Because of You by Rochelle Alers Read Free Book Online Page B

in the city.”
    Jordan nodded. “My salary topped out at high six figures, including bonuses, but the trade-off was working an average of sixty to seventy hours a week. That left very little time for socializing. Whenever I was able to take a vacation I was too tired to do anything more than sleep, get up and shower, eat and then sleep some more. I knew I couldn’t continue at that pace, so I walked into the office of one of the senior partners and handed in my resignation.
    â€œMy grandfather wanted me to come back to Wainwright Developers Group to head the legal department and set my own hours, but that would be like taking a step backward.”
    â€œWhat did you finally decide to do?”
    Jordan’s hands moved up and over her calves. “I moved out of my parents’ house, bought a condo and spent thenext four months relaxing in a villa in Costa Rica while it was renovated and decorated.”
    Aziza stared at the long fingers gently massaging her legs and feet, wondering if Jordan knew how much his light touch had aroused her. The area at the apex of her thighs pulsed with sensations she hadn’t felt in a while. She wanted to tell him to stop, but didn’t because the seemingly innocent stroking was so pleasurable that she wanted it to go on—forever.
    â€œHow could you go away and not monitor what was being done?”
    â€œThe architect and interior designer emailed me weekly updates.”
    She smiled. “Clever.”
    â€œThe internet ranks right up there with the finest French champagne and Persian beluga caviar.”
    Aziza wrinkled her nose. “I wouldn’t know about that because someone ate mine.”
    Jordan rolled his eyes. “Okay, I’m sorry I ate your caviar. I’ll make it up to you.”
    â€œHow?” she asked, pouting as she’d done when her older brothers wouldn’t let her tag along with them whenever they’d wanted to hang out with their friends.
    â€œI’ll buy you a tin.”
    She shook her head. “I don’t need a tin. One toast point or a tiny spoonful will do.”
    Jordan released her legs and got up from the love seat. “I’ll go and see if there’s any left.”
    Aziza watched him leave, silently admiring the way his trousers fit his waist and hips. It was obvious Jordan didn’t buy his clothes off the rack. She unfolded her legs, slipping her feet into her shoes, and stood up. Walking across the room, she opened the door and plowed into her brother.
    â€œI was just coming to get you. You did promise to dance with me,” Alexander said when she gave him a blank stare.
    She held back when he grasped her hand. “I need to wait for Jordan to get back.”
    â€œJordan will know where to find you.”
    Aziza knew physically she was no match for Al, so she followed his lead where revelers had crowded into the atrium that was designed to resemble an indoor rainforest. A DJ was busying spinning tunes, while couples were on their feet dancing to an infectious Black Eyed Peas song.
    â€œNow, isn’t this better than sitting home alone?” Alexander said in her ear as he swung her around and around in an intricate dance step.
    â€œIt’s all right,” she admitted.
    â€œLiar!”
    â€œOkay. I’m having a good time.”
    The truth was Aziza was really enjoying herself, and she knew Jordan was responsible for keeping her entertained. She’d felt comfortable talking to him, and he exhibited none of the brashness she’d seen during the televised news conference. Perhaps that was what he’d wanted the audience to see. After all, she’d performed more times than she could count in the courtroom. Some judges didn’t care for theatrics, so Aziza knew to keep it to a minimum.
    Alexander tightened his grip on his sister’s waist. “Does Jordan Wainwright have anything to do with you having a good time?”
    Aziza missed a step,