Chapter 6 The Rules
The light from above cast a shadow across Jackson’s handsome face as he fixed his gaze on her. “What’s your name?” he asked.
Elaine’s face turned slightly pale, and she answered slowly, each word measured. “Elaine.”
“Have you thought this through? It’s not too late to change your mind.” Jackson gave her one final chance.
Uncomfortable, Elaine shifted slightly. Jackson’s expression darkened as he growled, “Don’t move!”
Startled, Elaine froze, her eyes locked on him. Her body became stiff and tense.
She was so nervous that her breath came in short, uneven bursts, causing her to speak a little more quickly than usual. “I’ve thought about it carefully. I wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t.”
She had been mulling it over for days before making the decision.
On her way here, she had almost reconsidered for a moment, but…
At that thought, a self–deprecating smile tugged at the corner of her
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Chapter 6 The Rules
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mouth, and her eyes dimmed with a touch of sadness.
Jackson noticed the shift in her expression, sensing the faint sorrow on her face. His heart stirred slightly. “How much do you need?”
Elaine blinked in confusion. “What?”
Jackson furrowed his brow, his tone cool. “How much money do you need?”
She stared at him, slightly stunned. His jawline was sharp and perfectly defined, and for a moment, she lost herself in the details of his face before quickly snapping out of it. With a soft smile, she responded, “You can decide.”
Jackson raised an eyebrow, a hint of irritation in his expression.
She smiled again, her voice soft. “Mr. Mason isn’t the type to be stingy, so I’m not worried you’ll give me too little.”
She had once thought that when she turned twenty, she would give the most precious thing she had to Cordell, the man she had loved for so long.
Jackson studied her for a moment, then leaned down to kiss her.
*****
Afterward, Jackson pulled away and got up to head into the bathroom.
Elaine grabbed the blanket and pulled it around her, her gaze vacant as she stared at the ceiling. The crystal chandelier above cast a bright light, making her face look as pale as paper.
The sound of running water from the bathroom was loud in the quiet
room.
A short while later, Jackson emerged from the bathroom and entered the walk–in closet. When he came back out, he was dressed, sharp and impeccably put together.
The deep blue shirt fit him perfectly, and his trousers highlighted his long, lean legs. His features were sharp, almost sculpted, and his dark eyes were especially striking under the light.
Elaine had gathered herself by then. Apart from her slightly red eyes, she seemed composed.
Jackson pulled out a pen and paper, writing a check and placing it on the nightstand. His eyes were void of emotion.
“Leave your contact information when you leave. I’ll call you if I need anything.”
He picked up his custom–made watch from the table and strapped it on, then walked toward the door. After taking a few steps, he stopped, not
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turning around. His voice was flat and distant.
“You should have done your homework before coming. Do you know what the rules are?”
She answered softly, “I know.”
Jackson’s women were only meant to last for three months. During that time, if he needed anything, they had to be available whenever he called. They couldn’t visit him at his company or cause any trouble. After three months, they were to part ways without further contact.
