Merger

by Miles, Heather

  “Does she know who you are?”

  “I don’t think so. I got her first name this morning and her last name when I asked her out. She knows my first name, but that’s all.”

  “Okay. Now what?”

  “What do you mean, now what?” I wasn’t trying to be flagrant, but I didn’t feel like backing down either.

  “Josh.” His tone was suddenly more serious. “I don’t have to be the one to tell you how badly this could turn out. I’ll be the first to admit, she’s stunning, smart and frankly if she wasn’t who she is, I’d love nothing more than to have met her on your arm. However, she is the future CEO of Blakely. Her father has made is clear that he will eventually step aside. Hell, she may even be your boss when it’s all said and done.” He chuckled into the receiver and I laughed at the thought of her being my boss. “You need to tread lightly here, son.”

  “You of all people know that I would never do anything to hurt this merger or our company. If I’m being honest here, I’ve gotta tell you, I’m smitten. There’s something very special about her.” I was seeking his guarded approval, even though he’d just told me to pretty much stay away.

  “She’s exceptional, son, but I’d say she’s untouchable. I know you’re a gentleman, Josh, but this is a ‘thin ice’ situation. If it goes poorly, it will be uncomfortable for everyone. I trust you to use your best judgment. Obviously you need to tell her who you are—and soon, I might add. As for the date, make it business and take the opportunity to get to know her. The plan is for you and her both to eventually run this corporation together,” he explained, and then added, “You fucking her is not in the game plan.”

  “I’m crushed,” I said, jokingly. “I think that was a backhanded compliment. For a second there I heard ‘gentleman,’ then I heard ‘fucking’ and ‘don’t.’”

  “Well, at least you’re listening,” he said.

  “I’ll consider everything you’ve said,” I promised.

  “Damn right you will. Tell her, Joshua. Now, when will you be back?”

  “I was going to stay a couple more days. Now I definitely need to, to make my date with Kasey. It might be a great opportunity to bond with my new colleague.” My Dad was sly, but wouldn’t fall for my lame attempt to side step him, so I kept moving with my conversation. “If she can impress you, she’s really something. You don’t hand out compliments freely. I look forward to getting to know her.”

  “That’s great. But, you’ll have to excuse me. I have a dinner with the same beautiful woman that you’re smitten with. I suppose I shouldn’t tell her you’re my son?”

  “Enjoy your evening, but leave the introductions to me…please.” The last thing I needed was my Dad blowing me up.

  “Fine, but tell her soon.” He countered.

  “I don’t have her number. Is that something you can get for me?” I crossed my fingers and waited patiently for his reply.

  “That shouldn’t be a problem. Call me tomorrow.”

  “Sounds good,” I answered.

  We both hung up and I reached to put my phone down, when it chimed and Kasey’s number flashed on the screen. I suddenly felt like a kid in a candy store. I had no intention of backing down from Kasey. Truth be told, I was more intrigued than ever.

  A moment later, with my phone still in hand, I took a sip of wine and typed in my first text to the beautiful Kasey Blakely. All thought of my father’s warning was already long gone.

  Chapter 7

  Kasey

  I was lying on the sofa of the hotel suite when I heard my phone ring. I knew that I needed to answer it, but I was comfortable and considered just letting it roll to voicemail. But my neurosis and sense of responsibility got the better of me and I swung my legs over the plush sofa and bolted to my purse hoping that I wouldn’t miss the call after all.

  “Hello,” I answered, trying not to sound winded.

  My Dad’s voice filled the silence. “Good evening, honey.”

  “Oh, hey Dad. Sorry it took my so long to get to the phone, it was in my purse and I had to dig to find it.” It was only a slight lie. My purse was often an abyss and while I prided myself on organization, I frequently found myself digging around in search of my phone.

  “How’d everything go today?”

  “Great. I was just about to start getting ready for dinner. Mr. Crawford and his son Jake are taking me to a steak place called Mastro’s. I am not sure who else will be there, but I’m looking forward to it. Mr. Crawford is very charming. You and he favor each other.”

