by Roxy Wilson
Her words triggered an idea in his mind. Fitz refined it as he strolled to the bar to get another drink. When he returned, they were talking about another couple who were married and were soon to be parents. Janay took credit for their happy ending also. If only his silly woman could see how her happiness wasn’t that far from her grasp.
If she ever got away from this crazy obsession of hers.
Then it hit him. He shaped the very idea rolling around in his head into a perfect plan to lure her exactly where he wanted her to be. “What about me?”
Janay turned to face him. “What?
He shrugged, enjoying her attention. “I’m single. You could set me up with someone.”
She narrowed her eyes. “But you always said that you were perfectly capable of finding the right girl on your own.”
“It’s obvious that I haven’t succeeded. Maybe I could benefit from your expert help. What do you think?”
She snorted. “You’re pulling my leg.”
“No, I’m not,” he insisted, enjoying the befuddled expression on her face. Was she already feeling unease at the idea of hooking him up with someone? Perhaps she couldn’t bear the thought of seeing him with another girl? “Are you up for the challenge?”
“Okay.” She took a sip from her bottle as she eyed him. “Let’s do this. You’ll be my next project.”
“I can hardly wait,” he quipped in a dry voice.
Sandra raised an eyebrow at him.
Janay seemed to miss the irony in his tone.
“So, how shall we go about it?”
She eyed him with care. “Generally, I get this feeling, you know. I see a person and I can sense what they need. Strange, that I’m not getting it for you. It might help if you could tell me what kind of qualities you would like your woman to have?”
“Shouldn’t you know that? I mean, you know me better than anyone else.”
“That’s true,” she admitted. “Let me see…your woman should be easygoing, sensitive but not overly so. You would hate a crying, attention-seeking woman. Temper tantrums are acceptable, but tears are a big no-no. An independent woman would attract you. She should be passionate about her work, life and friends. And of course, family should be important for her. Loyalty. Honesty. Commitment to family and friends. All these are good traits to have. And a sense of humor is a big plus.”
“Is that all that he would like?” Sandra interjected sardonically. “And I thought it was only the women who were picky. How the hell are you going to find such a paragon of virtue?”
“She doesn’t have to be perfect.” Janay pointed to Fitz. “He certainly isn’t.” She appeared to be concentrating hard. “I can see him with a person who’s talkative, fun and yet, practical. They should be friends first, lovers later. And the woman should also be able to sit with him through soccer games and enjoy going to bars and clubs on weekends.”
Can’t you see it? That perfect woman for me is you!
Of course, he couldn’t say it out loud. Subtlety would be crucial. If she stumbled on this idea that they belonged together on her own, she would move heaven and earth to make sure they ended up together. He knew her…a downright determined girl.
“That’s a long list. I can hardly see anyone fitting with all of these standards,” Fitz added in an attempt to see if it sparked off something in her mind.
She remained oblivious to his hints. “Your woman should also be well-read and knowledgeable. Otherwise, you’ll get bored. And she shouldn’t be clingy. Right?”
How could she be so dense? “You’ve hit the nail on the head.”
Janay pumped her hand in the air. Excitement shone in her eyes. “I knew it. Now, all I’ve to do is find her.”
Sandra, who sat listening to the whole conversation intently, snorted. “The perfect person for you would be—”
Fitz’s glare cut off her words.
She spluttered, as if a light bulb suddenly lit inside her mind. Her mouth opened and closed. She glanced from him to Janay and then smiled. “I’m sure Janay will be able to find someone who can fit into your life.”
“Oh! I’ve no doubt that she’ll do her best. If anyone can do this, she can.” He winked at Sandra, knowing she’d caught on to the idea. Will she give the game away?
Then her eyes narrowed in speculation while she gazed at Janay, who still seemed to be deep in thought as if she were mentally reviewing all the women she knew. “Best of luck, Janay,” she said as she stood. “Listen, you guys, I better go. I’ve got a family thing tomorrow.”
