investment would help secure those deals. It seems you need us more than we need you.” Emmy abruptly stood. “I’m sorry. We have to depart for another appointment. We will be in touch soon. Thank you for the presentation.”
Calvin gave Emmy a funny look. Emmy could tell he was sold, but she had to keep a stone-cold face. As she rushed to put the paperwork in her briefcase, the CTO said to Calvin, “I’d be delighted if we could treat you both to dinner tonight.”
Without hesitation, Calvin replied, “That would be splendid.”
“Excellent. I can have a driver pick you up at your hotel around six. Would McAllister’s Bistro suit your taste? They have the best cuisine along with some international favorites.”
“Ah, they also have a nice Scotch selection.” Calvin beamed. He was smitten with Maggie’s charm.
“That they do.”
Emmy knew it would be rude not to accept. “That is generous. Thank you.”
Once in the car, Calvin grabbed Emmy. “Why did you act so unemotional like you weren’t interested? Do you think there is a problem?”
“Of course not. I was pleased. The tour of the company and presentation of their products were exceptional. Rumor has it they are dealing with Smyth Media Productions. The value of the company will dramatically increase if they make a deal with Smyth.”
“So why did you act so unimpressed?”
“Poker face, Calvin. While everything seemed in place, I had to downplay excitement. We might get a better deal if I give them the impression we might not be interested. It got us a free dinner at one of Glasgow’s best restaurants.”
“Ah, I see your point.”
“Now, my friend, as your financial advisor, you can’t continue to act like a kid in a candy store. If you want a good deal, you’ve got to give them the impression that your decision hinges on my advice.”
“Got it.”
His cell phone rang. He chatted enthusiastically. “Yes, of course, I remembered. Tonight at seven sharp at the pub. Great, I’ll see you there, James.”
Emmy glowered at him. “What are you doing? You’re not going with me tonight?”
Calvin shrugged. “I’m sorry, love. I forgot about my other business meeting. You’ll have to go without me. Please make my sincere apologies.”
“Business meeting my arse. You’re going on a date!”
“You’ve caught me. Besides, you can play hardball with that poker face much better without me.” He grinned from ear to ear. “By the way, how did you keep your eyes in your head when she was leaning over you like fresh meat and showing off her bountiful endowment? I had to silence my chuckle when your stupefied reply was, ‘Do you always get what you want?’ Better watch it, or she’ll eat you up.”
“You owe me, Calvin. And as I told you, I’m attached to a dazzling woman. I’m not a player like you. It will be business and nothing more.”
Calvin chuckled. “Ah, Lassie. I know you’ll be faithful. Still, it doesn’t hurt to let your eyes take a holiday and have some fun.”
****
Emmy called home before dinner. Scotland was five hours ahead of East Coast time. No time seemed convenient to call, and she longed to hear Jordan’s voice. It rang several times and started to go to voice mail when, at last, Jordan answered.
“Hello.” Jordan’s voice was sharp and short, and she sounded out of breath.
“Hi, sweetie. I’m pressed for time with a business dinner but wanted to say hi and that I miss you so much.”
“Hi, baby. Sorry. Things are a little crazy right now. Can’t talk long but I’m happy to hear from you.” The rushed tone was almost panicky.
“Is everything okay?”
“Yep. Busy. Love ya, but I’ve gotta get back. We’ll talk later. Gotta go. Love ya.”
Jordan hung up before Emmy had a chance to say goodbye. What the fuck was that? First, she called me baby, which I hate. Then she cuts me off. Something was wrong, but dinner with the Campbell Computer CTO awaited.
****
West Virginia
Emmy’s call came shortly after Jordan had finished calling the sheriff. God, it’s good to hear her voice, but I have to handle this mess. Gerry had shown up with his followers in the middle of lunch. They marched back and forth along the sidewalk with hateful signs: “Repent your sins.” “Homosexuality is evil.” “Don’t support her lesbian ways.” “Keep away from sin and don’t eat here.” They all chanted, “Give yourself to God or burn in hell.” She had to deal with the situation.
She headed back into the dining room. Her heart was pounding, her head was spinning, and her ears buzzed. Gerry and Robby were squaring off in the middle of the dining room among customers. God, could it get any worse?
“You don’t care about your sister or anyone else. You’re a two-bit, judging hypocrite. Get out now.” Robby shoved Gerry toward the exit.
Gerry poked Robby in the chest. “My sister’s soul is on the line. She needs help. She has to repent.” He glared at everyone in the restaurant; they were aghast at the spectacle. “If you want to help her, leave now, and don’t patronize her restaurant until she turns her life around.”
Jordan stood in utter shock. Gerry’s behavior was beyond even her wildest imagination. He spotted her.
“Jordan, we can get you help. Please, we love you. Emmy’s evil ways have blinded you and will bring nothing but pain. These perverted actions will hurt you and others.”
Robby’s voice was filled with anger. “Get out now! There’s nothing wrong with your sister or Emmy!”
