Page 6 of Mac
“What do you mean still?”
“I mean, still.” He sounded bored. “Mac has been after you for so long now, Jack. When are you going to put that man out of his misery? Not to mention, the rest of us.”
“It’s not that easy,” she said behind the cup at her lips.
“It is that easy. You’re the one making it difficult.”
“He’s wants a one night thing. I can’t do that.”
“One night? You sure that’s what he said?”
“Yeah. Why? Do you know something?”
“I know that one night thing is a crock of shit.”
Jackie sighed. “I kinda figured it was, too.”
“Did you say yes?”
“No.”
“You are so damn stubborn.” Jaz pushed away from the door jamb. Jackie followed. He plopped on the couch and she slumped down next to him, careful not to spill her tea.
“He’s the sheriff. An elected official.”
“So? The preacher from the Presbyterian church comes in to your place twice a week for dinner. Three of the deacons from the Baptist church take turns pinching your girls on the ass.”
“What?”
Jaz chuckled. “You didn’t know?”
“No I didn’t know. If I had, I’d have put a stop to it.”
She didn’t play those kinds of games and she didn’t allow the girls who worked for her to be harassed or messed with in any way.
She was not above using her background if it meant taking down one of those self righteous assholes. She’d been arrested for much less.
“That’s why you have me. And Mac. We help out, even when you don’t know it.”
“Thank you. I should pay more attention.”
“The club grew more than you expected. Remember when you just wanted a small place that served good food and gave women with few options a job and some independence? You’ve done that. And more. Your eyes can’t be everywhere all at once.”
“Yes.” Jackie did remember and yes,Katzwas more. It had grown. Selling a little bit of sexual fantasy with food that shocked and amazed. But the club belonged to her. Responsibility for the club and what happened inside rested on her shoulders.
“He cares for you, Jacks.”
“He does,” she agreed.
“You care for him, too.”
She couldn’t deny it, but she wouldn’t admit it, either. Not out loud at least.
“Fine,” Jaz teased with a chuckle. “Keep it to yourself. We both know I’m right.”
“Yeah, yeah. You need any help with the barbecue?”
“Nah. Just bring what you agreed to and we’ll be good.”
