Jayson noticed and set the papers down. “Let’s take a ten-minute breather.”
“Good idea.” She stood and stretched. Determined to take a mental break, she made an excuse and headed to the ladies’ room. When she returned, Jayson was nowhere in sight.
What? Maybe he thought it would be best if she finished on her own? Merry felt an immediate sense of loss. Well, so be it, she thought. Feeling let down, she started again on her own.
Being alone left her feeling bereft. This was the first time it’d been just the two of them. These ninety minutes had given her insight into Jayson that she wasn’t able to see through their online exchanges. He’d been patient, especially when she’d flubbed up the numbers, transposing them. Thankfully, he’d caught her mistake. Thoughtful, too. She hadn’t said out loud that her neck ached and that she needed a break. He saw her rub her hand along her neck and recognized that she could use a few minutes to relax her shoulders.
With him gone, she glanced around the deserted office and noticed all the other areas were darkened. The office had never appeared so stark or bare. It hadn’t felt like that when Jayson was by her side.
She took note of the time, and the thought went through her head that he needed to be home before nine so they could chat online, though she supposed he could use his work computer. There was plenty of time still. The irony didn’t escape her. Jayson assumed she’d canceled or delayed her Friday-night date, not realizing, of course, that her date was with him.
Yes, against her better judgment, she’d decided to chat again with Jay that evening.
She’d regretted giving in at the time. Now she wasn’t so sure, seeing this new side of him. He was much more her online Jay tonight than Jayson, her rude and sometimes dictatorial boss. The problem was how she would go about letting him know who she was. But not yet. It was still too early to make that decision, but if she believed they had a chance, she would.
This relationship was important to her. When she’d admitted that she’d missed their time together online, it hadn’t been an exaggeration. She’d felt as if she’d been at loose ends all week, and if she was being honest, she’d been miserable. Even Patrick had noticed, which was what had prompted him to reach out to Jay without her approval.
Merry had found Patrick sitting at the computer, intently typing away. When he noticed her watching, the guilty look on his face was all she needed to guess what he’d been doing, and she’d confronted him. Her brother was as readable as a dinner menu.
Poor Patrick’s face instantly went bright red, knowing he’d been caught. He’d immediately blurted out that he’d been chatting online with Jay.
“Why would you do that?” Merry demanded.
“You were so sad, and I knew Jay was sad, too, and so I had to tell him.” Her brother lowered his head and Merry couldn’t argue—her brother was right.
At first Merry had been upset. Not with Patrick but with Jay. When she’d realized he was still online, her fingers had pounded on the computer keys, unable to hide her irritation. Her anger hadn’t lasted long, though. She’d missed him. So much.
And he’d missed her.
Then he’d typed that one word. The one that convinced her to continue.
Please.
She couldn’t refuse him, couldn’t refuse herself. Later that night, her emotions were mixed and she wavered back and forth, wondering if she’d done the right thing.
Footsteps echoed in the office and Merry stopped typing, alert now because she wasn’t alone. A shadowy figure appeared. It didn’t take her long to recognize that it was Jayson.
He’d come back.
He held two take-out drinks in his hand. Before she could say anything, he set one on her desk.
“I didn’t know where you were,” she blurted, and immediately regretted it.
He blinked, seeming surprised that she’d care. “Guess I should have left a note.”
“It was creepy here by myself.” That sounded better than admitting how keenly she’d felt his absence.
“Sorry, Mary, that was thoughtless of me. I assumed I’d be back in only a few minutes, but the line at Starbucks was long. Apparently, something’s going on downtown tonight. I heard several people mention something having to do with Figgy Pudding, whatever that means.”
He smiled and her heart melted. “Oh…it’s a singing choral contest that benefits the local food banks,” she blurted, the words spilling out of her.
“That explains it,” he said, and then, looking down at the drink in his hand, he added, “I got you an eggnog latte. I thought you might need something to tide you over.”
She blinked, surprised by his thoughtfulness, and she was grateful. “Ah…thanks.”
“I hope you like eggnog.”
“I do.” It was her favorite for this time of year.
He grinned and all she could do was stare. Jayson Bright’s entire face was transformed by a simple smile. His eyes brightened as their gazes connected. Fearing she was about to reveal herself, Merry made a determined effort to look away, although she immediately felt a sense of loss.
“You like Christmas, don’t you?” he asked.
Merry sipped her latte and nodded. “It’s my favorite time of year.”
From their weeks of lengthy conversations, she knew Jayson’s childhood had been less than nurturing. He’d told her about his parents’ unhappy marriages and his life in East Coast boarding schools. There had been almost a complete lack of tenderness in his life.
What Jayson saw in her, the online Merry, what attracted him to her, she suspected, went back to his childhood. Whether he recognized it or not, Jayson was drawn to the warmth and love of family.
Her family.
