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Caught in the Crossfire
Signed, Sealed, and Promise

Signed, Sealed, and Promise

It’s been a week since that horrible dinner, Jade’s resignation, and awkward drive back to my place. I haven’t seen or talked to Jade since I apologized for not telling her about my past. It’s true I was being a hypocrite but a week? I’m miserable, and lonely, and all I want is to talk to Jade. Is this how she felt when I ignored her? It’s still hard to believe that Jade feels the same for me as I do for her.

I haven’t called or bothered texting, I figure she wants her space especially with quitting her job. I feel partially responsible for that as well. Maybe if I would’ve spoken up in a different way she wouldn’t have been placed in such a difficult position. I’ve been going over that horrible dinner every night thinking if there was something I could’ve done differently. Not only did she give up her job, she did so after learning that I was keeping things from her. I’m not sure if she did it for me or herself but I’m conflicted on hours I feel about it. On one hand I’m glad she’s taking things into her own hands and has control of her life. I’m glad that she won’t be reduced to being forced to marry that man or any like him. But I’m worried that I’ve ruined things between us, that she won’t want to be with me anymore.

I didn’t even give her an answer.

I sigh for the fourteenth time in the past five minutes, tapping on my notepad, trying my best to pay attention to my job. But I can’t focus, all I can think about is Jade. I wonder if she’s sent out the memo about her resignation. I considered calling the bar to ask but in case she didn’t, I don’t want to stir things up. The only person I can talk about this with is Alexia and as tempting as it is to pester her about Jade, she’s my boss. I know she knows what’s going on but aside from offering the week off, Alexia hasn’t mentioned anything about Jade.

I declined taking the week off and have been doing what I can to stay busy and keep Jade out of my mind. Some days not thinking about her seems impossible, going on social media has been out of the question and even Leya has been asking about her. I don’t know what I’ll tell her if this is the end of Jade and my relationship. I sigh and go to the vending machine to get a coffee. Cash is watching Leya with Logan, Taylor, and his new girlfriend. He’s been doing this a couple of times a week, I guess this girl or woman is good for him after all.

I’ve decided to work late tonight to keep my mind off Jade, but it’s barely working. I groan and rub my face, leaning against the wall in the break room. After all we’ve done to make this work, is it all going to end like this? With her dad successfully being a controlling ass and ruining this unconventional relationship we have. I would’ve told Jade, it’s not like we know all the stories if each other's past but Mr. Knight didn’t give me the chance. This sucks.

“Hey, Angel, you alright?” The sound of a male voice pulls me from my thoughts and I take my hands away from my face to see Alan Pena. He’s a nice enough guy intent on asking me out every week. He “scared off” some creep at the cafe my first week working here, though I’m convinced it was a set up. I saw him talking to the guy later on like they were good friends, but I’ve never mentioned it. He’s been trying to ask me out since. I told Jade about him and she made it clear that she doesn’t share by covering me with marks for the next day. I had never seen Jade so territorial and jealous but it was an amazing experience.

“Angel?”

“Hm? What? I’m sorry, I was lost in my head for a second there”.

“Are you okay? You seem a bit down again today?”

“Oh, I’m fine, thank you. How are you today?” I give him the same professional smile that I always give him but he clearly doesn’t read the mood.

“Oh you know, I can’t complain. I’m winning my cases so easily I’m starting to get worried”. He laughs like he’s said the funniest thing in the world and I give him my fake one in return. He’s obviously not worried.

“Well I should get back to my desk” hopefully he’ll catch the hint that I want to be alone.

“Cool, I’ll walk with you”.

Great. I walk to my desk with Alan following like a puppy yapping about himself. Normally, I’d welcome a distraction from my thoughts but Alan is just here because he wants to fuck me. He’s nice when he’s not self-centered and focused on the number of wins he has in court and in bed.

