Page 13 of Forever Mine

Chapter 6

“Are you serious?” I edged sideways on the metal seat to face Scott.

He pushed a hand through his hair, as he nodded. “I’ll in Jamaica for eight weeks doing pretty much the same thing I’m doing at this conference, only in a lot more detail. The project is being funded by one of your training agencies.”

He squinted at the aquarium in front of us. “I don’t remember the name.”

“The NTA,” I supplied, while excitement bubbled in my chest.

“That’s it.” He nodded and slapped his knees. “So, in another three weeks, I’ll be on the island training young adults who want to make a career of animation.”

“That’s awesome.” I held my breath as a flash of inspiration came to me. “Will you have time to do some freelance work?”

“What are you thinking?” He said, spreading his feet on the floor.

We sat in an open area of the seaquarium where people passed us coming and going to various exhibits. The trip had been organized as part of the fun activities, and we’d come with the group from the hotel.

“We have a new set of graphic artists who are not at Joey and Pete’s level, but they need every bit of experience and exposure they can get.” I pointed at him. “You being there would be the perfect opportunity from them to learn more without leaving the island.”

Scott’s hair moved in time with the bobbing of his head. “I’ll look at my schedule, but it should be doable.”

“Tell me what your fees are, so I can let my boss know and if they’re not out of reach, we can make the arrangements.”

His gaze was sharp when he frowned. “You have the authority to make that kind of deal?”

Smiling wide, I said, “Don’t I look trustworthy?”

“Of course, you do, but—”

“It’s a small company and I make many of the decisions since my boss is away frequently.” I sat back while a gaggle of noisy children passed our seat. When their chatter faded, I leaned toward Scott. “She trusts me to make good recommendations. She also knows I’d never suggest anything that would harm the business.” I waited a beat before adding. “It’s how I make my living, you know.”

“Okay, with that said … ”

When he told me his fees, my eyes widened.

He chuckled. “What?”

“You’re that good, huh?”

His tone was a little cocky when he said, “You’ve seen for yourself what I do.”

“Get real, I’ve only listened to you talking for a couple of hours.”

“That’s long enough for you to know whether I have a clue to what I’m talking about or not.”

“All right, you’ve got me.” I raised both hands in surrender. “You know your stuff. Anyhow, I still think this is a viable idea. We may not be able to pay what you’re asking, but—”

Arms folded, he let a slow smile pull at his lips. “Did I say I’m open to negotiation?”

“I don’t know if I like the sound … ” After watching him smirk, I added, “or the look of that.”

He laughed and folded his arms. Another group of adults and children went past us before he said, “You don’t know what’s going on in my mind.”

“I’ll bet it’s something that won’t be to my advantage.”

“How d’you know? Like I said, you don’t know what I’m thinking.”

“Okay, Mr. Fine, tell me what’s on your mind.”

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