Jordan stepped between them. “Emmy hasn’t made me a pervert. I love her. I don’t know who your God is, but my God is love. He doesn’t preach hate.” She hoped the slight tremble in her voice didn’t show.
No one had noticed that Reverend Anderson from the Presbyterian Church had entered. He walked up to Gerry and placed his arm around him, speaking loud enough for everyone to hear. “Son. God’s call and his love are open to all. We all must respect the dignity and rights of every person. It saddens me, but you’re the one being disrespectful. Go home, son, and pray to God. Please do not harass your sister again.”
Gerry looked like he was going to argue, but the sheriff’s deputy arrived. Jordan recognized him as one of the Williams boys. Word around town was that he was fair.
He slapped Gerry on the shoulder. His massive bulk looked intimidating, but he spoke kindly. “Sir, let’s end this peacefully. You don’t have a permit to protest, and you’ve been asked to leave. We’ve received several complaints. Please step out of the restaurant.”
Before leaving, Gerry shouted, “You all need to pray. And Jordan, you can’t hide from the Almighty.”
Reverend Anderson drew everyone’s attention as the deputy pulled Gerry outside. “Folks, it’s sad that Gerry did this. I want to stress that God does not condemn two loving committed people. God’s love is for all his children. Please practice love and not hate through Jesus Christ.”
Reverend Anderson mo
ved toward Jordan, kindness in his eyes. “I’m hungry today,” he said, cupping her face. “Can I please get my favorite sandwich and soup?”
“Salmorejo and bocadillo coming up for you, sir.”
“Extra virgin olive oil and piquillo peppers, please.”
“Of course.”
After giving Jordan a fatherly peck on the cheek, he started chatting with folks. The reverend had defused the situation and calmed the patrons. It was as if nothing had happened. Jordan and Robby headed back into the kitchen.
“I’ll get this. Go into your office and rest for a while.”
The rest of the staff mumbled how sorry they were. Jo squeezed her shoulder as Jordan shuffled past. She closed the door to her office, sank into the desk chair, and thought of the quote by Persian poet Saadi. “Have patience. All things are difficult before they become easy.”
****
Scotland
The maître d’ escorted Emmy toward the back of the exclusive restaurant. Maggie Walker was sitting by herself at a table set for three. The fireplace and a window overlooking the garden made it a romantic location. This was going to be uncomfortable, and the CTO wouldn’t make it easy.
Maggie was gorgeous and dressed to impress. Her hair was down and flowing. She wore a silky green dress that highlighted her eyes and showed off her cleavage. Emmy did not know whether the intention was for Calvin or her or both of them since Calvin didn’t bother to call. Damn, Calvin. You owe me.
“Mr. Thornton sends his deepest apologies. An urgent matter came up at the last minute, but he is considering the investment seriously.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. I’m pleased you came. Please sit down.”
The rest of the night remained on course until Maggie shifted closer and placed her hand on Emmy’s upper thigh. The provocative gesture instantly achieved its desired effect sending small tingles through Emmy’s body. She delicately removed the CTO’s hand and flatly responded, “I am here only for business. I will talk to Calvin, and you’ll have our decision within a couple of days.”
“Thank you. That’s all I ask.” Maggie flashed her perfect smile.
“And by the way, you’re a beautiful woman, but I’m in a serious relationship.”
“My apologies. You can’t blame a girl for trying.”
“Apology accepted. Let’s keep the evening focused on business and nonpersonal topics. So, tell me how you feel about Scotland’s recent attempt at independence?”
Emmy knew Calvin could go on forever discussing politics. Fortunately, the same was true for Maggie. The woman’s face lit up, and the conversation wholeheartedly dove into politics. Awkward issue diffused. She never touched Emmy the rest of the night. Still, Emmy felt guilty for even admiring Maggie’s beauty.
****
West Virginia
“Hi, Em. I’m sorry it’s late. I needed to hear your voice.” Jordan’s exhaustion hung in the air like dead weight.
“I’m happy you did. I’ve been worried after the odd call earlier. You were curt with me. Is something wrong?”
Jordan sighed. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. Gerry showed up at the restaurant with followers carrying signs of hate. You called in the middle of the situation when my hair was on fire.”
“Oh my God. What happened?”
“They were chanting outside for me to repent and harassing people. Things got out of hand when Gerry came into the restaurant screaming.”
Emmy could hardly believe what she was hearing. “I’ll cut my trip short and be home as soon as possible.”
“No, don’t do that. We got through. Although, I thought Robby was going to punch his lights out before the deputy arrived. Also, Reverend Anderson just happened to drop by for lunch and gave Gerry a dressing down. I had a restraining order served to Gerry and his devoted homophobic groupies. They shouldn’t be back anytime soon.”
“Sweetie, you’re hurting now, and I can’t bear it.”
“I’ll make it through, Em. I won’t let this beat me down. You’ve got a couple more days. Finish it up. We’ll have a private celebration when you get home.”
“I’ll hold you to that promise. I love you and miss you.”