  “Mr. Crawford can be charming K.K., I agree, but he can also be shrewd and cutthroat. That’s why he has been such a fierce competitor all these years. I’ve always admired his tenacity, but always watched my back. It will be interesting to be partners.”

  “Well, I was impressed. It’s a good fit. As always, Daddy, you’re a genius.”

  “Don’t ever doubt it?” He laughed.

  “Not for a second.”

  As my father continued to speak, I heard the first ding of my phone. I pulled the phone from my ear and saw the tag of a text.

  I MISS U ALREADY. ENJOYING L.A.? – JOSHUA

  I couldn’t believe my eyes. How had he gotten my phone number? I fumbled to get the phone back to my ear because my father was still speaking. I hadn’t heard a word and frankly at that point, didn’t really care.

  I cut him off mid-sentence. “—Listen, Dad, the car will be here soon to get me. I really need to get ready.”

  “Sure, enjoy your evening and I’ll see you tomorrow. Love you, honey.”

  “Love you too, Dad. See you tomorrow.” I slid my finger quickly over the end button.

  I hit the text icon and pulled up Joshua’s text. I just stared at the text not knowing whether to reply or ignore it. I decided to go with the later. Maybe it was time to make him wait. I was used to getting what I wanted as well, and now that he wasn’t standing in front of me zapping my senses, I felt confident enough to walk away from my phone.

  I went into the bedroom and laid out three different outfits. The pants were a little too stuffy, so they were out, which left a skirt and blouse, or a dress. I decided on the dress. I grabbed my shoes and fingered through my jewelry pouch, selecting some subtle diamond earrings and a delicate diamond bracelet given to me by my father on my twenty-fifth birthday. I assembled everything on the bed and went to turn on the shower, but stopped at the door of the bathroom. My stomach was full of butterflies and the anticipation was killing me. I ran back into the bedroom and grabbed my phone. Who was I fooling…I was dying to reply.

  YOU CERTAINLY WASTED NO TIME GETTING MY NUMBER. I’M IMPRESSED. MISSING ME IS A BIT OF A REACH. L.A. IS ALL BUSINESS, YOU’RE NOT MISSING MUCH. – K

  His response was quick.

  I HAVE WAYS OF OBTAINING THINGS THAT I WANT. MAKE NO MISTAKE – I WANT YOU! – J

  Oh my god, was this guy for real? Hell, I was moving from butterflies to full-fledged nervousness. His forwardness never ceased to shock me. I was flattered and terrified all at the same time.

  ME…REALLY? IT TAKES MORE THAN CHARM TO GET A GIRL LIKE ME – K

  I could feel my confidence coming back. I’d always been self-assured. Always one step ahead. It was a fact…it would take more than a little flattery to impress me.

  I ASSURE YOU I’M SO MUCH MORE THAN CHARM BABY. ONE DAY SOON, VERY SOON YOU’LL BE MINE. SEE YOU SOON, MS. BLAKELY – J

  Suddenly my body became hot and I could feel my heart pick up pace.

  YOUR CONFIDENCE IS AMAZING – K

  Holy hell. I still didn’t even know his last name and he’d already pegged me for an easy kill. I’ll be his…really? He was gorgeous and cocky and just what I didn’t need right now. I didn’t know what Saturday held, but I knew I’d better get in the shower or I was going to be late for my dinner tonight.

  I showered quickly. I decided to blow my hair out to make my appearance more casual for my evening meeting with Mr. Crawford and his son Jake. I didn’t know who else
would be there, but I knew I wanted to impress whoever showed up. I put my lipstick in my mini Prada and picked up my phone when another text came through.

  WHAT HOTEL ARE YOU STAYING IN? – J

  FOUR SEASONS – K

  GREAT – J

  WHY? - K

  MAY BE IN YOUR BED WAITING FOR YOU WHEN YOU RETURN – J

  AWESOME – K

  Two could play this game.

  I knew I’d left him in New York this morning, and the chances of him being in my bed when I returned was close to impossible, but I had to admit I liked the idea of it.

  I exited the elevator and David stood at the concierge desk talking casually when he met my gaze. He smiled and I couldn’t contain my happiness. I reciprocated the gesture and quickened my pace.

