Page 21 of Jase

The girl wiggled in her chair, and I knew she was going to be the one to present.

“Yes, Sir. We’ve gone over the numbers for those investing in products. Over seventy-percent—”

“I know the numbers. Tell me how to turn that seventy-two-point-four percent into eighty.”

She quickly nodded. “Video, Sir. Kramer and I don’t have all the kinks out yet, but right now we allow them to advertise on the site. Somehow, we incorporate their products into video. Not just ads at the top or bottom of the page. Perhaps they can pay to have video directly messaged to their followers. Think virtual newsletters without the private email. The user would have the option to opt out if they prefer not to receive it. If they do, they never have to leave the site. It’s a rough idea, but I think users are moving more towards video, and to receive it in their inbox is more personal than their feed, plus it keeps them here with us. It may pay off.”

My mouth twisted. “Personal or annoyance? Work on it. We’ll discuss it more in detail next week.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Rian?”

“You know everything I do.”

“Agreed. Get with those under you. Discuss what they have. I’ll talk to you all at the same time, next week.”

I hit the button, disconnecting my feed. My eyes cut up over my laptop and scanned the wall of monitors. All I cared for was the large screen in the middle that showed Kody’s living area, courtesy of her desktop’s webcam in the back corner of the room. Kody was on the sofa while Tiffany was in the kitchen making something in a mug. I clicked the unmute button, captivated as I watched.

“Give it a few weeks. Let the bruising go down. Greg said there’s no hurry. Your job is secure, babe. Right now, you just need to heal.”

Kody reached up, pulling off the shades. One of her eyes was still slightly swollen, and the bruising looked worse than when I’d seen her in the hospital’s sitting room. The colors were brighter. Darker. It wasn’t fair that I couldn’t kill that son of a bitch twice. I’d pay anything to give him what he truly deserved.

“How long do you think it’ll take? Weeks? Months? I don’t even look the same, Tiff. My face—”

“Will heal. One day at a time. We talked about this.”

“I know.”

“You’re going to be okay. When they catch this bastard, he’s gonna pay. You better believe that.”

Kody’s gaze lifted and she opened her mouth, only to close it. My eyes narrowed as I waited for her to tell her friend I killed him.

“You’re right. One day at a time.”

Tiffany’s lips pulled back into a soft smile, and she headed for Kody, carrying what looked to be tea. I found myself standing as I walked closer.

Why hadn’t she told her friend what I’d done?

“Are you sure you don’t want me to stay here for a few days until you’re better? I don’t mind, really. I can’t stand that you’re going to be here alone.”

“Tiff, it’s been almost two weeks—

“Twelve days, Kody. And that’s because we had to convince you to stay at the hospital for the last two days.”

“Because I’m fine. It’s rough with my hand, but it gets easier every day. I’m going to have to get used to it anyway. Besides, I’m all the way across the city from work. I’m okay. I told you, I’ll wait for you to get here before I go places. I can order food or grocery delivery. I’ll be fine.”

“I don’t mind making the trip. You do it every day. It’s not a big deal. I want to be here for you.”

“I know you do but staying here won’t work. You sleep until the very last minute you’re able. You hate waking up early. You hate traffic. Besides…I want to be alone. I haven’t had a good night’s sleep since I was taken. The nurses were in nonstop to check on me. I’m dying to be back in my own bed. If you’re here, all I’ll do is worry. I need silence and peace so I can work this stuff out in my mind. I’m begging you, Tiff.”

The friend gave her a concerned look, but it ultimately turned into understanding as she nodded. Was Kody the type of person who worried a lot?

“Fine. But you know I don’t need you to play host for me. I know where the food is. I know where the towels are. I can take care of myself. I’d even battle traffic for you and wake up early. Better be glad I love you or else I’d be moving in. You need your space. I get it. Just promise to call—”

“If I need anything. I know.”

A pained look took over the friend’s face. “I’m not sure you do. It is okay to ask for help, Kody. You don’t have to be strong all the time. You take care of everyone but yourself. You know I’m right. You do it at work. You used to do it with your mom. It’s my turn to take care of you. I’m serious. Call me the moment you need something. Even if it’s someone to hold you while you sleep. I got you.”