Page 1 of Discretion

CHAPTER ONE

“You’re just in time.” Darla grinned, her distinctive Southern twang as prominent as ever. I didn’t miss the twinkle in her eye either.

My former chief of staff might be pushing sixty, but her gray hair was the only indication. She was just as feisty as ever.

“Just in time for what?” I asked, wary.

I’d come over to take her out to dinner. To wine and dine her so she’d remember how much she’d loved working with me. And ultimately, to convince her to return to her job.

“Book Club Bitches. They’ve all been dying to meet you.”

So much for wining and dining.But I wasn’t easily deterred.

“Darla…” I let out an exaggerated sigh. “What did you tell them about me?” I was teasing.

“Enough.” The corner of her mouth was turned up in a mischievous smile. She grabbed my arm and pulled me into her house. “They actually wanted to ask you a few questions.”

Really?“About what?”

“You’ll see,” she said, vague as ever.

Intrigued, I let her guide me out to her back garden,which was lush and overflowing. It reminded me of Gran’s garden from my childhood. It made me miss both her and my brother, Graham, who now lived in France. They had a gift for creating the most magical outdoor spaces. So much so that sometimes it felt as if stepping into another world.

“How’s it going with Sumner?” Darla asked.

“Great,” I said. “Thanks again for recommending her. She’s brilliant.”

Darla grinned. “Good. I knew you two would hit it off.”

Darla had been right, of course. Sumner was my life coach, and she’d been full of thoughtful advice. She’d helped me gain insight not only into the company but into myself. My motivations. My fears. My goals, especially as I’d transitioned into my new role as CEO.

“And here we are,” Darla said as we approached a group of women. “Ladies, this is Jasper Mackenzie.”

I felt as if they were sizing me up. Several of them were not at all subtle in checking me out, and I bit back a smile.

“Good evening, ladies,” I said to the group.

Darla made the introductions, and I greeted each of them by name. Becky, Beth, and Mary.

“So nice to finally meet LA’sinfamousplayboy billionaire,Jasper Mackenzie,” Becky said in a cheeky tone as I shook her hand.

Infamous?What had Darla been telling them about me? And why did I get the feeling this was a trap?

“Let’s just get this out of the way since I know everyone wants to ask.” Darla turned to me. “Are you seeing anyone?”

Jeez. Talk about putting me on the spot. “I’m not sure that’s an appropriate question for an employee to ask the boss,” I teased, evading the question.

“Former boss,” she corrected.

“You’re right,” I agreed, pretending to be chastened. But then I said, “Still not appropriate.”

“When has Darla ever been appropriate?” one of the other women—Beth—asked with a laugh.

I chuckled and took a seat next to Becky. “With me? Never.”

Becky patted my thigh. “I have a granddaughter I’d love to set you up with.”

“Granddaughter?” I jerked my head back. “I’m sure she’s way too young for me.”