Page 35 of One Bad Idea

When Cassidy nudged her hand closer, I finally took it. As she helped me to my feet, I gave her what I hoped was an apologetic smile. "Sorry," I whispered. "I guess I blew it, huh?"

I surehopedI blew it.

Thatwasthe plan, after all.

Cassidy turned and gave Jax a questioning look. As she did, I snuck a quick glance at Jaden. Or rather, it wassupposedto be a quick glance. But his gaze locked on mine, and suddenly, I couldn’t make myself look away.

His eyes were dark and dangerous and filled with something new – something I couldn't quite decipher. With a slow shake of his head, he asked, "Who the hell are you, anyway?"

But it was his brother who replied. "She's Allie Brewster." His voice hardened. "Your new assistant."

I blinked.Huh?

Jaden's assistant?

Not Jax's?

With a muttered curse, Jaden glared at his brother. "You're joking, right?"

In reply, Jax looked to me and said two terrifying words. "Welcome aboard."

Chapter 14

After delivering this job-related bombshell, Jax turned and stalked back into his office.

Beyond confused, I scrambled after him, with Jaden and Cassidy close on my heels.

Cassidy called out, "Wait, I thought she'd be working foryou."

Jaden said, "Yeah, what the hell?"

Jax stopped and slowly turned around. He gave his brother a serious look. "I already have an assistant."

Cassidy spoke up. "You do?"

"Yes," Jax replied. "I do." He flicked his head toward his brother. "Morgan washisassistant, not mine."

I looked from brother to brother.

Oh, crap.

This was no joke.

And now, I didn't know what to do.

Desperately, I'd wanted Cassidy to get the job. But there was no way I'd ever want her working for such an insufferable jackass.

She'd be miserable. I just knew it.

Again, I asked myself that terrible question.What now?

Jaden was still glaring at his brother, "So we'll switch, not a big deal."

At this, I perked up.Yes. A switch.For once, I totally agreed with the jackass. It would be the perfect solution.

But Jax wasn't buying it. "Wecan'tswitch," he replied. "You know it. And I know it."

Cassidy broke in, "Wait, why can't you switch?"