Janay waved her hand in an absent-minded gesture. “See you.”
“Hey, Sandra. Is your brother still working in that construction company?” Fitz glanced at Janay. “Excuse us a minute. I just need to know something.” He walked Sandra out. “Thanks for not spilling the beans.”
She made no attempt to pretend she didn’t know what he was talking about. “I had no idea you had a thing for her.”
“For a long, long time,” he admitted.
“I hope, for your sake, that it works out. But wouldn’t it be easier to just tell her?”
“She would shoot me down like a pile of tins at the fair. We’ve been friends for too long.”
Sandra sighed. She hailed a cab. “That’s true. You’re in her comfort zone.”
“And that’s why she would hate to plunge into something that could ruin our friendship.” He scratched his cheek thoughtfully as he opened the cab door for her and assisted her inside. “Nothing with that woman is ever easy.”
“Good luck. You two would be great together.”
“Yeah, if only Janay could see that.” He smiled. “Thanks, Sandra. See you.”
She blew him a kiss goodbye.
When he sauntered back inside, Janay was talking to their other friends. “What did you want to talk her about?”
“Just needed some information on the construction industry,” he lied smoothly. “Her brother would be a valuable source. So, have you thought of someone for me yet?”
Janay chuckled. “You’ve got to be patient, dude. What’s the hurry? It’s not magic, you know. A lot of hard work goes into it.” She punched him lightly on the arm. “The rewards will be worth the effort I put into it. Trust me.”
“I can’t wait to start my life with someone, you know? It’s a bitch being single.” He gazed into her deep, dark eyes. Desire curled in the pit of his stomach. Why couldn’t she see that he was crazy about her? Why couldn’t she read the passion in his eyes and sense the deep longing in his heart? No one knew him better than she did. Yet…she was the one who failed to read his intentions.
It might just be a foolish plan. In fact, it did sound kind of crazy. But perhaps, everything would fall into place. He could surely hope so. If this failed, he didn’t have a backup idea. It had to work, he convinced himself as he edged his way closer to her. If it didn’t, he would just have to ask her out anyway. What could be the worst that would happen? She might say no. But at least, he would have given it his best shot.
Although, he hoped with all this effort, it would bring the results he sought.
CHAPTER THREE
Janay picked up the files from her desk and dropped them into the drawer, but taking care to place one back in its exact position. Lexi, her sister, was a stickler for details. If she misplaced a single paper or file, she would get THE LECTURE. And yeah, she would rather avoid it.
As she closed the drawer, Lexi and Brielle sauntered in. “I’m not sure about white roses. I was thinking more about carnations,” Brielle was speaking, “Maybe we need to rework the center pieces.”
“We’re not reworking anything,” Lexi stated in a firm voice, then rolled her eyes. Holding Brielle’s hand, she took a deep breath and exhaled. “Listen, I’ve planned this for more than a hundred brides. Trust me. Everything is under control. Your wedding will be amazing. All you need to do is to think about your dress and dream about your honeymoon. Janay and I will manage all the other details.”
&nb
sp; Brielle chewed at her bottom lip. “You’re right. I’m sorry. There’s no need to get worked up over small things. But I need to plan the menu for the wedding.”
“You’ve trained John and he’s going out of his way to plan a menu and serve food that will live up to the excellent reputation that you’ve earned with hard work. If you interfere, it will be an insult to his dedication and love.”
Good job! Janay wordlessly applauded Lexi. Appealing to Brielle’s kind and sensitive side was always the best way to get things done.
“Yes, you’re right.” Brielle took a chair. “I’m sorry. It’s silly to be worrying over it all. And I’m giving you a hard time…while you’re pregnant.”
Lexi’s smile lit the room. She took a seat and patted her stomach, looking glowingly happy. “It’s your wedding. You’re entitled to get nervous, but we’ll manage things. And my pregnancy is progressing exactly as it should.”