“It was a spectacular win, if I say so myself. Anyway, how’s little Leya doing?” I inwardly roll my eyes but muster a polite smile regardless. He only asks about Leya as brownie points. Disgusting.

“She’s great, loving school now”.

“That’s great, education is important after all. So, I was wondering… ” I tune Alan out as he begins his spiel of asking me out just as we arrive at my desk. I wonder what Jade is up to, maybe she’ll take a vacation before starting her new business.

“Angel? So, do you want to grab drinks tonight?” Alan looks at me expectantly as I tune back into his talking. He just asked me out again, that’s 3 times this week.

“Um…” drinks would be nice but not with Alan. I don’t want him getting the wrong idea.

“There’s a group of us going, even Amara”. Alexia’s secretary? She rarely goes out with us as coworkers so people assume she’s stand-offish but that’s not the case. The truth is she and I work on call for Alexia, when she’s really busy we can work at midnight if Alexia needs us. Amara said she’s usually just too tired or busy dealing with cases with Alexia.

“Well where are you guys going?”

“The usual place, the Hidden Lake” I nod in consideration. I could always make Amara help me avoid Alan but I’m sure he’d find some way to bug me. I’d rather smoke and drink at home instead of out with some people I kind of like.

“I don’t know…” it’s usually fun going out with everybody after work but I’d rather go home and mope.

“Come on, I can tell something’s been bothering you all week, this will be a good way to stay out of your head”. Alan drops the playboy smile to put on his friendly charming one instead. That’s the one that had me agreeing to be friends with him after I told him to drop the act with me.

“Besides, Kevin plans to ask out Amara finally, don’t you want to be there before the wedding in two weeks”. We both laugh because everyone in the office, even Alexia knows how much the pair like each other. Apparently they have since they started working here but neither of them have made a move. At this point everyone is playing matchmaker.

“Alright, I’ll see if I can, I still need to finish this up”. The truth is, I know Jade doesn’t like the guy and even at odds it doesn’t feel right going without letting her know. I’m sure the paparazzi, Mitchell’s, and Jade’s parents would love to see me out with someone else.

“I’ll take it” Alan’s eyes shine like he just won a case and I inwardly roll my eyes but smile outwardly. I’m just another potential conquest to this man, ugh, I’m definitely not going tonight. Alana lingers until I’m sitting at my desk before leaving, saying he hopes to see me later. I drop my polite smile when he’s out of view and sigh. It’s almost 9:00 p.m on a Friday night and I’m working and moping. It would be nice to go out but not at the expense of making things worse.

“Wow, is that twice in one day?” Alexia asks from her office, referring to Alan. He asked me out for lunch earlier today, now it’s group drinks. I nod, finishing up her schedule.

“He can be a bit persistent at times”.

“I’ve noticed, if he’s giving you trouble I can have a word with him”.

“No it’s alright, he’s not that bad. Alan is a good guy, he's just a player”.

“He seems very interested in you though, I’ve never known Alan to put in effort to get a girl in bed”.

“That’s pretty sad actually” it’s sad that women fall over a guy like that so easily. A few nice words and fancy dinners and these women are hooked on the lawyers here.

“Are you going to accept that invitation?” I stop typing to look up at Alexia, frowning in suspicion.

“I don’t know, why?” She laughs and strides over, leaning on my desk with a smile too sweet to be innocent.

“Come out with me instead”.

“What?” She laughs, standing from my desk and grabbing my jacket.

“Is it really that surprising?”

“I mean…” Alexia doesn’t usually do things without an ulterior motive. I don’t voice my thoughts to my boss, ending my sentence with a shrug.

“Come on, I don’t need that schedule you’re working on for another 3 weeks. Don’t think I haven’t noticed you moping and brooding around here. Between you and Jade I don’t know who’s worse off”. My ears perk up at Jade’s name and I can’t stop the spark of longing in my chest. I miss her so much.

“You’ve talked to Jade?” I figured they've been talking to discuss everything but Alexia hasn’t had any meetings with Jade on her schedule. At least not the ones I make, maybe Amara knows.

