by S. J. Maylee
“Jane, hi. Thanks for helping me again. I need another app developer, same experience you found for me last year.”
Maybe her luck wasn’t spent after all, that or fate was playing a nasty trick. “Excellent. I think I know of a match for you. He wasn’t fully committed to looking a couple months ago, but things change.”
"Do you think you could talk him into coming by tomorrow if he's interested? Time is critical."
“I’ll contact him now and confirm with Anne later today.”
“Thanks, Jane.” The phone disconnected.
Keller, always the efficient one.
She opened her notes from the convention and searched for the contact information. Excitement danced through her, two birds with one stone. She finally had an excuse to call Rob and this opportunity could advance her career, and maybe help her to pay rent at the same time. The importance of the moment turned her excitement to nervous jitters, but she tried not to think about what was about to happen.
She needed to keep her business face on. He might still not be over his ex-wife. Besides, she needed to keep to her motto: Work first and then play. The quote was one of her grandpa’s favorites. His rule would get her through the day.
She didn’t usually have the opportunity to try to fill Keller’s job openings. He had a good eye for people and often filled his positions without needing assistance.
“There you are, Rob.” She reviewed her notes quickly. He may still prefer setting his own hours, but Keller offered the kinds of opportunities that were hard to pass up. Besides, Rob deserved a fresh start. She’d hoped to have an excuse to call him and get to know him. Maybe put her face in his mind for when he was ready to move on. She reviewed her notes of countless searches for the right job, but she hadn’t found the right opening, until now.
She grabbed her phone and entered his digits.
“Hello.”
“Rob?”
“You got him.”
“Hi, it’s Jane Shavers. We met a few months ago at the tech convention. Something came in that I think you’d be perfect for.”
“I was hoping you’d call.”
“Thank you.” With that one sweet line, she remembered why she liked him so much. “I had planned on calling you before now, but I wanted to make sure I had the perfect position first.”
“You think you’ve found something to tempt me?”
“Absolutely. I just emailed you the job description. Meet me tomorrow for coffee and we can talk about this amazing company. I promise you won’t regret it. This is an opportunity worth taking the time to consider.”
“I bet you say that to everyone.”
“Sure, but I mean it this time.” She held her breath as she waited for his response.
He chuckled. “Right.”
The silence on the phone grew deafening as her heart thumped in her chest. “Come on. I’ll buy you a great cup of coffee.” She’d never get another chance to help Keller if she didn’t find him the right candidate. She also wanted to find out if Rob had taken off his ring.
“Okay, tomorrow, eleven o’clock at the place on Clark, just south of Diversey, lake side.”
“Sounds perfect, but make it nine and wear a suit.”
“Jane?”
“What? If you’re interested, I’ll take you to their offices. It’s not far from there anyway.” They’d need to take a cab ride to the edge of the city, but she’d tell him that part later, after she sold him on the company.
“Fine, but I think you’re going to owe me.”
“Deal. You have my number now in your phone?”
“I do.”
“Perfect. I’ll see you tomorrow.” She hung up before he could change his mind.
Chapter Three
Rob’s day was turning around, a date with a pretty girl and possibly a new job, not bad for a Monday. No, it wasn’t a date, more like a business meeting. It didn’t mean he wasn’t going to enjoy the company.
His luck must still be running on high from the first fantastic weekend he’d had in months. After all the dates Mistress Charlie had sent him on, the only gal who’d stayed on his mind was the one he hadn’t even dated.
After meeting Jane at the convention, he’d decided to finally take off his wedding ring. It was about time his deprivation ended. His relationship with Gina was over a long time before they’d even filed. Giving up on what he swore would be a lifetime commitment bothered him, and continuing to wear the ring had felt like his punishment.
He may not have wrecked their marriage, but he did need to find a way to move past the rubble. His weekend adventure reminded him he still had a life of his own to rebuild.
After meeting Jane, he’d wanted the ring off. He’d wanted to move on. He’d wanted to talk to her again, see her deep brown eyes again. He’d given her his contact information that day, but he’d never gotten hers and she hadn’t called. Sure, he could have found her, but at the time he had taken it as a sign. That was then, because now, after the weekend he’d had, he knew he was ready.
He picked up his phone and called his buddy. “Marcus, she called.”
“Who is this?”
“Stop it. You know what I’m talking about.”
“You think? You’ve only managed to squeeze Jane into almost every conversation since the convention.”
“No, I have not.”
“Do you want a recap?”
“Okay, fine. I’m meeting her tomorrow for coffee.” He opened his closet and searched for the right suit.
“Sounds sexy.”
“She thinks she’s found a job for me. I played the conversation perfect, had her begging.” He shifted his still hard cock to a better position.
“I’ve found the right job for you, although I understand why you won’t consider.”
“Gina and I get along fine, not sure working with her would be a good idea though. I honestly don’t know how you’re doing it. I didn’t think you two got along.” The trio had practically grown up together, although Marcus and Gina never quite got along. It wasn’t until recently that Rob had started to understand why.
