An Arrangement of Love Read Online Free PDF Page B

to the Help Clean Up South End program. And anytime you worked summer jobs, you sent most of your money to your mom and the rest to your brothers in jail. How were you able to pay your own bills?”
    “Benny Nix helped me when I really needed it.”
    “You give a lot to everyone around you and ask for nothing in return.”
    “Why does any of this matter to you?” I asked.
    He grinned. “You make me feel selfish and lazy.”
    I threw him a skeptical look.
    “I’m serious. Another reason why I wanted you around is because I think you can help me be a better person.”
    Yeah right.
    “I’m truly sorry,” he said. “Now tell me, Ms. Jasmine Montgomery. Have I groveled enough or should I get on my knees and recite a sonnet?”
    A smile widened across my face.
    “That look says you would like me on my knees.” He gripped the chair. “What do you need me to do to make this right?”
    He’s sorry. I think. And remember the salary.
    Sighing, I raised my glass in the air and clinked his. “To a professional working relationship.”
    I’ll still apply to more jobs tomorrow.
    “And to a new beginning,” he added.
    “Hello, Jasmine,” a woman said behind me. I turned around. A tall woman with long blonde hair and blue eyes smiled at me. A crimson dress formed around her perfect body. She extended her hand. “I’m Dawn Benson. Chase’s fiancée.”
    This night just keeps getting better and better.
    I stood up and shook her hand. “Nice to meet you.”
    “You should put in a complaint about your yearbook pictures,” she said. “I expected a cutie, but you’re captivating.”
    What does one say to that?
    “Thank you...you’re also beautiful.” I tried to let go of her hand, but Dawn wouldn’t release it. Instead she gently squeezed my fingers. “Welcome to our family. I think you’re worthy. Do you?”
    I paused for a minute and then responded, “Yes.”
    She traced a circle on my hand with her thumb. “I’m truly excited.”
    And you’re creeping me out.
    “Dawn.” Chase rose and placed his arm around her shoulder. She released my hand. He flashed me a weak smile. “I’m sure Jasmine would love to go greet her friend and brother over there.”
    I looked at where he was pointing. Vivian and Troy stepped off the elevator. “Oh yes. I would. If that’s okay.”
    “Sure. I just wanted to see how the make-over turned out.” Chase allowed his eyes to travel down my body one last time and then said, “Consider yourself free for the rest of the evening. I will see you Monday morning, correct?”
    “Yes.”
    “Goodnight, Jasmine.” He grinned.
    “Nice meeting you,” Dawn added.
    “Also.” Chase touched my arm and I paused. “Tell your brother to come by human resources on Monday. I’ve heard it’s pretty difficult for an ex-con to get a job. However, my company always needs guards. Tell him he has a job with me if he wants it.”
    Shocked, I nodded. “I really appreciate that. Thanks so much.”
    “No problem,” he said. “When you join with me, you never have to worry about taking care of your family again.”
    “Good. Because I definitely need the help.”

Chapter 4
    “ It’s about time.” I tapped Troy on his shoulder as we headed toward a small bar beyond the furry white couches and chairs. “I figured you both were lost.”
    “It’s my first night out of jail. I had to drag Vivian on the dance floor.” Troy had taken off his tuxedo jacket and neck tie, probably before he’d parked the car. His white shirt was open and exposed some of his chest. “Vivian has some hot moves.”
    She slid onto a gold leather barstool. “Your sister has been tutoring me in Dance 101.”
    “Well that’s scary.” He shifted his face into a terrified look.
    “Oh stop.” I hit his side. “I have skills now. I’ve learned some things since you’ve been gone.”
    Gold glitter stuck to Vivian and Troy’s skin, making them sparkle in the amber light.
    “I’ll believe that when I see it.”