  “Good evening,” I nodded.

  “Good evening to you, Miss Kasey. You look lovely, as always.”

  “Thank you, David. I’d love a glass of really great Cabernet, so let’s hit it.”

  The limo ride to Mastro’s Restaurant wasn’t long, but gave me time to think about the evening ahead. I was excited to spend more time with Mr. Crawford. He was an old soul, much like my Dad, and I looked forward to learning more about him. However, meeting his son Jake was already making me nervous. He’d been dubbed somewhat of a ‘player,’ and hot or not, I just didn’t want to feel like a dangling piece of meat.

  I entered the restaurant a little before 7:00, ready to dive into a full-bodied cabernet, when I heard the sounds of a piano coming from upstairs. I walked over to the reception desk and waited for the bubbling Barbie look-alike to give me her attention. “Kasey Blakely. I’m not sure of how many are in my party, but it’s probably under Crawford.”

  She scanned her book and marked through a name that I couldn’t see. “Wonderful. You’re the first to arrive. If you’d like, you can wait upstairs and when your party arrives we’ll come notify you.”

  I was grateful to be the first to arrive. I walked up the stairs, following the incredible sound of the piano and the soothing voice that accompanied it. The stairway walls were lined with glass and showcased the most impressive stock of wines and champagne, some of my favorites front and center. I was salivating with every step.

  My Dad loved fine wines and I learned quickly that there was a difference in the palate of a cheap or expensive wine. It was one of my more expensive habits and it wasn’t uncommon for me to partake in an expensive bottle of wine, even when I was the only one drinking it.

  The room was lively and bubbling over with beautiful people, some standing around the bar and others sitting. I noticed an open chair at the bar and made a beeline to the unoccupied stool. I sat down and placed my small purse on the bar, when a gorgeous gentleman next to me turned his stool and stared a hole into me.

  “You’re late, but beautiful,” he said.

  “Excuse me?” I replied.

  “I anticipated that you’d come early, but you didn’t come early enough. I’m Jake Crawford.” He smiled broadly with an outstretched hand.

  “Oh, I’m sorry. You caught me a little off guard.”

  I had to admit the few pictures I’d seen of the stunning Jake Crawford didn’t do him justice. He was a goddamned god, but I’d never admit it. I extended my hand and formerly introduced myself. “Kasey Blakely, pleased to meet you.”

  “Funny,” he replied. “I was told that your friends call you K.K., so what shall I call you?”

  “Let’s just start with Kasey and when I can call you my friend…you can call me K.K.”

  He winked and replied. “I’m glad to know that formality won’t take long.”

  Great. I was in the presence of another confident and cocky man. My second of the day. I turned to face the bar, seeking the bartender and my first glass of wine. The bartender moved towards me, and Jake waved him off. “I took the liberty of ordering some Opus One. I heard you’re a fan of fine wines?”

  “Wow, I’m impressed. Nice choice and the answer is, absolutely.” I was truly impressed. He was pouring on the charm and even though I wasn’t interested in the very least, I was genuinely happy with his choice of wine and made note that he was learning as much as possible about me and what I liked. He’d done his homework.

  The bartender handed Jake a beautifully stemmed glass and I watched as he poured in a supple amount of wine. I was almost drooling with anticipation. Opus One for Christ’s sake…Yummy! He handed me my glass, and looked at me as a cat would a mouse he had in his sights. I couldn’t wait put my lips to the glass of perfectly tempered wine. I tipped my glass to his and offered a silent toast. He obliged me with a million dollar smile.

  “Cheers,” he offered, looking over the top of his glass. “My father was very impressed with you. He thinks you’re a great fit for Crawford Enterprises.”

  “I’d like to think so,” I replied, pausing to take my first sip. “I think that Blakely and Crawford are a good fit.”

  “So, are you my boss?” he asked with a smirk.

  “If I am, you’re fired, smart-ass. No, I’m just kidding. I’m honestly not sure of the future dynamics. I see us as a team and I assure you, your family is critical to the success of this partnership.”

  “Partnership,” he nodded. “Sounds good to me. Are you seeing anyone, Kasey?”

