problem, sir. Is there anything else I can do for you?”
Jaxon looked at the stacks of papers piled neatly on his desk. He picked one up and handed it to her. “I need this copied and filed.”
She took the proffered papers. “I’ll get right on it.”
“No, it can wait until in the morning.”
“Are you sure?”
The shocked look on his assistant’s face almost made him chuckle. “Yes, call it a day. I will finish up here and close up the office.”
“This is a treat! Paul will be pleased.”
The excitement in Gloria Palmer’s voice warmed Jaxon’s heart. She worked so hard for him every day without complaint. If he could give her a short workday now and then, he was glad to do so. “Enjoy. I hope the two of you have a wonderful time.”
“Thank you, Mr. Hollister.”
Jaxon gave her a wink. “My pleasure.”
She turned to leave but did an about-face. “By the way, Dr. Rodden called. Unfortunately, she has a potential emergency and will not be available this evening.”
Jaxon nodded. “I see. Thank you, Mrs. Palmer. I will call her back later this evening.”
Gloria smiled. “Have a good afternoon. See you bright and early tomorrow,” she said and then all but ran out of the office with her stack of papers.
Jaxon sat back in his chair, piled his hands on top of the other, and laid his head into his cupped palms. He thought about the last-minute change of plans that transpired—Karma wasn’t available this evening. Her image toiled through his head. The way her long blonde hair fell over his chest. Her soft body fit his form perfectly. Firm, perky breasts filling his hands, the sweat of her body covering his while they made love. He inhaled a quick breath with the nagging but mild discomfort of an erection he sported as evidence of his imagery. “God, what am I going to do about her? I think of her when I’m not with her. I dread leaving her when I am.”
His phone rang. Absently, he answered. “Hello?” His best friend’s voice returned the greeting. “I’m sitting around thinking about life, love, happiness…” Jaxon chuckled. “That’s a stereotypical comment. Sometimes, lawyers do think about such things!” He leaned forward and scanned the file on top of his desk. “I can do that this evening for you. I have a few more details to add to that idea we had last week...I think we should talk it out before we present it to the third party…Great, see you then.”
Feeling tired and weary, he stood up and stretched. Looking at his watch, he noted the time. I have some time on my hands before dinner, might as well get in a few laps at the pool . He grabbed the papers he needed to take home, locked the desk drawers, and then made his way to the outer door, turning off the switches and buttons as he passed them. Leaving one small lamp on, he closed and locked the door.
Karma and the advancing relationship weighed on his heart. What did he really feel for her? Was it love? If so, why not talk to her or see for three weeks? “I should have kept in touch.” He hit the unlock button on his car. His best friend’s voice echoed in his head. Other than Karma, there was no one else he could discuss this delicate subject with. “This is a good night to talk with friends, about love, and other life changing interests.” Jaxson settled in his car. “This could be the beginning of the rest of our lives, Karma. I hope you want me.”
Chapter Six
Karma pulled her small pickup into the private drive leading to Dylan’s ranch. She looked at the clock on the dashboard. Precisely six thirty. One good thing she could say about herself, I am punctual . Grabbing the bags of food, her tote bag, and medical bag left her with one option to closing the door. She bumped her hip against the door, and on the first try, it shut. She looked around the pastures. Cattle grazed not too far from the main house. She walked up to the door and noticed it opened. Through the screen, she saw Dylan