“Yes, but I’m not telling you more unless you come with me”. Alexia smirks, holding out my jacket and I sigh. She knows that I want to know about Jade, such a sneaky woman. I close up my work and pack my things before following Alexia to the garage. She gives me directions and I drive behind her, taking the free time to call Cash and check on Leya. When he doesn’t answer I roll my eyes and call Logan.

“Yo” Logan’s voice is muffled like he’s trailing with a mouth full of food and I scrunch up my nose.

“Ew, don’t answer the phone like that. Where’s Leya? Cash isn’t answering”.

“She’s right here sleeping on Taylor, about to get woken up because she forced us to watch this movie then fell asleep”. I laugh because I know how Logan and Leya get when they’re together. They either argue like siblings or stick together like glue like best friends.

“It’s your fault for always spoiling her”.

“Next time I’m picking my own damn movie. So what’s up? Is that all you wanted?”

“Yeah pretty much, Alexia invited me out, it seems like she wants to talk about something”.

“Oh, going for drinks with the boss, good luck, don’t get fired. I told Leya we’d go to the amusement park this weekend and you’re paying…so send the money”. I shake my head at Logan, he’s the one that got my daughter hooked on the amusement park.

“Fine, but where’s your friend? He said he wanted her for the weekend and now he’s not answering”.

“I told him and his lady that I’d watch Leya so they can go out tonight. We’re going on some double date the girls planned with Leya tomorrow. He did well today so I gave him a break, my boy looked tired”. We both laugh because when Cash does have Leya she has him wrapped around his finger. He can’t say no to her at all so she turns into a brat child with Cash, which I don’t mind.

“I told him not to give her whatever she wants, she’s going to turn into a brat”.

“We all know you and your aunt are the only ones who can say no to that precious little face” Logan puts on his baby voice before laughing.

“She just hit me in her sleep, she’s just like you”. I pull up to the bar and park next to Alexia.

“Thanks Logan, I’m here. I'll talk to you guys tomorrow and send you the money. Kiss my baby for me”.

“Yeah I got you, stay safe sis” I tell him the same, bidding them all goodnight before stepping out of the car. I ignore the cameras and chatter of people as Alexia and I step into the bar, quickly being seated. We order our drinks and I raise my brow at Alexia who sighs.

“Would you like to know why I invited you or an update on Jade first?”

“Why did you invite me?” As curious as I am about Jade I don’t know if I’m ready to hear that she’s preparing to move on. We thank the server as she brings our drinks and Alexia sighs.

“The truth is I need your advice”.

“Um okay?” Alexia takes a sip of her drink before continuing as I lean back in my chair and sip my own drink. I don’t see how I’m supposed to give advice to a high-profile lawyer like her.

“As you know Nikita and I have been seeing each other, casually over the past few months. That being said I’ve been watching you and Jade, and a number of my other friends, and I believe it’s time for something more serious. When I mentioned this to Nikki she laughed it off. Given my reputation I understand her disbelief but how do I prove that I want more?” Alexia sighs and downs her drink and I can’t help but smile. I’ve never seen Alexia not have an answer or solution to every situation she faces, but right now she looks completely lost. It reminds me of Jade when we first started talking about becoming serious. Have neither of these women ever asked someone out before?

“The first thing is to do something differently than usual. Something more personal rather than expensive or elaborate. Is there a favorite place she likes or any hobbies? After that it’s just being honest and telling her how you feel. Make it clear that you want her as more than a submissive and what she means to you. She knows the flirty sexual side of you so show her something different”. Alexia nods in consideration, running ideas by me as I finish my first and second drink. I give her my advice and she eventually comes up with a plan to ask out Nikita. It’s adorable watching her plan and consider everything for Nikki. I knew that they would hook up at times but I didn’t know they were this serious.

“Thank you for your help, Angel. I had been scouring the Internet for ideas but this sounds a lot better than everything I read. I think Nikki will enjoy it”.

