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6
     
     
    “Could you tell me,” J.D Senior began, using the reasonable patronizing tone, Jordan hated. “Why you feel compelled to go against everything you know to be right? This engagement to Payton Hollister, why her? Couldn’t you have chosen someone much more suitable?”
    “ Payton is suitable.” Jordan responded.
    J.D Senior’s eyes narrowed as he studied his son carefully. “What were you thinking pro posing? Have you completely taken leave of your senses?”
    “As I recall , it was you who suggested that I settle down, find a wife. What difference does it make who I chose, as long as I abide by your demands?”
    “That may be, but I never told you to pick a woman that isn’t even in our social class, she’s a reporter for crying out loud.”
    “Who has degrees in business and journalism?”
    His father made a dismissive grunt. “Makes no difference , she should not be made a part of this family.”
    “I’m guessing you have someone else in mind, am I right?”
    “As a matter of fact I do,” his father admitted. “I had a long conversation with Walter Ashmore and he’s agreed that if you were to marry his daughter, this would solve your problem.”
    Jordan rolled his eyes. Not this shit again, when is he ever going to give up?”
    “What makes you think I’d even consider making his daughter my wife?”
    “A union with Allison, would be beneficial,” his father explained. “Ashmore Gourmet foods, is about to embark on the biggest merger in its company’s history. Walter Ashmore has made it clear that if the two of you were to become engaged, this firm would handle the merger between his company and Barton Foods. If you were to marry his daughter, that’s a quarter of a million dollars added to this firms revenue.”
    Jordan stared at his father in disbelief , as anger began to build inside him. “So this is about money, you don’t give a damn about whether or not I’m happy or not, you just want to add to the firm’s financial portfolio.”
    “ Listen to reason son, not only would this union be beneficial monetarily, it would provide the right connections, This firm needs to stay on top. Payton Hollister is the daughter of a retired cop and a school teacher, her background has no benefit to you socially or professionally.”
    “I can’t believe we’re having this conversation, I knew you were rigid when it came to certain things but never in a million years would I have guessed you were a snob.”
    “I’m merely looking out for your best interests,” his father reasoned.
    “I know you don’t expect me to believe that , do you? And for the record Payton Hollister has more class in her little finger, then Allison Ashmore has in her whole body. She speaks several languages, has interviewed presidents and dignitaries and not only that, she’s won a Pulitzer. Her father is a highly decorated Gulf War veteran, whether Payton has the right pedigree or not is none of your concern. I fully intend to make her my wife with or without your approval.”
    His father’s expression remained passive, his opinion unchanged. “If that’s your decision you leave me no choice, you’re disinherited and you’re fired . You have a week to clear out your office.”
    Jordan stared at his father for a few moments then he turned and walked out.
     
    ******************
     
    When Payton unlocked the door of Jordan’s apartment and stepped inside, she was greeted with the soft glow of candlelight and the scent of fresh flowers. Placing her purse and keys down on the table, she made her way through the living room, calling out to him as she walked. She found him standing out on the enclosed terrace speaking with the man from the restaurant that often delivered his meals, when his cook had the night off, once the man had departed, he walked over and greeted her.
    “Hey, how was your day? ” He asked wrapping his arms around her kissing her.
    “It was long. What’s all this?” Payton asked gesturing