Page 11 of Every Broken Piece
“Call me Jack.”
I take a bracing breath to control my rising irritation. “I read, Jack. I enjoy close friends, going to the movies.” Lies, but I can’t admit that I read and work and rarely leave my apartment unless Amelia drags me out.
“Boyfriend? Husband?”
I blink. “Mr... Jack. That is hardly an appropriate question.” I grab my sheet of questions and wave it at him. “This meeting was supposed to be for me to get to know Mr. Strong so I can better assist him.”
“Yeah. He’s not going to make it.” A hint of remorse leeches into his tone and his look is apologetic.
“Then maybe we should reschedule.”
He takes a deep breath. “Look, Tess. Gabe’s never going to agree to a virtual meet and greet. It’s not his thing. I know you’ve been urging him to do this, but he asked me to attend in his place.”
“I see.” I don’t see. And my irritation is quickly sliding into anger. “Maybe I’m not the right assistant for Mr. Strong. It seems our approach to this relationship doesn’t align.”
“I disagree, Tess. I think you’re the exact right assistant for my brother. And I think your relationship will align in time and with some patience.”
Me: Well that was weird
Amelia: Yeah? Do tell!
Me: My client didn’t show up but his brother did
Amelia: ???
Me: :shrug emoji: I’m confused too
Amelia: This is bizarre. Was he cute?
I snort. This is so on brand for Amelia. She’s always trying to introduce me to a cute cousin, or a cute friend, or her cute brother.
Me: Idk, I guess
Most girls would probably say that Jack Sterling is cute, but I think my growing irritation at the whole fiasco tainted that for me.
Amelia: So client was a no show, but brother took his place.
Me: And asked weird questions like what I like to do in my free time.
Amelia: Did you tell him you go to raves every weekend?
Me: No!
When I get back to work, I find an email from Gabriel Strong.
From: [email protected]
Subject: Introduction
Ms. James – It appears that one of my dinner guests does have a shellfish allergy. Thank you for the good catch. I appreciate it. Can you please make the reservation for Le Papillon Doré. I cleared the menu with my client so there will be no allergic reactions.
I will also need a car with driver to meet my plane and remain available to me through Thursday.
Gabriel Strong
CEO