“Of course, happy to help”. I wave her off as I take a sip of my third drink. In all honesty, it’s just been nice to have a distraction from Jade and the alcohol definitely helps.

“Now that that’s all cleared up, I promised an update on Jade didn’t I?” I look down at the liquid in my glass feeling a myriad of emotions collide into my chest.

“That’s alright, I’m not sure I want to know”. I do but I’m too scared to hear that Jade is moving on. Of course I could be overthinking and exaggerating but the idea is enough to shatter my heart. I can finally admit to myself that I love Jade and the thought of her being with someone else has me suffering.

“Are you sure?” Alexia smirks, seeing right through my facade. Of course I want an update on Jade. Alexia doesn’t say anything, drinking and waiting until my inner debate is over with. That same satisfied smirk on her face like she knows my answer already.

“How is she?” I finally cave and ask after finishing my third drink.

“Back to her old cold bitchy self”.

“What, really? I know she’s stressed but is it really that bad?” I feel a pang of guilt and a stab of worry hit my heart at Alexia's words. I should be there for her, instead, I’ve been having a pity party.

“I wouldn’t say it’s bad, Jade is just stand-offish right now. If it’s not business then she’s not talking to anyone. Imani said she goes to work early and stays late and does nothing else. Jade told me about the dinner and ultimatum, sounds like it’s been quite a battle”.

If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

“It’s like a war with those people but Jade is worth the fight”. I love Jade enough to deal with dinners like that every week, as long as it means being together.

“Whatever strategy you two had apparently worked. Jade and her father have been having negotiations all week about her keeping her position or leaving. Somehow word got out about her resignation, we suspect the Mitchell’s along with Mrs. Knight leaked the news. The clients and employees were all ready to jump ship so Mr. Knight had no choice but to reopen the discussion with Jade”. I nod in understanding , I’m just glad that Jade has an opportunity to keep the job she loves.

“Thank you for explaining. I’ve been giving Jade her space so I wasn’t up to speed about everything going on since that dinner”.

“Oh, is that what you call avoiding her?” Alexia smirks at my red face and I shake my head.

“I’m not avoiding her, I just don’t want to make her life more difficult. I can’t help but think she wouldn’t have to go through all this if she would’ve chosen someone else”. I can’t help but pout as I think of all the things we’ve been through just to get here. Do I really want to let someone else ruin this? I used to wish and dream of being with Jade and when it became a possibility I couldn’t believe it. I don’t want to lose her. She's worked and fought for me against her family so much it’s my time to fight for her.

“I believe the outcome would’ve been the same either way. Donovan is the highest bidder, unless someone came along offering more money then things were bound to wind up here. Although, I’m sure her parents weren’t expecting Jade to be this adamant about someone. Nobody ever expected Jade Knight to walk away from her seat and title but she was prepared to do that, for you”. I groan and drop my head down onto the table.

“And now I’m here being a brat and feeling bad for myself, ugh I’m horrible”. Alexia’s loud laugh has me sitting up, my pout still intact.

“You’re far from horrible, Angel. In fact, I think you and Jade are thinking much of the same thing. That being said, there's another reason I suggested this bar”.

“I assume it's because it’s down the street from Jade’s job?”

“Smart as ever, she’s still in meetings but she sent a message”. Alexia points to the crowd and I see Imani here usual composed face wrought with irritation. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Imani look so bothered. She sits at our table with a sigh, setting down a folder and offering us a smile.

“I apologize for my tardiness, things have been a bit… intense. I believe Ms. Martin has gotten you up to speed, Ms. Raya?” When I nod Imani continues as if we’re having a meeting in the office instead of at the bar.

