Chapter 51

Jake's POV

The call with Selena ended, and I straightened as Ms. Cassie joined me at the table. She flashed a sweet, flirtatious smile before settling into her seat and adjusting her short skirt.

"Hello, Mr. Marino," she began, her smile unwavering. "May I call you Jake?"

"I'd appreciate it if you addressed me as Mr. Marino. This is a business meeting," I clarified, establishing a professional boundary.

"You're late," she observed.

"I needed to ensure I was presentable for our meeting," I replied evenly.

She frowned playfully. "This isn't a date?"

"Whatever you say," I conceded, wanting to keep the focus on business. "Can we order now? I'm famished."

She signaled for a waiter and placed her order. I followed suit. Once we were alone again, she sighed contentedly, leaning back in her chair.

"Ready to discuss business?" I inquired.

"Not quite," she countered, suggesting we finish our meal first. She took a sip of the red wine the waiter had poured before leaving. The lingering effect of