Janay reclined on her chair, glad for the excuse to take a break from her duties and have a little sibling-time with Lexi and Brielle. It was still hard for her to believe she was going to be an aunt soon. The happiness bubbling inside her was fierce and strong. She felt quite excited about this new arrival in their family. The bond she shared with her sisters was pure and powerful. She felt forever grateful that she not only had the opportunity to live near them, but also work with them. Sometimes, they had their ups and down, but it always got sorted out in time and without a lot of fuss. She loved them and they were fiercely protective of her. “What about your nausea?” Janay asked.
“I experience it a little bit in the morning, but it’s nothing major. Cole is more worried about it than I am. He damn near hovers over me until I leave the house.” A smile played on her lips as she talked about her husband. “And he’s taking a personal interest in everything I eat. It’s annoying.”
“Quit complaining,” Janay chided as she wrinkled her nose. “You’re lucky to have such a doting husband. Cole is a sweetheart.”
“True, true.” Lexi sighed. “So, tell me about the Carter’s wedding. Did they finally select a menu?”
Janay nervously shifted in her chair. She’d been hoping to avoid giving this news, but now there was no other way around it. “They called to cancel.”
Lexi shot up. “Cancel? Why? What did they say?”
“Relax!” Janay stood, walked over and rested her hand on Lexi’s shoulder. “You’re pregnant, remember.”
Lexi sat back down, but worry showed in her eyes. “How can I not be tense about it? This is the sixth cancellation this year. What’s going on? It can’t be a coincidence. Something’s up. There have never been so many cancellations before.” She reached for the phone on the desk. “Let me call them.”
“No!” Janay ran a hand through her hair as she decided how much she needed to tell Lexi. She went back to her seat, scooted the chair back and sat.
Brielle put her hand on hers. “We’ve got to tell her.”
Lexi leaned forward, looking determined. “What’s going on? Are you guys hiding something from me?”
Brielle cleared her throat. “It’s—Janay found out that Arianna has been spreading ugly rumors about us and our company to our clients and to whomever she comes into contact with.”
“Arianna?” Lexi scowled. “Who the hell…?” Comprehension dawned slowly. “That Arianna? Cole’s ex-fiancé? Didn’t she get community service for what she did?” Lexi shook her head, her eyes pained. “She should’ve learnt her lesson.”
“I guess she didn’t.” Janay put her hand on the table. “I’ve been talking to people who cancelled and they were all approached by her during some random events or in malls or in book clubs. She would accidently run into them and then bad-mouth us.” Janay used air-quotes when she said the word accidentally.
“But how did she know that they’re our clients?”
“She’s still friends with people Cole knows. Some of her social circle is the same. Don’t forget that her parents are loaded and she’s a trust fund baby. She knows people. I’ve seen her in pubs and clubs and even at some events that we’ve hosted.”
Lexi looked distressed. “And now, she has set out to destroy our business.”
Anyone who put that look in her sister’s eyes wasn’t ever going to get away with it. Janay closed her hand into a fist. Oh no! Arianna picked the wrong fight. Janay wouldn’t allow her to get away with it. All she needed to do was figure out how to hit that damn woman back and once she did, Arianna wouldn’t stand a chance. “I don’t want either of you to worry about this.”
“Not worry?” Lexi’s jaw dropped open. “This woman is systematically badmouthing us, trying to ruin the business we built from scratch and sacrifice and you’re telling me—?”
Janay raised a hand, palm up. Resolve pumped through her. “I’m talking to the right people and getting a measure of this woman. She won’t get away with it for long. Remember the Rogers who cancelled an event last year? One of my friends talked to them. They invited me up to their house and I explained the situation. They want to hire us for a party in January.” She pumped her hand in the air. “So, one victory for us. Arianna won’t get away with her lies. Soon, she’ll be exposed and the truth will come out.”
“But that won’t stop her.”
Janay nodded. “We would have to find a more permanent solution, but until then, I’m approaching all the old clients who cancelled and giving them a chance to reconsider their opinion about us.”