“Jade sends her apologies over her absence this past week. She’s been incredibly busy and since negotiations have gotten tense she wants to make sure everything is in order. Her parents are still pushing for their demands, even if it’s in name only, naturally Jade refuses, and things have come to a stalemate. So, in an effort to halt all discussion of that demand, Jade would like you to sign this. She promises to explain and make everything up later”. Imani has her natural comforting smile, sliding the paper towards me and Alexia looks surprisingly neutral. Her lack of expression threatens to make me nervous but knowing Jade I have a good idea about what’s in this folder.

I guess I’ve been overthinking this entire time.

I open the folder and as I expect a marriage license and another contact rest in the file, waiting to be signed.

“Mrs. Knight understands and apologies for the unconventionality, however, she would like these to be filed as soon as possible”. Imani sighs and I’m sure she advised her boss against asking me to marry her like this.

“Wow, it seems she’s adamant about this”.

“For the record, I told Jade that she’s being hasty and this is no way to ask for a woman’s hand properly. I wouldn’t blame you if you slapped her with this folder”.

“I know Mrs. Knight had no intention to insult you, Ms. Raya. Mrs. Knight promised to explain more in detail later but she says "if you're still willing to see this through to the end, to please sign”. Imani finishes explaining and I look at the papers closely.

“I assume you two are the “witnesses” and you’re going to expedite the filing right?” I look between Alexia and Imani who nod. This means I’ll have to move in with Jade. I don’t mind that at all, it’s not like I’ll give up my house and if I need space then that’s what I’ll go back there. Jade already signed everything, she’s made up her mind.

“She’s a woman that goes after what she wants, that’s for sure”. I smile and shake my head, I can’t believe I’m doing this. If I was second guessing my love before I think this makes it pretty clear. I love Jade and I can no longer fight or deny that fact. I sign the papers, careful to keep them out of sight before handing them to Alexia.

“Can you do me a favor and not tell Jade, I want to tell her myself. I assume she’s still in the office, Imani?”

“Yes, ma’am, she insists on working all night. When the news came out it caused a bit of an uproar and she’s been drowned in work ever since. Honestly, she practically lives in that office right now”. I frown, taking out some cash and putting it on the table. I had a feeling Jade has become a workaholic but if she’s not taking care of herself, then I will. I’m officially her wife, legally at least.

“Fine, by me, my work here is done, these will be filed by the morning, consider it signed, sealed and delivered. Now, while the night is young, I’m going to see my little nymph”. Alexia waves her hand as she finishes her drink in one gulp, not even wincing at the strong liquor. Night is young? It’s past 11 o’clock at night.

“Did you drive here Imani?”

“Oh, no I took a cab, the office is right down the street after all”.

“Do you think you could help me with something?”

“Oh, um, I can try”.

“Thanks, come with me. Thank you again, Ms. Martin”.

“You gave me advice and make a plan, stop being so formal with me, Mrs. Knight” I feel my face heat and shake my head. It’s going to take a while to get used to that.

“I’m leaving now, I’ll see you on Monday”. Imani and I leave the bar and I frown, looking at the time. It’s late, but hopefully if they know who it’s for, they’ll make an exception.

“So, what is it I can help you with? I can’t stay away from the office for too long”.

“It shouldn’t take too long, hopefully, there’s just two things I want to get. I know Jade has a private jeweler and now that we’re “married”, we’ll need rings. I’m sure Jade had a plan for it later but if I get them now it’s one less thing for her to worry about. I was hoping you can get in contact with her jeweler right now. I know it’s late though”.

“No, you’re right, besides I’m not sure when Jade will have the opportunity to shop. I’ll take care of it, what’s the other thing?” Imani is already on her phone as I drive us to Jade’s favorite restaurant.

“I know Jade has been working her ass off and I doubt she’s been taking care of herself. Or allowing anyone else too either, so I’m getting her a very late dinner”. I call the restaurant and after a few minutes of arguing, I tell them it’s for Jade Knight. Naturally, they hastily agree and tell me it’ll be ready in ten minutes.

“Is there anything Jade can’t get?” I ask after the jeweler confirms with Imani. She laughs and shakes her head.

