Birthrights by Christine M. Butler Read Free Book Online

and
there was also a special ward on all the entrances that made the
bell go off as well. The ward was a part of the security system
that was in place. It let the the workers know when someone was
there and it also protected the very valuable inventory the store
had. Jax always felt more secure knowing there was an early warning
system of sorts.
    That tingling sensation crawled over her skin again,
just as the bells on the front door came to life. She knew Seth had
walked in even before she turned to look at him.
    “Welcome to Pithview Gallery on the Pasquotank. Is
there anything I can help you with this evening?”
    The man from the night before walked confidently
towards her, his dark hair falling slightly in front of his bright
green eyes.
    “Of course,” his voice whispered like the wind across
her skin. Jax held back a shiver. Just two words and this man had
her reacting like a silly young girl. She smiled politely, waiting
for him to continue. 'I really hope he doesn’t start with some
corny pick up line,' she thought, 'I am so not in the mood.'
    Placing his hands on the counter, Seth smiled at her.
There was humor in those eyes and briefly Jax wondered if he had
heard her thoughts. He chuckled and held his hand across the
counter towards her, “I've been here at least twice this year
and haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Ronald’s newest hire. I am
Seth Landry, Director of Development for Pithview Galleries.”
    Jax stared at his hand for a moment. He had long
fingers, well manicured nails, and although the skin was as light
and smooth as marble. The ring on his finger shimmered in the
lights of the gallery. Jax could tell it was an old ring, bearing a
crest of some sort. Raising an eyebrow, Jax looked at the handsome
man, “Director of Development, huh?”
    “Its more of a fancy title meaning glorified
consultant,” he grinned, easing the lines in his face and giving
him a more boyish quality. Shaking his hand slowly, she introduced
herself. “Jaxon Delaney”
    “Yes,” he said slowly, “Jasmine Jaxon Delaney I knew
you looked familiar. You worked in the Raleigh Gallery of Arts
didn’t you?” Seth inquired. Jax took her hand back abruptly.
    “It is one of the Pithview Gallery branches, as is
this one. Though it doesn‘t bare the Pithview name, we acquired
this gallery about seven months ago.” Seth continued, seemingly
confused at Jaxon's reaction to his recognizing her.
    Jaxon thought for a moment. How could she have been
so stupid? It would be just her luck as to leave a trail as blatant
as this! Covering her panic, she said, “Yes, I did work there.
But I find this gallery more challenging. The atmosphere and
community provide a haven of sorts, from the limelight and stress
of a larger city gallery.” As she spoke she was hoping that her
desire to be left alone would show through her words and he would
leave as quickly as he had come.
    For just a moment, Jaxon thought Seth would do
exactly as she hoped when he started to take a step towards the
door. But then he stopped himself and turned back towards
Jaxon.
    “You know, you have quite a reputation amongst the
galleries. Your ability to find new talent precedes you. I hope
that you will put that same type of ethics to work here in
Elizabeth City. This gallery needs some,” he looked around with
little interest before finishing, “rejuvenation.”
    Jaxon immediately heard the difference in his voice.
His tone had gone from a seductive quality that one could almost
see, to professional and cold. She stood so that he wasn’t looking
down on her anymore, with his condescending air.
    “If you are aware of my reputation, then I am sure
you realize that I didn’t come by it with a lackadaisical attitude.
I do intend to revive this gallery, you can be assured of that. I
also don't plan on allowing a 'glorified consultant' to walk in and
take all the credit.” she spouted haughtily, throwing his
self-professed title back at him.
    Seth