“It’s only been a couple months, but working for Keller is my dream job and I hardly ever see her.”
“Maybe Jane will have my dream job and—”
“You think she’ll take you, too, huh? At least now you’re no longer wearing that stupid ring. That thing was woman repellent.”
“I was married. I’d made a commitment.” Rob tore the dry cleaner bag off his charcoal suit.
“Apparently you were the only one. I still can’t believe she cheated on you.”
“Don’t remind me, but you know that’s not why our marriage fell apart.” He balled up the thin plastic and tossed it in the direction of his trash can.
“I know why your marriage fell apart, but not to worry, I won’t say I told you so.”
“Someday we’ll talk about it. I don’t think you’re ready yet.” He walked over to where the plastic had landed, picked it up, and shoved it into the trash.
“Whatever. Speaking of ready, when are you going to check out Club Voyage? I thought Mistress Charlie had you complete the paperwork.”
“She did, but I haven’t turned it in yet.”
“You’ve denied yourself long enough. It’s time to start taking care of your needs.”
“I know. I’ll turn it in this week. After my weekend, I don’t think anything is standing in my way.”
“You can thank me anytime you want.”
“Thank you, you were right. That was what I needed. Man, it was hot, and now I’ve got a hot date.”
“You’ve got a business meeting. Don’t mess it up.”
Rob ended the call and picked up his basketball. Rolling the ball around in his hands, he paced the room. Concern took over his excitement. There had to be a way to tell the woman you wanted about the woman you no longer loved.
He’d hoped to have a first date with Jane before he had to tell her anything more about his ex-wife
. He would mess everything up if he didn’t tell her about Gina. Lack of honesty had been the ultimate dagger in his marriage. He could blame plenty on Gina, but they’d both ignored plenty. It would be a mistake he’d never make again.
“Shit, I am going to mess this up.” He grabbed his shoes and went down to the corner court. Maybe he’d think of something while he shot some baskets.
****
Jane wrapped her fingers around her warm cup and lifted it to inhale the strong aromatics. The coffee shop was quiet the morning she waited for Rob. She blew out a blissful sigh as she daydreamed about her unknown lover. Jane’s thoughts were far from her goal for the day. She waited for one man while remembering another, and, in her thoughts, she was mixing the two together for the perfect hot cocktail.
She pulled up her remembered image of Rob, handsome with kind, striking blue eyes and strong hands. Her pulse picked up its pace. She remembered daydreaming about holding onto his neck while she tugged him down for a kiss. Good thing she was just fantasizing though. Rob was probably still hung up on his ex-wife.
Jane blacked out her thoughts, closed her eyes, and remembered how she’d felt Saturday night. She didn’t need to see anything to feel his hand stroking her thigh or relive his warm mouth sucking her clit. Just like yesterday, she let her thoughts wander to that night.
Would she ever get a night like that again? Would she ever meet a man like him?
“Jane, it’s good to see you.”
“Oh,” she said shaking herself clear of her naughty memories, but took a second to admire how damn sexy he looked in his dark suit. “Hi, Rob. What can I get you to drink?”
“I’ve got my coffee.” He held up his cup. “What were you thinking of? You seemed perfectly content. I didn’t want to disturb you.”
“I have no idea.” Heat flared through her cheeks. She reprimanded herself and put her mind back on track. She stood and held out her hand. “Sorry, thanks for meeting me.”
He shook her hand with the strength she remembered from the convention. Her lover from Saturday night had held her with firmness as well. It was one of the reasons she felt free that night. His strength and confidence opened her to the experience; she’d held nothing back.
She needed his strength today to close this deal and maybe have Keller take her talents seriously. A job well done was the best way to open doors for her business. She lowered her gaze and slipped back into her seat. The doors Keller could open would make a world of difference.
“I have the job description here. Did you have any questions?” She slid her tablet across the table and noticed he no longer wore a wedding ring. Her fingers tapped a dance on the edge of the table. She was proud of him; it was a big step. “I think it’s perfect for you. It matches with your education, your experience.”
“You’re right. This sounds exactly like what I’m looking for.”
“Excellent. If you flip to the next page, you’ll find some basic details about the company. They’re growing like a weed, and all their departments have top talent. They’ll give you tons of job security.”
“Well done, Jane.” He fell silent as he finished perusing the document. “This is for William Keller’s company?”
“You’ve heard of him, right? He’s fabulous to work for.” She thought about asking him out after they closed the deal. Her luck was turning around.
“Yes, that’s what I’ve heard.”
“We can go over there right now. He’s waiting for us.” She scooted back her chair. “He started looking yesterday. You’ll be his first interview.”
“No, I don’t think so. This won’t work.”
She stopped at his statement and swallowed her disappointment as she took in his hunched posture and stony expression. Once she pulled her chair back to the table, she placed her hand on top of his. It felt good to touch him, right to comfort him.
“Rob, what is it?” She rubbed his hand and waited, feeling terrible for upsetting him. Her head cocked to the side, and she hoped he’d say something to ease her worry.