“Honestly, I don’t think so. As long as I’ve known Jade she’s always managed to get what she wants”.

“You’ve worked for her a long time. She said you’re the best assistant she’s ever had”. Imani’s face heats up at the praise and she shakes her head. She’s adorable.

“Mrs. Knight provided me with an opportunity when nobody else did. She helped me out of some really tough spots, I’m grateful to Jade. Besides the pay is amazing and she’s a good boss despite what the media likes to say Jade is a good person with a big heart”. She didn’t hesitate to drop that title of Mrs down like it was nothing.

“I’m glad that she has someone like you looking out for her, keep an eye on her for me will you? She’s strong of course, but I worry about her''. The mentally and emotional abuse she has to suffer from her parents, I don’t want to imagine how things were before her success. I’m scared she’ll reach a breaking point or work herself to death.

“Of course, Mrs. Knight”. I laugh and wave her off as we get to the restaurant.

“Please, I’ll just stick with Angel and around me you can call her Jade. Mrs. Knight reminds me of Jade’s mother too much” I don’t bother hiding my eye roll, making Imani laugh.

“It takes a while to get used to the demeanor of the Knight family. Being the oldest Jade had a lot of pressure on her shoulders. Her mother demanded success in life as a woman and wife and her father demanded success in business. It was easy for Jade to achieve both but she always did so in her way. I’m glad she has someone who loves her standing by her side”.

“I guess I make my feelings pretty obvious huh?”

“Only to those who recognize the look of love. You stare at Jade the way I stare at my boyfriend and Jade looks at you just the same. Though I’m not sure Mrs. Knight, sorry Jade, has noticed the shift in your feelings yet”.

“Yeah she can be a bit blind when it comes to things like feelings but I don’t mind that”.

“Really?” I shake my head, a smile playing at my lips as I think of the actions Jade takes to communicate her feelings.

“She tells me in her actions, things that most people might find trivial I hold close. Like you Jade came into my life and changed it for the better, though I can’t say that’s what won me over”.

“What did? If you don’t mind me asking”.

“I don’t mind, it was seeing the way she is with my daughter. I saw that it wasn’t just for show and she wasn’t trying to buy her love or attention. Jade genuinely loves my daughter and treats her like her own. It made me see a different side of Jade beyond what I had heard. I couldn’t help but race towards loving her after that”. Saying that out loud feels more natural than I expected and it’s nice to tell someone. I know I should tell Jade and I will one day, but right now she has a lot going on. I’ll wait until the time is right. We pick up the food before heading toward the jeweler, who thankfully agreed to meet us closer to Jade’s office. I don’t want her food getting cold.

‣‣‣‣‣‣‣‣‣‣

“So, do you think she’ll like it?”

“It’s from you so of course but even if it wasn’t the ring was astonishing. It left me speechless and I’m sure Jade will feel the same way”.

“She is Jade Knight, she can’t have a ring that looks like it came from an arcade game” it’s also the first big gift I’ve been able to get Jade with my own money. It took a bit of looking at Jermaine’s special collection and some haggling, but I finally settled on the perfect ring. It’s a round ideal cut diamond 10.10 carats with a Bella Vaughan for Blue Nike Grandeur Trapezoid diamond engagement ring in platinum for the setting. It looks like a crown surrounded by smaller diamonds, perfectly befitting for Jade Knight.

“Do you think she’ll be upset if she finds out you spent over 1 million dollars on her ring?”

“That’s why we won’t tell her” I wink as we step off the elevator into the quiet office. She laughs, shaking her head, leading me towards Jade’s office. Although it’s almost 11:30 there are a few other offices with their lights on. It seems like the schemes of Jade’s parents are starting to pour into the company.

“If she asks you know I can’t lie” I wave my hand and shrug.

“I’m not scared of Jade” her punishment are some of my favorite times anyway.

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone say that so sincerely”. I laugh as we stop at Imani’s desk outside Jade’s office.

