Page 7 of Jackpot Joker

“I was just taking a look at your extensive file, Mr. Caruso. There are several real estate transactions, a few trusts that have been created, and your everyday run-in with small businesses trying to fight their way against a conglomerate such as yours. Tell me, are the sexual harassment suits all hidden? Does someone else handle those? Or do you pay people hush money to keep your filthy name out of their mouths?”

His jaw tightens before it drops wide open at my accusation. Clearly, this man isn’t used to being called out. “Excuse me?” he asks, his chocolate eyes narrowing. “Why in the world would you think my family’s company would have any sort of allegations such as sexual harassment?” His last couple of words are a harsh whisper.

With a roll of my eyes, I release an exasperated sigh. “My first impression was of you fawning over our receptionist. And that kiss you pressed against my skin? It was non-consensual.”

“For now,” he says with a smile and a wink that tells me this man is used to getting exactly what he wants.

“Forever, Mr. Caruso. Trust me when I say there will never be a day when I will ever consent to your lips on my body.”

Even though I have no doubt they would feel so damn good.

His eyes blaze as he stares me down, but after a momentary face-off, Dario Caruso snorts and doubles over in laughter. A cacophony of deep, throaty chuckles fills the lobby, and I glance around to see if anyone else is witnessing his moment of hysteria.

After drawing the attention of several people, Dario sucks in a breath and attempts to regain his composure. “Which one of those sons of bitches put you up to this? Gio? Luca? It had to be Gio, didn’t it? Despite his many talents, Luca isn’t particularly mean. I swear, and people call me the Joker.” The daft man’s smile is wide, but I don’t return it.

“Gio and Luca Caruso? Your brothers? I’m afraid I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting them yet, but if they’re available and take things more seriously than you, I would be more than happy to wait and meet with either of them.”

I turn away from him and head to the elevators to return to my office, where I’m safe from the unseriousness and handsomeness of my client. Calling over my shoulder, I say, “When you’ve managed to get a grip and want to actually talk about business, schedule an appointment.”

When I step into the elevator, I push the button and watch as the doors slowly converge. A strong hand cuts between them before they can close, opening back up to reveal Dario standing there.

“You’re just leaving?”

I roll my eyes. “I wasn’t aware you had anything of value to say.”

“I really need to speak with you regarding an acquisition we would like to make.” He licks his lips, and I hate myself for wondering what they taste like.

With a huff, I reply, “Be here first thing in the morning.”

His smile is wide and so utterly perfect that I have to remind the hussy inside me about my strict ban on fraternizing with clients. “It’s a date, Miss Baker.”

“It’s not a date,” I say as he removes his hand and the doors close.

It’s a meeting with my client.

It is most certainly not a date.

Anna

Jaz, tell us about your first day!

I smile down at the text from my friend even though sadness spreads through my chest. The four of us used to be inseparable, and now our moments together are few and far between. Thank goodness for technology, or my days here would be lonelier than they’ve already been.

Jasmine

It was the first day, so it was more socializing than actual working.

Penny

You love socializing so much.

I can hear the sarcasm from miles away. Peopling isn’t something I’m particularly skilled at or fond of doing.

Jasmine

It wasn't awful, I guess.

Skyla