That sense of belonging was the real draw. In terminating their relationship, claiming there was no hope for them, she’d taken that warmth and acceptance away from him. The stories she’d shared with him about their holiday traditions—decorating the tree, baking cookies, sending out Christmas cards—had been like a drug to someone who had never known what it meant to be part of a family. Little wonder he was willing to let go of his pride and plead to continue their online relationship.
Jayson cleared his throat, distracting her from her thoughts.
“You’re staring at me.”
“I am. Sorry,” she murmured, embarrassed, looking away. Because she felt she needed to offer an excuse, she said, “It’s just that I didn’t expect the latte. Do I owe you anything?”
“No, Mary, I’m the one who owes you. You don’t need to reimburse me.”
She took the Starbucks cup and set it aside. “I started again and got quite a bit done,” she said, eager to get back to inputting the data.
Jayson grabbed the chair and scooted next to her desk, papers in one hand and coffee in the other.
—
It was close to eight by the time they finished.
“I couldn’t have done it without you, Mary.”
“I was happy to help,” she said, and she meant it.
“I’m thankful for your time,” he said, moving back his chair.
She reached for her coat and purse and noticed he remained seated, reading over the last of the report.
“You’re staying?” she asked, wondering how late he would remain at the office. As for herself, she needed to hurry if she was going to catch the eight-fifteen bus, otherwise she’d be late to chat with…him.
“No, I need to get home myself.” He stood and headed toward his office. “Give me a minute and I’ll walk you out.”
“Oh.” That was another surprise. Jayson Bright was turning into a man she barely recognized. The two Jays were merging together in her mind and she wasn’t sure that was a good thing. It would make keeping her true identity a secret that much more complicated.
Once he’d locked up the office, they walked to the elevator and stepped inside.
“Have you ever noticed,” he asked, suppressing a smile, “how the reflection shows in the smooth surface
of the elevator door?”
What an odd question. “Not really.”
His mouth quirked again.
“What makes you ask?” As soon as she phrased the question, Merry knew the answer.
“If you’re going to make faces at me behind my back, Mary, you might want to make certain that your reflection doesn’t show on the doors.”
She gasped and was convinced her face turned the color of an overripe tomato. Once she found her voice, she said, “It’s a wonder you didn’t fire me.”
“The thought never entered my mind.”
“I’m sorry; that wasn’t professional of me.”
“No worries. I was more amused than upset.”
The elevator landed on the ground floor and they walked together toward the exit.
“Your Friday-night date—was he upset about you needing to cancel?”
“No, it worked out fine. We aren’t getting together until later anyway,” she assured him. What he didn’t know was that her hot date was a conversation…later, at nine, with him.
He checked his watch. “What time is he picking you up?”
She didn’t dare explain that there would be no “picking her up” for her date, who unknowingly stood by her side. “Nine.”
She turned and rushed toward the bus terminal, walking at a clipped pace along the brightly lit avenue. The trees were strung with white lights, giving a festive air to the cold night. Merry was surprised when Jayson’s steps caught up to hers.
“You don’t have a car?” he asked.
“I ride the bus.”
“In that case, I’ll drive you.”
He glanced at his watch. Merry knew with the Seattle traffic being what it was, he’d never return in time. If he did, he’d be late for their date. That he would offer to drive her home, knowing he would be late, was completely unexpected.
She wanted to talk to Jay; she’d been looking forward to it all day. “I appreciate the offer, but it’s not necessary.”
“I don’t want you to be late for your date.”
“I won’t be. The bus is the most efficient way for me to get home.”
He hesitated and she secretly wanted to tease him for being so willing to give up his “date” with her. Of course, he didn’t know that.
“If you’re sure.”
“I’m sure.”
He walked her to the bus stop, and they went their separate ways.
—
Merry was home, sitting in front of her computer, at nine. Jay didn’t leave her waiting long.
Merry? Is this you, or is this Patrick again?
She didn’t understand why he would ask her that, then remembered that she hadn’t agreed to go online.
It’s me, Merry.
If you could see me, you’d see a big smile. I wasn’t sure you’d be online.
The truth is I couldn’t stay away.
I couldn’t, either. I want you to know I’ve given a lot of thought to what you said to me. You’re right. I’m arrogant and annoying, but I’m trying not to be. I’m willing to change my ways if that means I can have a chance with you.
Merry had already seen the evidence of that, although she couldn’t let Jayson know.
This evening I went out of my way to be nice to one of the office staff.
A woman? Should I be jealous?
Maybe.
Merry grinned. Little did he realize she was the employee he was referring to.
You better explain.
I asked her to stay late and she did.
I hope you paid her double time.
She’s a temp, but yes, I’ll be sure she’s well compensated. Later I offered to drive her home.
This was the perfect opportunity to find out what Jayson thought of her. If they ever did meet, he might not take kindly to the underhanded method she’d used, but so be it. The temptation was too hard to resist.
Is she young? Single?
Yes, to both.
Hmm, interesting. Is she pretty?
Pretty enough.
Pretty enough! Merry was insulted. Fingers at the ready, she was about to tell him exactly what she thought of his assessment of her. Thankfully, she stopped before she gave herself away.