“You should get some rest Imani, I’ll help Jade for the rest of the night”.

“I can’t just…”

“You can and you will, I’ll let Jade know don’t worry. Besides, if you’re too tired, who's going to be my eyes when I’m not around”. I nod my head toward the door and give her a smile.

“Get out of here” after a few more minutes of hesitation she finally nods. She gathers her things before leaving with a final thank you. I decide not to second guess anything and just go with the flow, stepping into Jade’s office not bothering to knock. She doesn’t look up from her computer and I bite my lip as I take a moment to admire her, quietly locking the door behind me.

Her beautiful chocolate skin is as radiant as ever, even with the bags and evident exhaustion in her gorgeous green eyes. She’s still in her work clothes and as sexy as they look I doubt they’re very comfortable. I can tell that she’s tense and stressed and I feel guilty for adding onto that. She looks so tired and her frown is back and prominent on her face. She looks stone cold like when we first met. Intimidating but she doesn’t make me nervous like she used to, now I’m just worried.

“Imani, where have you been? I told you and Alexia to keep me updated. This is no time to be…Angel?” I smile as she finally looks up from her computer, her surprised eyes finding me.

“I sent Imani home and I’m glad I did, you better not talk to her like that”. Her eyes widen and I have to hold in my laugh. I don’t know what’s going on with me but I suddenly feel so happy, after having such a horrible week. I’m back in the clouds and it feels amazing.

“N-no, I don’t. I just…there’s no excuse, I’m sorry”. Did Jade just stutter and apologize? In the same sentence? I feel my heart roar in my chest as I look at the woman I’m in love with. How did I manage to land her, I don’t know but I’m not asking. I smile and put the food down on her coffee table before going to her closet.

“I knew you would insist on staying here to work so I brought you dinner. Your favorite restaurant had it prepared just for you”. I find the hoodie, socks, and furry slides stashed in her closet and turn to her my smile still intact. I doubt it’s going to go away right now.

“If you’re going to work all night you’re at least going to be comfortable and take a break. Here, change and I’ll get your food ready”. I hand her the clothes before going to the table and taking out the food.

“I have to admit, I wasn’t expecting you to come here after I sent Imani with the papers. I thought you would be too upset and want nothing to do with me after that disastrous dinner”.

“Well when I realized we were feeling the same it made the decision to come see you easy. Besides….” the words die on my tongue as I look up to see Jade’s pants pool at her feet. My throat runs dry and my mind goes blank as my eyes slowly trail up her long smooth legs. Her succulent and toned thighs beg me to spread them and reveal more of her black mesh barely covered pussy. I lick my lips but force my eyes away, this is not the time for that. Her sultry chuckle fills my ears and when I look at her again, she’s wearing the black oversized hoodie that stops at her mid thigh. No pants, and she has her ankle socks and slides on, she looks adorable.

“I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of how you look at me”. She sits next to me and a wide smile breaks out on her face as she sees her food. I give myself a mental high five for the choice as she grabs her for, ticks her feet under her, and begins eating.

“Mm, I’ve been craving this but haven’t had time to enjoy it properly. Thank you, Angel”.

“Of course” I take off my jacket, making sure to keep the ring box close but hidden in the pocket.

“Would you like me to put your jacket in the closet?”

“No, you just eat, I'll put it away in a minute”. She’s being so sweet. Is it wrong that I’m glad I’m the only one that gets to see this side of her. Her earlier scowl is gone but I can tell she’s still tense and stressed.

“Have you eaten?”

“Yeah, I had dinner at the office before going out with Alexia for drinks. Her and Imani got me caught up on everything. It sounds like it’s been pretty hectic around here”. Jade sighs, shaking her head, it’s clear she’s fatigued and lacking sleep. How can I convince her to leave this place for the night?

