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“No.”

“Then what’s the problem?” Jesse asked.

“Is this the reason that you sold some of the companies? Hired more staff? Started to cut back your hours?”

Jesse stared at his general manager. No, William was more than that. He was a friend. They’d worked together for years.William had started as a blackjack dealer before working his way up. The two of them had spent many nights drinking and imagining how to make the casino the best one in the city. “Yes.”

“Good.”

Jesse lifted a brow. “Good?”

“About damn time,” William offered.

“Yeah.” Jesse laughed.

“I hope everything works out for the two of you,” William said.

“Thanks.” Jesse meant it.

William smiled. “I better get back to work.”

“I’ll see you later,” Jesse promised. He waited until he was alone in the office to flop back in his chair. He was not happy with the report but what could he do?

His phone chimed.

Jesse grabbed his cell and grinned. He loved seeing Lake’s name across the screen.

Lake:I’m stopping by the coffee shop before my shift

Lake:Meet me?

He hurried to type a message.Yes, how long?

Lake:Pulling into the parking garage

I’ll see you in ten

Lake:K

Jesse chuckled. He had a surprise for his boy. Opening his bottom drawer, Jesse pulled out the new pair of sparkling shoes for Zeb. Al was currently resting on Jesse’s bed, but Zeb was never out of Lake’s reach. The boy took his favorite stuffie everywhere.

“Mason?” Jesse called through the open door.

His assistant stuck his head in. “What’s up, boss?”

“I’m running down to the coffee shop,” Jesse told him.

“Oh! I can go,” Mason offered.

“Not unless you plan to give Lake kisses as well?” Jesse teased.

Mason held up his hands. “I’m pretty sure that you can handle that. You’re clear for at least an hour but then we have that call with the investors in New York for the new shopping center.”

Jesse rose and stuffed the present for Lake in his pocket. “That’s fine. I went over the numbers this morning.”

“Great,” Mason replied. He ducked back out of sight.

“Hey, Mas,” Jesse called.