You’re taking a long time to respond. You’re jealous, aren’t you?
A little. She decided to humor him.
No need. You’re the one who fills my head. Besides, she’s involved with someone else. Had a date she was hurrying home to meet. It’s you, Merry. You. You’re the one who has talons in my heart.
That sounds painful.
It is. If only you knew. Tell me you’re willing to meet me. Let’s put this silliness behind us.
She was tempted. Really tempted. Not yet.
If not now, when? He sounded frustrated with her.
I’m not sure. It’ll happen when the time is right.
She could almost feel his frustration. All right, I’ll prove I can be as patient as the next man. I’m grateful you’re willing to talk to me again.
A full two hours passed with them exchanging messages. The time flew by, and when she was finished, a warm, happy feeling came over her. She didn’t know how she was ever going to find the strength to let go of Jay.
This chatting isn’t enough for me any longer. I want to get to know the flesh-and-blood Merry. Please reconsider.
His “please” got to her every time. It told Merry she was as important to him as he was to her, and that denying him would be almost impossible.
Okay, I give in. We’ll meet before this year ends.
Promise?
Promise.
Merry didn’t know what would happen when he learned who she was. One thing she did know was that she couldn’t bear it if he broke her heart, because he already held it in the palm of his hand.
CHAPTER TEN
Jayson
Jayson worked the entire weekend, finishing the report that he would present on Tuesday to the Boeing executives. He’d been analyzing the data for weeks but was only now able to draw a conclusion. He was pleased with the results and convinced his insights would save the company money without requiring layoffs. It felt good that he could offer a viable solution to their current needs.
The only breaks he took over the entire weekend had been to chat with Merry. Spending time with her, even if it was online, was like taking a summer stroll. It refreshed and invigorated him. After they talked, he felt ready to tackle the project again with renewed energy and insight. He didn’t know what it was about her that inspired him. All he knew was how he felt. He wasn’t a man driven by feelings. He’d never been comfortable with them. As a youth, he’d learned to suppress and hide his emotions. Merry had the ability to draw them out unlike anyone he’d ever met. The guard he kept between himself and others had disappeared behind the anonymity of the computer screen.
By Monday morning, he was both exhausted and exhilarated. He’d met his deadline and was eager to have his uncle read his conclusion. As he entered the building, his gaze instinctively went toward the data-entry department.
Mary had been instrumental in helping him with the final phase of the report. He saw that she was at her desk and decided to stop by and thank her once again. Merry had questioned him about Mary on one of their weekend chats, and he’d made light of his interest in her. He had strong, strange feelings for Merry, but she seemed to be secretive and wary, which raised questions in his mind.
What surprised Jayson was that he found himself attracted to Mary, too. Over the weekend, he’d found his thoughts drifting toward her and he had to forcibly turn his mind away from her. He wasn’t sure what it was about her.
When Mary noticed him, she looked up and automatically smiled. Over the last few weeks he’d caught her frowning at him any number of times. Seeing her welcoming smile now caught him off guard. His steps slowed as he worried that he was flirting with temptation.
“Good morning,” Mary said, her eyes bright and welcoming.
“Morning.”
“Did you finish the report?”
He didn’t remember mentioning it to her, but clearly he must have. “I did, and I wouldn’t have been able to if you hadn’t stayed on Friday.”
“I was happy to do it.”
“I wanted to be sure you knew how much I appreciated your help.”
“You’re welcome, Mr. Bright.”
He grinned. “No need to be formal. My name is Jayson.”
Her eyes twinkled when she asked, “Is that allowed in the employee handbook?”
Chuckling, he said, “It’s all right to make an exception now and again.”
“Good to know.”
As he started toward his office, he noticed a couple people giving him odd looks, and he wondered if it had anything to do with the smile on his face.
Mary amused him. He found it interesting how one night of working late together could change their testy relationship. He wasn’t sure what exactly had brought about the transition; whatever it was, it pleased him.
—
First on his agenda Wednesday morning was the meeting with his uncle, who praised him for getting the report finished ahead of schedule. Jayson accepted the praise. He’d been thankful for the opportunity to prove himself, and his uncle had given him the tools and confidence he’d needed.
If Matterson Consulting garnered more business from the Boeing Company, Jayson was certain that his uncle Matthew would hand the company reins over to him when he retired. That was what Jayson wanted, what he strived to accomplish, and this report went a long way toward making that desire a possibility.
As he entered his office, Jayson’s cellphone rang. He reached inside his pocket and saw that it was Cooper.
“Hey,” Jayson greeted, happy to connect with his best friend. “What’s up?”
“Not much. Thinking about Christmas.”
As far as Jayson was concerned, there wasn’t much to think about. Christmas was like any other day to him. By choice, he ignored the holiday, seeing that it brought up nothing but unwelcome memories.
“You got plans for Christmas with that new girl of yours?” Cooper asked. He’d been on Jayson from the first about Merry, digging for information. For the most part, Jayson had been able to sidestep his questions.