Trusting Jake (Blueprint To Love Book 1) Read Online Free PDF

day or two." Though she tried, Jenna couldn't hide her eagerness. Offered a full on smile, Jake's stupid heartbeat accelerated. Jesus– this one was dangerous. Time to make an escape, he decided, surprised by the twinge of reluctance. If he hired her, he'd have to get his act together. She'd be off-limits. Hell, she already was off-limits. She’s married, idiot. "I should probably be going."
    "Thanks for having dinner with us. You were really patient with Alex and Meg."
    "They're great kids. I enjoyed it." He trailed her to the foyer, appreciating the companionable silence. "Your jacket's still in my truck."
    "I'll walk out with you."
    Stepping out into the sultry night, Jake paused on the walkway, admiring a riotous spill of petunias overflowing from a planter on the step. Though she hadn't lived there long, Jenna had clearly placed her stamp on the little house. The blanket of humidity was suddenly broken by a rare breeze. If he'd owned a porch swing, this would be the night to sit in it. Jenna followed him onto the stoop, leaning against the storm door while he retrieved her jacket. Light from the kitchen filtered through the glass door behind her, shimmering through her long, red-gold waves.
    "Jake– I just want to thank you again. For rescuing me. For driving me home." She shrugged. "For driving over here tonight because I forgot my jacket. You've been very kind."
    "It was nothing-" His stomach did a strange flip when she smiled.
    "It wasn't nothing," she insisted. "So, even if you ultimately decide I'm not the person you're looking for . . . I just wanted you to know I appreciate the opportunity."
    "You're welcome."
    She stared at him as though she were searching for something. "I'll look forward to hearing from you."
    As he started his truck, Jake sensed her standing in the doorway. Resisting the urge to glance back, he wondered why it felt as though something important had just happened.
    ***
    The job was hers– if the office manager had anything to say about it. Mrs. Reilly practically beamed over Jen's qualifications. It was definitely hers to lose. And it was an incredible job, she was reluctant to admit. Great benefits, nice working conditions. She tried not to want it too much.
    Seated in the lobby, she waited for the final interview with Jake. It had to be a good omen she'd been given a tour of the building. The atmosphere was friendly. Laughter in the employee kitchen had brought a wistful smile to her lips. Everything there seemed so . . . professional.
    "Mrs. Stone? We're ready for you." Mrs. Reilly offered an encouraging smile. The receptionist gave a little wave as she followed the older woman down the hall. The busy noise of the reception area faded, absorbed by the plush carpet beneath her feet.
    "This is Mr. Traynor's office. Have a seat and he'll be with you shortly." Mrs. Reilly quietly shut the door behind her. Setting her purse on the floor, she glanced around the large office. Muted colors in both furnishings and carpet were easy on the eye. A well-worn leather swivel chair sat behind the polished oak desk. She noted the large drawing table in one corner. Definitely a working office.
    Scanning the art on the walls, she searched for clues to Jake's personality. She'd thought about him too many times over the last several days. And not about working for him. That admission was enough to make her shift uncomfortably. His attractiveness should be a drawback– not an asset. But admiring him couldn't get her into trouble. Acting on it– now that would be disastrous. Forcing her brain back to business, she registered the framed diplomas on the back wall, attesting to a degree in construction engineering and an advanced degree in finance.
    The wall of glass behind his desk revealed a sloping, manicured lawn that ended in a grove of birch trees. A soft breeze drifted through the open window. When she heard the door open, Jen crossed her fingers. Rising from her seat, she turned to face him.
    "Jake–