Jennifer's Garden by Dianne Venetta Read Free Book Online

up.
    “Let me talk to her.  I’ll see her at the hospital later this morning and we can straighten this whole thing out.”
    “I appreciate it Mike, but don’t go to any trouble on my behalf.  I’ve got other jobs going right now.  I’m okay if I lose this one.”
    “Hell, it’s not you I’m worried about!  It’s Jennifer.  She needs this job done in a hurry and there’s no one better to make that happen than you, Jax.”
    Though pleased by the vote of confidence, he wasn’t so sure.  Dr. Hamilton was not going to be an easy woman to work for—or around—as the case may prove, especially under the pressure of time.
    “Let me think about it, Mike.”
    “Jax—I need you to do more than think about it.  She needs you.”
    He laughed, and let go of the earlier insults entirely.  “She doesn’t need me.  There are plenty of good landscapers out there who can handle the job, but thanks for the good word.  I appreciate it.”
    Mike spoke to someone on his end then said into the phone, “Listen Jax, I’ve got to run.  Tell me you’ll reconsider.”
    Jackson took pause, ambivalence churning in his gut.  He wouldn’t be where he was today if it weren’t for Mike’s referrals.  And he was damn close to where he was going.
    Because of this man.  “Okay.  If it’s that important to you, I’ll do it.”
    Let’s just hope I don’t regret it .

 
     
     
     
    Chapter Five
     
     
    Jennifer dialed Michael’s number on the way out her door, her stomach tumbling with nerves.  It was imperative she apologize for declining his recommendation—though she still couldn’t accept that Jackson Montgomery was the person responsible for Michael’s gorgeous landscaping.  His yard was incredible!  How was it possible?
    Impossible.  The man who showed up at her door wasn’t a professional.  He didn’t carry a notebook or portfolio.  He wasn’t conducting a true business operation.
    Something must have changed.  Michael’s yard had been done years ago.  There must have been a partner at the time, someone who made all the decisions, unbeknownst to Michael, for which this fellow took all the credit.
    Frustration eased.  Poor Michael.  Trusting as a new fawn, he was out waving this Jackson’s banner, bringing him more and more clients to bilk without the first clue he was aiding and abetting a con.  She slipped the phone against her ear and awaited his answer.
    Far be it from her to drown his good deeds with cold water, but she had no intention of falling prey to Mr. Montgomery’s swindle.
    “Michael Kingsley.”
    “Hello, Michael.”
    “Jennifer—I talked to Jax.  What happened over there?”
    So, he was a step ahead of her.  Her stomach cinched tight.  God only knows what his version sounded like.  But it was irrelevant.  Her task was to make Michael understand the underlying issue—the man’s obvious lack of expertise—and to do so without insulting him, her friend.  She would assure Michael the setback was not a problem.  She would find someone else.
    A daunting prospect, one looming heavy on her mind.
    “We didn’t get off to a good start, Michael,” she said, forging ahead, proud of the calm and professional ring to her voice.  “But it’s just as well.  It wouldn’t have worked out between us, though I appreciate your help with—“
    “Why not?”
    The million dollar question , she mused.
    “Jennifer.”  Michael’s voice picked up strength as he barreled forward, “Jax is the best in the business.  I’ve seen other jobs he’s done and he’s amazing.  He can finish your place ten times faster than anyone—and he’ll do it right, for a fair price.  Trust me, you need him.”
    Bless his heart, he was only trying to help, but she didn’t need this Jackson.  If he could get it done, so could someone else.  Time constraints or not.  “I’m sorry, Michael, but I think I’d feel better if I knew I was dealing with a larger firm,” she said, hoping to