“Me too. Talk to you tomorrow. Love you.”
Chapter Thirty
Aberdeen, Scotland
The next day was the meeting with the Aberdeen North Sea Oil and Gas Company. Emmy had no real interest nor much experience investing in the energy sector. Sure she had a slice in the portfolio, but it was in solid, large companies. Aberdeen was still a midsize company, and she felt more nervous about the future of energy in the North Sea.
The briefing droned on and was the most boring presentation she had ever seen. It was difficult to be attentive and responsive. She thought of Jordan. Oh, how she wished she was home.
“Ms. Russo, do you have any reservations about traveling in a helicopter?”
The statement snapped her back to reality. “Helicopter?” Glaring at Calvin, she said, “No. Mr. Thornton is the only one visiting your field operations.”
“Oh, Emmy. It will be fun, and we will only be out there for a half of the day.” Calvin mockingly batted his eyes.
Half a day, my arse. What is Calvin doing? She was getting pissed about this entire trip. Now he was putting her on the spot.
The company rep sat down next to Emmy as if to apply pressure. “I assure you the trip is perfectly safe, and the weather prediction is good for the next eighteen hours.”
“Of course, she’ll come. She’s braver than me and loves exciting trips,” Calvin piped up.
Emmy gritted her teeth. Calvin was smiling at her in his famous “I dare you” grin because he knew she didn’t like to be called a coward.
“Okay. I’ll join my client.” She twirled in her chair. When the company rep turned away, she lip-synced to Calvin “Arsehole.” At which, he only chuckled.
****
West Virginia
Jordan woke up renewed but was astonished that she had been in bed for almost ten hours. After calling Robby at home to say she would be in late, she noticed a text from Emmy.
The text began with a picture of the Celtic heart. I LOVE YOU. This briefing is boring. I wish I were with you now. Calvin wants me to go on a field trip with him. In a helicopter of all things. Talk to you soon. Love, Emmy
After reading the text twice, she called her mom. It was highly likely that she had heard the news about the incident with Gerry.
“Oh, Jordan. My heart aches. How do you feel?”
“It shook me up at first but I’m doing okay now.”
“You’ve got a big heart and a tremendous amount of strength. I’m proud of you.”
“Thanks, Mom. You’re the best.”
“Today will be a better day. Dave and I have decided to come for dinner. Could you make us a reservation for five thirty? We’re in celebration mode.”
“I’ll save you a great table near the windows. What’s the occasion?”
Through giggles, Gwyneth managed to say, “We’ve made a decision on our wedding date.”
“So what is the date or are you going to make me guess?” Jordan listened to her mother snickering. Obviously, she wanted to drag the date out for effect, but Jordan was biting her lip. While she was happy for her mom, it was still a lot to process.
“June twenty-eighth.”
“I thought you were planning an early December honeymoon in Mexico.”
“We’ll go another time. So, I proposed June twenty-eighth and our relatives and friends can stay through the Fourth of July holiday.”
“That’s great. December is too risky with the weather anyway. It’s also better for planning since we’ve got over a year.”
“We’re getting married this year.” Gwyneth laughed.
Stunned, Jordan didn’t know how to react. “Mom, that’s four months away,” she blurted out at last. “How can we plan a wedding so fast? You’re not planning a justice of the peace thing are you?
”
“Of course not, but since we’ve been sneaking around for over a year, I thought we should take the plunge. Maybe you can help Angie with planning.”
Holy crap. They were serious as a heart attack. Her mother was not thinking clearly in her haze of joy. Angie did want to be the wedding planner, but she was going to be the one having the heart attack. She wondered if the kids would be out of school.
“Sounds like a plan,” was all Jordan could say. Who was she to spoil their happiness?
****
As Jordan drove to the restaurant, the wedding consumed her thoughts. Angie would do the planning, and Jordan’s restaurant would be providing the food. The timing was awful. The Fourth of July was the height of the tourist season.
She called Emmy, but the message went straight to voice mail. She recapped her mother’s wedding plans and ended the message with, “Now the challenge is to get my mind off the recent ugliness, and there’s a happy event to look forward to. Em, I love you. See you soon.” She parked in the back of the restaurant.
She walked in a good half hour before they opened. “Good morning, everyone.”
“You’re here. Wonderful!” Jo hugged her and shouted, “Robby, she’s here.”
Everyone was looking at her like they had won the lottery. They were always a happy crew, but today, they were overzealous.
“Okay. Who has the happy pills? Something’s going on.”
They all stood with the same positive crazy looks. Robby came in and ran over to her, wrapping her in his arms and twirling her around. He was a big guy, but she was no light feather.
“Wow. I’m dizzy now. Is someone going to tell me what is going on? You all are grinning like monkeys who escaped from the zoo.”
“Did you drive down Main Street?” Robby could barely contain himself.
“Ah, no. Should I?”
Jo grabbed her by the hand and started pulling her along. “Come out front. We’ve got something to show you.”
Falling for Love Page 22