Page 125 of The Jaded Notes

She raises her glass to Cindy in a toast that looks like a declaration of war. “To growing up and learning to recognize poison when it’s served with a smile.”

“Oh, how dramatic.” Cindy claps her hands together like she’s watching a particularly entertaining show. “You always were such a little actress, weren’t you? Though I suppose some people never outgrow the need for attention.”

Quinn steps forward, her glare blazing with fury that comes from watching someone kick a wounded animal. “You know what? I think it’s time for you to fuck off.”

“Excuse me?” Cindy’s voice rises with shock. “Did you just?—”

“I said fuck off.” Quinn’s grin is all teeth and no warmth. “You heard me correctly the first time. Now either walk away from my friend, or I’ll make sure everyone at this wedding knows exactly what kind of person goes after teenagers at family parties.”

The threat hangs in the air like heavy, dark smoke. Cindy seems to be calculating whether the potential scandal is worth whatever satisfaction she’s getting from torturing Livianna.

“How refreshing to meet someone with such...colorful language.” Cindy’s clutch on my arm tightens to the point of pain. “Jaxon, perhaps you should have a word with your employee about appropriate professional behavior.”

The assumption that I’ll take her side and that I’ll prioritize her comfort over Livianna’s well-being makes something savage rise in my chest.

“Actually, I think Quinn is handling this exactly as she should.” I stare at Cindy, letting her see the anger in my expression. “Perhaps it’s time we rejoined the other guests.”

For a moment, Cindy seems genuinely surprised, like she expected me to fall in line with her cruelty. Then her mask slips back into place, and she releases my arm with deliberate casualness.

“Of course, handsome. Though I do hope we can continue catching up later, Livianna. There’s so much more to reminisce about.” The promise in her words feels like a threat.

Livianna holds her composure, but there’s a fracture surrounding her. Cindy glides away with the satisfaction of someone who’s accomplished exactly what she set out to do.

I glance over my shoulder only to see Livianna turn on her heels and order another drink. And there’s nothing I can do to make it better for her other than stay by Cindy’s side and keep her away from Livianna.

“You’re more spiteful than I remember.” I grind on my molars.

Cindy cuddles into my side, not picking up on any clue I’m not interested. She’s still into cocaine like she was back then, but instead of looking forward to the effect that held in the bedroom at the end of the night, I’m wondering how the hell I’ll make this up to the woman I love.

Cindy giggles. “I’m not being spiteful. I just thought I’d have a little fun.”

“At someone else’s expense. Someone who didn’t deserve it.”

“Oh, my. You seem defensive of Livianna. Is there something I should know?”

“Not at all, but you of all people know I’m friends with her father, and he would hate the way you just treated her.”

Cindy’s stance melts against me. “Shit. I wasn’t thinking about Greg.”

“Obviously. Maybe you should in the future. He’s not someone I would want on my bad side.”

She shudders. “Yeah, me either.”

“Then that settles it.” I step away just enough to give us space and pretend to straighten out my jacket. “You’ll apologize to Livianna before we leave tonight.”

Cindy peeks over at me with those sinful eyes. “Does that mean I’m getting a spanking later?”

I just shake my head and look away. Fuck me. If this night isn’t a disaster waiting to knock me down a level or two. And with Livianna staying with her parents until she finds a house to buy, I’m afraid the damage is only just beginning.

The next morning arrives with a brutal kick of Los Angeles sunshine that makes hangovers feel like divine punishment. Ifind myself standing on the steps of the Hemings estate with a bouquet of excuses and a chest full of guilt.

“Jaxon, what a pleasant surprise.” Lorna opens the door, wearing a soft bamboo robe and a smile, suggesting she’s still riding the high of last night’s matchmaking triumph. “I wasn’t expecting to see you.”

“I hope I’m not intruding.” My stomach spins as I step into the foyer, taking in the fresh flowers that always make this house feel like a magazine spread. “I wanted to speak with you and Greg about a business opportunity.”

It’s not entirely untrue. What I’m about to propose does involve business, even if my motivations are deeply personal and tangled up in the need to fix what Cindy destroyed last night.

“Of course. Greg’s in his study.” She leads me through the hallway that’s lined with family photos. “How was the rest of your evening with Cindy? You two left rather suddenly.”