I didn’t look away. He knew I would have more questions, most of them pertaining to responsibilities as well as incentives. I was one of those men who spent my time wisely. If the reward wasn’t worth the effort, I didn’t put forth the energy.
“We can discuss the partnership agreement at length,” Justin continued, “but I felt it necessary to get this out now.”
“Why the rush?” I asked.
For the first time since I walked in the room, Justin smiled. “Because we’re getting married.”
My gaze shot to Ben, who nodded.
“So, she said yes?” Landon asked, referring to their submissive, Addison.
“She did.”
“Congratulations.” Some of the tension eased out as genuine happiness took over. “It’s about damn time.”
“Thanks,” Ben and Justin said in unison.
The tension was back. “But what does that have to do with the company?”
“Well, for one, when we start a family, we’re hoping to be in a position to rely on others to maintain most of the day-to-day.”
And by that, I figured Justin meant they’d shift down to a regular workweek and delegate—something none of them did well—to those they put in place to handle the important aspects of running a global corporation.
“Getting married and starting a family,” I mused. “You’ve come a long way, Parker.”
“That he has,” Langston agreed with a chuckle. “Congrats again, by the way.”
Justin smiled, glanced at Ben. “Thanks.”
“What about you two?” I asked, shifting the focus to Landon and Langston. “When’s the baby due?”
“Trust me,” Landon said with a shit-eating grin, “we’re workin’ on it.”
I was fairly certain they’d been doing exactly that in Landon’s office earlier in the day.
“So?” Justin prompted. “What do you say?”
I turned back to him. “I say we should have a conversation.”
“If the money’s right?” Landon asked.
“It’s not about money,” I told him, glancing from one face to the next. “It’s never been about money for me.”
The simple fact was, money wasn’t an issue. I had more than I could spend in this lifetime. That was one of the benefits of coming from old money. However, I didn’t broadcast that fact, so most people weren’t aware that my investments made me more than most corporate executives pocketed in a year. Except, every man in this room knew me. They probably even knew my net worth, which begged the question…
“Why me?” I glanced between them. “Why now? Why partner? I can easily head up a division in my current role.”
No one answered, but I could see their brains working overtime. They hadn’t expected me to counter.
“Well, I think he needs to think about it some,” Zeke stated as he pushed to his feet. “In the meantime, I’ve got shit to do.”
I couldn’t tell if Zeke was merely being Zeke or if he was pissed at me. We hadn’t talked since the day he gave me permission to date his sister.
“And if we’re lucky,” Zeke noted as he was walking out of the room, “he’ll sign on. Otherwise, you guys are doomed to hell.”
With a bellowing laugh, he left without looking back.
Landon and Langston got to their feet. “I second that,” Landon said. “But honestly, Edge, we’d be honored if you’d come on board. I know the company would benefit greatly having you at the helm.”
I was still trying to understand why making me partner would benefit anyone. They’d get the same amount of work out of me either way.
“Can I have some time to think about it?” I asked, looking between the four men.
“Of course,” Ben said.
I stood, then shook hands with all four of them. I wanted them to know I was appreciative, even if I wasn’t sure what to do with the information.
“You heading out?” Justin asked when everyone slipped out.
“I am.” I didn’t have anything planned, but if all went well, that would change with one quick text to Jamie.
“When you’re ready to discuss details, let me know. I’ve got it all outlined, Edge.”
I nodded to Justin. “Give me a few days. I’ve got a lot going on at the club right now. Maybe late next week?”
“Sounds like a plan.”
With that, I left Justin in his office and pulled out my phone. I shot Jamie a quick text, asking if she wanted to go out again. Turned out, I really enjoyed her company. Being around her settled me, brought me peace when I spent most of my day immersed in chaos.
Jamie: I’m definitely free tonight. What did you have in mind?
Me: It’s a surprise.
Jamie: You said that last time.
Me: You have something against surprises?
Jamie: Not at all.
Me: Good. I’ll pick you up at seven.
Jamie: Should I wear anything particular?
I wanted to tell her to wear nothing at all, but I didn’t.
Me: Casual is good.
Jamie: See you at seven.
Yes, she would.
Jamie
THIS WHOLE DATING THING WAS DIFFICULT.
Not the actual date part. That was easy. And fun.
However, the getting ready part … it made me anxious. But here I was, going casual once again to spend my evening with Edge. Part of me had hoped Cav would be tagging along since we’d already done the single date, but I figured the two of them knew what they were doing.