“It’s not the company. I agree. It’s the kind of company I need.” He placed his hand over hers and flipped his bottom hand around, cupping her hand in both of his.
She kissed her career move away. Maybe she’d find another perfect candidate, but she already knew she wouldn’t push him to go to the interview. This normally stoic man was squeezing her hand and pressing his lips together as if forcing out something distasteful.
Nope, she needed to find somebody new, for Keller and maybe even herself. She ignored the thoughts that left her feeling like someone kicked her puppy.
“It would be a smart career move, but only you can make that decision. I don’t know your situation.” She felt the poorer for it, too. The meeting was a complete loss. She needed to make her exit before her childish disappointment had a chance to break out into silly tears.
****
Her hand pulled away, and he let her go. The loss of her touch felt more present than the horror he once thought of ever working with Gina again. If he was honest with himself, he’d admit his apprehension had nothing to do with Gina. Nope, she was only a reminder of a commitment he let sour.
“I’m sorry to have upset you.” Her hand lay on the table just out of his reach.
He shouldn’t let his failed marriage ruin another relationship, or in this case, a career opportunity. He hadn’t even asked Jane out, yet. Besides, shortly after their divorce became final, Gina seemed to have turned a corner. They both realized her poor choices had given them the proper kick to do what they both knew needed to be done. They weren’t right for each other. She’d moved on, and after last weekend, he proved he was ready.
Gina had even been bugging him to start dating and encouraged him to attend the local BDSM meetings. She’d even promised not to attend them anymore. His buddies always referred to the meetings as munches because there were always good eats and some activity like pool or cards to help break the ice.
They both knew how helpful it was to socialize with like-minded folks. He’d never forget the first one he attended. The open and honest conversations about BDSM answered many of his questions. It was during those nights that he started to understand his needs.
His marriage hadn’t been meant to survive. It wasn’t his fault. His promises weren’t meant to be kept. He wasn’t betraying anyone by moving on. It was time to stop punishing himself and be open and honest.
“I’ll let you know if I find another opportunity.” She stood and lingered. “Thanks for meeting me today. It was good to see you again.” She took a step from the table.
“Wait.” He grabbed hold of her hand. “I’m overreacting.” He stood, leaving little distance between them. She looked beautiful, arching her neck to look into his eyes. He breathed in her sweet vanilla scent, and he felt her fingers fold around his hand.
“Are you sure?” With the positive shake of his head she continued, “It would mean the world to me if you would meet with Keller. I know he’d be impressed by you.”
“All right, let’s go.” Her excitement sealed it. “You said it’s close, but—”
“Ah, well.” She gave him a sly grin. “I’ll hail us a cab.”
He shook his head. Gosh, she was adorable when she blushed. He imagined her ass would blush just as beautifully during a round of spanking, a punishment he could envision being eager to deliver.
Marcus was right. He needed to get back into the club scene, although he couldn’t imagine finding someone as delectable as Jane at Club Voyage. With her glossy dark hair, beautiful brown eyes, and her easy way, she captured him. It felt like Jane had been tailor made for him, and he was determined not to let her go this time.
They gathered their things and left the coffee shop.
He should tell her about Gina. She should hear it from him and not someone at Keller’s office. To earn her trust, he’d have to start with honesty, and for a confession like this he wanted privacy. If they got in the cab, he’d lose h
is chance. As they neared an alley, he took her hand and steered her around the corner into the empty lane.
“What are you doing?” Her eyebrows pinched together.
“I need to tell you about my ex, Gina.”
“No, you really don’t.”
“Jane, let me share this with you.” He stroked her face and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. It was an intimacy he had no right to, but one he wanted. His mind flooded with the things he wanted to demand of her. “The first time we met, I was still wearing my ring.”
“But you’re not now.” She looked down at his naked finger.
“You noticed?” A flash of joy warmed his heart. He chuckled and took hold of her hands. “The ring had nothing to do with my feelings for Gina.” He shook his head and pulled her a little closer. “The ring represented my commitment, a commitment I had to let go.” He captured her sight once more and continued. “I can’t explain it, but keeping it on reminded me of the mistakes I made, mistakes I never want to make again.”
“Why are you telling me all this?” She looked up at him with hope and confusion.
The why filled his thoughts with heat. This strong, adventurous creature excited him. She took a step back, and he went with her. He couldn’t let her go. “I’m so glad you called me, Jane. I haven’t been able to get you off my mind since we met.” He widened his stance to give himself a stronger foundation. “Gina and I have been over for a long time, long before we even filed for divorce, but big changes, no matter how natural, take time to cope.”
“Wise words.” Her smile started shaky and eased into something that took his breath away.
“You gave me a reason to want to move on from my mistakes. I remember it being almost impossible to walk away from you that day at the convention, and I’ve been desperate for more time with you ever since.”
“I know what you mean.” She lowered her head.
He reached out and lifted her chin so he could once again see the expression in her eyes.
“We don’t know anything about each other, not really.”