She peered up at his face, narrowing her eyebrows. “Did you assume I would stand you up and you needed to pressure me?” She smiled, hoping the words didn’t emerge harsh. She didn’t think Jordan was the domineering type, and s he didn’t mind him pursuing her; actually , it was rather flattering. But she would never allow a man to control her again.
“Not exactly. I just couldn’t wait to see you. I had to make sure I didn’t dream you up. And now I see you’re even more beautiful than I remember yesterday.” His eyes smoldered, and she felt her emotions spiraling inside again. “Are you okay with me coming here?”
His honesty surprised her, sparking something within. Why should she conceal her interest? She only hoped he wasn’t pretending attraction in expectation of a vacation fling.
She sighed deeply. “It was a long day for me.”
He smiled, obviously pleased with her admission. He pushed the tomatoes aside to the bread plate then speared a perfect forkful of salad. “I won’t hold up your table, but I did need to eat.”
Jaynee stood up. She couldn’t remain with one customer without getting into trouble.
“Well, it’s not as if you don’t tip well. Do you always double the gratuity, or was that just for me?” The hostess trailed two older couples behind her, he ading toward one of her tables. “Sorry, I have to move around, and Amy’s getting ready to seat me.”
“Of course.” Jordan gestured his hand for her to proceed. “As long as you regard me as your number one priority, that’s all I ask.”
His eyes were intense, and Jaynee couldn’t suppress a laugh at his request. “Number one priority? Well, okay if that’s all…” What was he asking, and why was she okay with it? Two states separated them. Where did he intend on this going? Was this just an affair to remember or worse—to forget? He seemed so sincere, and she didn’t want to destroy what little enjoyment she could have by broaching the subject.
“And yes, I always double the tip when I dine alone. It doesn’t seem fair otherwise.”
She smiled at him and shook her head, letting out a small huff. “So it wasn’t just me,” she teased, but walked away before he could comment. He was too cute and too sweet, which meant he was too good to be true.
Jaynee assisted her other tables but always kept her attention on Jordan—she didn’t want him to think he wasn’t her number one priority. She made certain she was in the ki tchen when his dinner was ready, and t hen gr abbing another fresh mug of tea, headed to his table.
After he’d finished his meal, she left the check and waited on her other customers.
He stood up as she returned to him. “Will I distract you if I sit at the bar?” His fingers grazed hers as he handed her the folder with the dinner check inside. She could see two bills sticking out. He obviously gave her way too much of a tip again.
Her heart thudded uncontrollably at his slight touch. “Yes…” she admitted, gulping, but hoped he would.
“Good.” He flashed a wicked grin then strolled toward the bar.
Jaynee did something unprecedented. “Tim.” She walked up to the general manager hesitantly. It was too early for him to cut a server, but other waiters had asked this early. She knew this, of course, because she was always picking up their slack. “I know it’s early, but could you close my station.”
Tim’s head cocked slightly “Seriously? You never ask me to cut you early, C.J. Don’t tell me you’re gonna start acting like the rest of the college kids?”
“No, no, it’s nothing like that. Actually, I have a paper due, and I need to work on it,” she lied lightly. She really did need to work on her novella ; though , she had no plans on doing that tonight.
“Fine, I’ll tell Amy not to seat you again.” She turned to walk off, hoping he wouldn’t press her. “But, C.J…” She turned to look back at him . “Please don’t make this a habit. I like the
Aiden James, Michelle Wright