  “Wow? Interesting lead in.” That didn’t take long. “Well, right now I guess I’m seeing you, as you are the only one sitting in front of me.” I shook my head and took a long pull of wine from my glass. I knew he was inquiring into more, but I wasn’t willing to play this game. Stunning or not, I wasn’t sharing my personal life with him. I knew with one look Jake Crawford was trouble.

  “So, you and I are seeing each other? I like the sound of that.” He moved closer to me, invading my space.

  “You know what I mean, Jacob.” I shifted a bit further back in my chair. “I’m here strictly on business. My personal life is really not open for discussion. Besides, I’m sure there’s a super model waiting in the wings somewhere.”

  “Hell, I can’t think of anything more beautiful than you, and please call me Jake.”

  “Thank you for the compliment. You’re quite the charmer I see.”

  “Only if it works, Ms. Blakely.” He placed his arm on the side of my chair. Suddenly the closeness of him became overwhelming. His scent was masculine and intoxicating, like fresh soap and mint. I found myself leaning closer, instead of leaning away. I was absolutely losing my mind. Was I crazy? I quickly found my brain and swiveled my chair to excuse myself.

  “If you’ll, please excuse me, I need to use the ladies room.”

  He removed his arm from my chair, but I could feel his stare warming my back as I walked away. This is not happening. I am not about to put my career, reputation, or self-respect on the line for Jake Crawford. I don’t care how charming or handsome his is.

  I lingered in the bathroom, not having to really pee, but trying to regain my composure before walking out into the waiting lion’s den. When I approached the bar, I was relieved to see Mr. Crawford standing next to his son.

  “Thank God,” I said under my breath, and exhaled deeply as I moved towards them both.

  “Wow, Kasey don’t you look lovely this evening,” Mr. Crawford said as he handed me my glass of wine.

  “Thank you,” I replied. “You don’t look so bad yourself.” And, he didn’t. He’d lost his suit and tie and was now wearing some casual dress slacks, a white tailored shirt, unbuttoned at the top, and a navy sports coat. He was very handsome and his age only made him that much more distinguished. Jake had clearly gotten his good looks from his father. The Crawford men were downright hot – young or old.

  “Kasey and I were just getting to know each other,” Jake interjected and stared at me like prey.

  “Yes, we were,” I replied, taking my eyes from Jake and moving them to the senior Crawford.

  “That’s great. You two ready to eat?”

  I looked at Jake and he looked at me and nodd
ed his head up and down, which I assumed meant yes. “Sure,” I replied.

  “Wonderful, I’ll let them know we’re ready.”

  Mr. Crawford moved his arm, waving it towards the stairs and we proceeded towards the dining room. When we got to the table he pulled my chair out and I proceeded to sit. Jake came strolling up and helped him move my chair in. I thanked them both and picked up the menu trying to fill the space of awkwardness. Jake was trying to act as my date and Mr. Crawford acting as my Dad. I appreciated the effort of both, but remained as non-committal as possible to either man’s need to take care of me.

  We had finished dessert and were on the last glasses of wine when I felt Jake’s hand brush against my thigh. I was so loose and relaxed from the wine, but I jumped and quickly moved my leg away. He looked at me with a smirk and shook his head slightly like I was crazy. I deciphered from his look that it was clearly not an advance on me, but was probably an accident. I rolled my eyes and looked over to find Mr. Crawford glaring at the two of us like foolish kids that didn’t know how to behave at the dinner table. I chuckled at the stupidity of it all and sipped the last of my wine.

  “I thought I’d take Kasey out for a nightcap and a drive around L.A.” Jake was to his father, but never took his eyes off me.

  “That sounds nice,” he replied.

  “That does sound really nice,” I chimed in, “but honestly it’s been a long day and I really should be getting back to the hotel.” I directed my sentence to Mr. Crawford, but veered back to see Jake’s face. His demeanor had clearly changed. Rejection was something I’m sure he didn’t hear often or accept easily.

  “Well then,” said Jake, “Let me drive you to the hotel at least.”

  I relented, not wanting to come across as a cold bitch and replied. “Sure.”