The Biggest Part of Me by Malinda Martin Read Free Book Online

felt his breathing become labored.  Why was she with this clown, letting him paw her?  Didn’t she have standards?  He could see right through this Ed Simpson.  He was nothing but a user.  Jason had also seen the lustful way Ed had looked at Dana.  Didn’t Jane see it?
    Dana took Jason’s arm.  He wasn’t even aware of it.  Nor was he aware of the way Jane’s temper was flaring.  Did he like flaunting this woman in front of her?  It was like he was saying, “Look, Jane.  See how much better I can do?”  At that moment she hated Jason Collins.
    “I hear that there might be a merger in the works for Talbot Toys in the next year.  Any tips on stock trading, Collins?”
    “Why Mr. Simpson.  You know that’s illegal.  And here I had hopes that you were an ethical lawyer.  Guess it’s just an oxymoron.”
    “I’m very ethical.  I also look out for myself . . . and my interests.”  Ed tightened his hold on Jane’s shoulder, knowing the look he had seen in Jason’s eyes when he looked at Jane
    Jason noticed the movement.  “So, I guess congratulations are in order,” he said looking at Jane’s engagement ring.  “When’s the big day?”
    “Well, we haven’t actually set the date yet.  We’re just enjoying the feeling of being engaged, right darling?” Ed rubbed Jane’s arm and looked at her. 
    She tried to smile.  “Yes.”  Where was that waitress with more water?
    “Well, it’s nice to know you have somebody, Janie,” Jason said more gently that he wanted to.  His eyes met Jane’s and probed.  With a frown on his face, Ed mouth “Janie?” to himself.
    “Yes, I don’t know what I’d do without Jason,” Dana said rubbing her body against Jason’s.
    “It’s wonderful when you find the right one,” Ed said absently, pulling Jane closer to him. 
    Jane noticed something in Jason’s eyes as they both looked at each other—a deep sadness, that flashed for a split second and then was gone.  She broke the stare by looking into her lap.  “Ed, I have a headache.  I’d like to go now.”  Jane had to get out fast.  Her nerves were shattered.  She didn’t want to make a scene.  She stood ready to bolt.
    “Of course, darling.  I’ve got medicine at home.”  Jason bit his tongue in fury over the idea of Jane going to Ed’s home or worse the idea that they could be sharing a home.  Meanwhile, Ed looked around for the waiter to get his check.
    “Simpson, just help her.  I’ve got the check.”
    “Very nice of you, Collins.”  He took Jane’s arm but didn’t leave before turning to smile at Dana.  “Miss Pleshette,” he said with a smile.  Jason thought he would be sick.
                  Outside the restaurant, Jane took a couple of deep breaths before turning to Ed.  “I’m sorry, Ed.  I hope I didn’t ruin your evening.  I just needed some fresh air.”
                  “No worries.  I really didn’t like the way he was looking at you anyway.”
                  The two began to walk at a leisurely pace.  Curious Jane asked, “How did he look at me?”
                  “Like he could eat you with a fork and a spoon.”
                  Jane wasn’t sure of her reaction.  Did she feel irritation, fear, or excitement?  None of these emotions were acceptable to her way of thinking.  Besides, Jason just didn’t feel that way about her, anymore, maybe ever.  “I’m sure you’re wrong.”
                  “Darling, I know when a man is hungry.  Although I don’t know why he would be, with that beautiful specimen hanging all over him.”
    Clearly out of self-confidence at this point, eyes beginning to swell with tears, Jane said, “Well, why don’t you just go back inside and fight Jason for her like the cavemen you two are!”  Jane walked briskly away from Ed.
    Not able to conceal his laughter, Ed caught up with Jane and wrapped an arm around her waist.