“It’s been a damn shit show around here, for once my father and I agree that my mothers antics have gone too far. My parents and I have always somewhat been at war, so to speak, when it comes to controlling my life. However, we’ve always managed to keep our family drama away from the business”. Jade smirks, taking a drink and giving me the side eye. This look used to make me feel nervous but right now I’m too happy to feel nervous.

“Why are you looking at me like that?”

“You were right. The news came out two days after the dinner and the news spread like wildfire. Over half of our investors wanted to pull, the board members had a meeting and voted 4-2 in favor of me remaining. Our clients have been calling in panic worried about what this means for their contracts, not to mention these meetings with my father. We haven’t come to an agreement and I told him I will leave if he nullifies our original agreement. He agreed to talk and we’ve been negotiating terms”.

“That’s good then, I know how much this job means to you. I’m sorry if I caused you more trouble than you expected”.

“Don’t apologize, you’ve shown me another way to live, Angel. I can’t remember when I’ve experienced so much happiness by doing the simplest things. I’m not one for flowery speeches and affectionate words, but I don’t regret anything with you Angel. I choose you over anyone”. Jade clears her throat, placing down her food and turning to me.

“We don’t just work well together, Angel. You’ve become someone I long for in my life, you’ve been plaguing my mind all week. It’s made it hard to focus and it’s quite annoying. I find myself clinging to our memories in your absence, but I’m grateful for them. I don’t expect us to always agree and I’m sure we’ll fight but no more disappearing from each other”. I nod, gasping as she grabs my shirt and pulls me onto her lap.

“Jade, you need to finish eating”.

“Angel, I haven’t spoken, touched, or tasted you in a week. If you think I’m going to wait any longer to kiss you then you’re sorely mistaken”. Her lips are on mine in an instant, kissing me hot and urgent, like I’m the water that quenches her thirst. I openly and happily submit to her assault, licking her bottom lip as a silent plea for more. She obliges me, parting my lips with her tongue so our muscles can dance and twist together. I moan at the move of her lips, the taste of her and food flooding my mouth, her grip on my ass igniting my lust. I tangle my hands in her soft wavy hair, bringing my body closer, unable to get enough. I’ve missed her so much.

“Mm” I moan and cup her head as Jade kisses down neck to my collarbone. She has a tight grip on my ass as she roughly pulls me forward so our chest collides.

“Don’t leave again, Kitten”. Her demand sounds more like a request and I tighten my hold on the woman. How could I ever stay away? She’s so amazing and I wasted so much time. She needed me and I wasn’t here, but it’ll never happen again.

“I won’t. I promise I’ll never leave again, Jade”. She smiles full of satisfaction, she’s happy with my answer and I swell with pride, happy to please her. I’ve got it bad for her.

Jade swiftly removes my shirt using it to tie my hands before gently pushing me down on the couch. I feel my head hit the ring box but I push it aside for later, we can focus on the details later. When Jade is staring at me like this I don’t care about much else. She sets my body on fire, sends my heart racing, and makes me feel like a clichéd mess. But I love it.

“Now, you wanted me to finish eating, correct?” Her smirk is so devious I can’t help but shudder in anticipation as my core begins to soak my underwear.

“Please” I practically whimper, moving my hips to ease this friction between my legs.

“Be still” her demand is sharp and has me freezing instantly. I stare into her eyes, full of control and dominance and have to fight off my smile. I love this side of Jade.

“Tell me what you want” she uses her fingertip to trail her nail across my body down to my nipple, circling them both for good measure. I moan and arch my back, trying to collect my thoughts and force my mouth to form words. Fuck, she’s barely touching me and I’m ready to explode already.

“Please Jade, eat me, fuck me, claim me as yours, so everyone knows who I belong to”. A low growl sounds in her throat as she tears off the rest of my underwear, effectively ripping the material and leaving me bare.

“Safe word?”

“Cherry”. Jade kneels down between my legs, on the couch, grabbing the back of my knees and tugging me towards her awaiting mouth.

“Good girl”.