Page 19 of The Singles Club

I ran my hand over the package. I did alright, low millions, but nothing compared to the Freemans.

“Can I offer one piece of advice as a friend instead of an employee?” Isabella clasped one hand over the other, seemingly wary of what she was about to say next.

“Yes.”

“Don’t fall in love with her. Vivian is an awesome friend, and I love her, but she’s bad with relationships…andshe’s moving to Paris in just over a month.”

A possible heartbreaker moving out of the country? I’d have to tread carefully with this one.

“Thank you for the warning, but I can handle myself just fine.”

“Of course you can.” There wasn’t much confidence behind her words. “Do you need anything before I go?”

“No, but thank you.”

“See you tomorrow.”

“Goodnight.”

As soon as she left, I undid the blue ribbon tied around the box. Inside was a very nice deep purple silk tie and a card.

Thank you for the flowers. A very thoughtful way to get out of calling me. I recommend this tie when you go for your final meeting to close the deal. Good luck.

I couldn’t help but smile. As much as I tried to deny it… I wasinterested. Not so much in dating or a relationship, but I wanted to know more about Vivian Hall and what made her tick. The fact that she didn’t believe in love fascinated me. I grabbed the sticky note and stared down at the number. The best thing to do would be to end this right here and now, but I had to at least thank her for the tie… and I could really use her advice for this meeting.

Instead of a phone call, I typed out a message after adding her number into my contacts list.

J: Does a text count as a phone call, or am I in the clear?

V: Not officially, but it definitely counts.

J: Thank you for the tie… a very thoughtful way to get out of calling me. ;)

V: I never turn down a good challenge from a worthy opponent.

J: How about we call a truce? I will admit you won our little calling game if you help me pick out the perfect suit for my meeting with Rajesh.

V: I did win our calling game, whether you admit to it or not. But I’m not entirely heartless. You help me win my bet, and I will help you win that deal.

I shook my head, a smirk forming around the corners of my mouth.

J: Are you blackmailing me?

V: Not at all. I’m merely offering a business proposition. A win-win situation. But, of course, if you’d rather not, then I wish you all the best with your meeting…

J: I will agree to a date on one condition: no more games. Complete honesty.

V: That’s two conditions.

I laughed out loud. Something I hadn’t done in a while.

V: But fine. I will agree to those two conditions.

J: Then we have a business deal.

V: Why do I feel like you’re getting the better end of the deal?

J: You’re not the only fashionista in this city. I’m sure I can find someone else on such short notice who doesn’t require a date.