I didn’t expect it. “Raquel is moving into his position. She’s here to meet the clients and get a feel for our new market.”
Anger flares in Jerry’s eyes, and he takes a step back. “You’re moving her into Taron’s spot? That should be my promotion.”
My jaw tightens, and I turn to face him, matching his tone. “What gave you that idea? Taron hired Rock… Raquel to take over his accounts.”
“His international accounts. I helped him develop all our domestic partners. She’s too young.”
“You’re in LA now.” My tone is final, but he’s turning my decision into a snub.
“Temporarily. You said I’d be able to come back—”
“You’re here to grow the West Coast branch. It’s as important as what Taron did in Nashville.”
“But it was in Nashville.” Angel and Rocky stroll back to where we’re speaking in low, heated tones. “She’s too young and inexperienced.”
“She’s young, but she’s proven her ability.”
The ladies are back with us, and Rocky smiles, meeting my eyes. Our chemistry is strong, and I wait too long before blinking away.
“I see.” Jerry’s tone is cynical. “It’s like that.”
“Like what?” Angel blinks between the two of us, but Jerry’s eyes are fixed on me.
He’s grinning like he just figured out some new angle, and I don’t like it.
“Let’s get some drinks, Ang.” He starts to go, but pauses after a few steps. “Oh, I was able to set up meetings with Keller Martin and Shelldrake tomorrow. We can talk more about what we’re going to do then.”
As far as I’m concerned, the conversation is closed, but I’m not in the mood to deal with him right now. “We’ll see you then.”
“Yes, you will. We can also discuss my new terms for staying tomorrow. Now that things are changing so much.”
My eyes narrow, and I try to figure out what he’s planning. Rocky is at my side, so I’ll let it go for now, but this asshole better not think he’s going to push me around. “Tomorrow, ten.”
25
Raquel
“So far this is shaping up to be my favorite business trip.” We’ve slipped out to the narrow walkway along the outside of the observatory, overlooking the city. We’ve somehow managed to be alone, and it’s magical… like a fairytale.
I’m here in this beautiful dress at this elegant ball. A glass of wine is in my hand, and the music from inside is loud enough to be heard. Patton holds my hand as we stroll.
“You seemed to hit it off well with Angel.” He glances over at me.
“She’s nice.” We take a few more steps, and I look up at the sky.
The yellow, orange, and red has transformed to pink, blue, and deep purple, and I exhale deeply, pausing beside the wall. Patton’s warm hand slides across my bare back, and it feels good. I lean my head against his shoulder.
“Too bad we’re heading home tomorrow.” I think I’ve fallen in love with this city.
He exhales a laugh. “I thought you were worried about leaving the Nashville office shorthanded.”
“I didn’t know what I was missing.”
We’re quiet, watching the twinkling stars, the lights of LA spread like a glittering blanket below. I get to thinking. “What was going on with Jerry back there?”
The two of them seemed to be having a heated conversation when Angel and I returned from our stroll, and they’ve been scarce ever since.
“Nothing. Shop talk.”