Page 116 of Angel

“I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you don’t mind, but I was curious and Jason told me.”

His face is like stone. No emotion at all, and he points to the nearby couch.

“Cancer doesn’t discriminate. It’s a terrible disease.”

“I agree.”

I perch on the edge of the couch and Jason grasps my hand and drags me back against his side, one arm running along my shoulders as he says edgily, “I could use a drink and I’m sure Sophie wouldn’t say no.”

“Of course. Where are my manners?”

He points to the trolley. “Whiskey, brandy or champagne. I can arrange anything else if you prefer.”

“Whiskey would be good, thank you.”

It’s awkward as fuck. There is no warmth between the two men. It’s as if they are strangers and Jason would rather be anywhere else. This place is cold. Not physically, but mentally.

A shiver runs down my spine as his father hands me the glass and one for Jason.

He fixes one for himself and then sits facing us.

“I have arranged for Marcel Poitier to be our chef tonight. He has set up in the dining room.”

“I’m impressed.”

I really am because Marcel is the hottest chef in town and has several restaurants around the world. To my knowledge, he cooks for nobody, merely runs his empire as a businessman more than hands on.

“He owed me a favor.”

I smile and as I sip my drink, it occurs to me that I don’t even know his name.

“I’m sorry, sir, but I didn’t catch your name.”

It’s as if I asked for the secret of life because I don’t miss the glance they share and then Jason nods.

His father replies.

“It’s John.”

“Thank you.” I smile. “Jason hasn’t really told me much about you other than your work. It must be so rewarding.”

“It is.”

He offers a rare smile, and I’m relieved about that.

“I have a huge lab in the basement. It runs the entire width and length of the house. I prefer to conduct my research from home.”

“You work from here?”

I’m shocked at that, and he smiles. “It saves a lot of valuable time in commuting. I am very fortunate that Jason has the talent for coding. His expertise has streamlined my business and negated the need for staff.”

“Jason can do that?”

I turn to him, seriously impressed, only now realizing the intelligence in this room. No wonder they are freaking billionaires.

It’s not often I feel inferior these days, but I do now.

“I would love to see it.”