“Maybe I should tell Cole to talk to her?” Lexi mused.
“Bad move!” Janay vetoed the idea. “Listen, I’m handling it. Let me come up with a plan. But if you have any ideas, we could work on them.”
Lexi and Brielle stared at each other.
Janay drummed her fingers on the desk. “Great! So, we’ll do it my way. Let me get some more information on this woman and then I’m going to devise a strategy that will blow her out like a candle. Once I’m done with her, she won’t know what hit her. Give me some time.”
Lexi sighed. “All right.”
The sisters got to talking about the other weddings and events they were signed up for. Janay’s cell phone dinged. Picking it up, she checked her message. A smile flitted across her lips.
“What is it?” Lexi didn’t miss a trick. “Anyone we know?”
“Oh! It’s just Fitz. I set him up on a date and he’s sending me updates.”
Brielle shifted to face her. “You set up Randy on a date? Don’t tell me you’ve taken him on as one of your matchmaking projects?”
“Sort of, yes. He wanted me to do it.” Her sisters never approved of her attempts to put people together as sometimes, it got her in front of the firing range. “And I’ve found the perfect girl for him. Met her in the salon. She’s exactly the person he needs in his life.”
Brielle ran her finger over the edge of the desk. “I like Randy. He’s sweet, very caring and determined in his career goals. In fact…” She shook her head. “Whoever he ends up with will be a lucky girl.”
“Back to our work.” Lexi’s voice sounded clipped. “We’re still running a business.”
So, they shifted the discussion to various projects that they had on the upcoming schedule.
After the meeting came to an end, Janay checked over the accounts for the last month. Finishing and filing them, she went into the preparation area to take inventory of all the stuff they brought over from their warehouse for the next day’s event. Although she was the financial head of the company, she was often delegated to do other work. Since it was a business owned and run by the three sisters, they were involved in all aspects of it. Luckily, they didn’t have an event tonight. Around five o’clock, she strode out. Fitz asked her to meet at a café for coffee, so they could rehash his date.
Yeah! She could tell she was on to something. The woman she set him up with was a nice person. He would be sure to like her. Excitement frizzled inside her. She felt immensely proud of her matchmaking abilities. She gleaned a cer
tain level of satisfaction when couples ended up together because of her efforts. Also, Fitz had been alone for so long. It would be interesting to put him together with someone who made him happy. While she marched along the busy roads, she imagined Fitz with a woman who matched him on all levels. Sharon, the girl she set him up with, was perfect in a lot of ways. Of course, Janay didn’t know her as well as her older friends, but she did have a sweet disposition. She seemed to enjoy going out and meeting new people…quite a fun girl to be around.
She tried to imagine them together.
A hot lance of pain exploded inside her stomach as she visualized Fitz with Sharon. It was such an unexpected powerful feeling that for a moment, she halted, unable to process the reason for it. Why would she feel so murderous at the thought of Fitz being with someone else? She saw him plenty of times with other women. Why couldn’t he be with Sharon?
Or maybe she didn’t like the idea of him being with any woman.
Was that it?
Realizing she’d just stopped in the middle of the sidewalk and people were brushing past her, she began to walk again.
Did she feel jealous? For God’s sake, why?
Fitz was her friend. She wanted him to find his bliss with another soul. Why would she feel anxious or unhappy about it? It seemed totally stupid to think like this. Flabbergasted by this new feeling, she fought to dismiss the thought from her mind as she reached the café.
Fitz waited in a corner booth. When he spotted her, he waved.
With a light smile, she joined him. “Hi. So, how was it? Give me all the juicy details.” She eyed the waiter who was heading their way. She felt impressed with his efficiency.
“Impatient, aren’t you?” Fitz replied. “What will you have?”
“Café latte and one of their caramel cookies.”
Fitz then placed his order. “All right, in summary, it was nice,” he said when the waiter moved out of earshot.
