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“Thanks,” he said, a slight furrow creasing his brow as he considered the document.
Time slipped by in a silent dance of productivity until Jaxon's mind wandered from business to a more personal agenda—his and Colton's upcoming date with Delcy. The thought of her sparked a familiar warmth within him, and he found himself seeking advice from an unlikely source.
“Mike,” he said, his tone casual as he leaned back in his chair. “You wouldn't happen to know a good restaurant? Somewhere elegant but not overbearing?”
Mike's eyebrows lifted in mild surprise before settling into a thoughtful expression.
“Are you looking for something that speaks volumes without shouting?”
“Exactly,” Jaxon affirmed. “I want it to be special but not intimidating.”
After a moment's consideration, Mike offered a few names.
“There's L'Amour Toujours. It has a fantastic view of the city skyline, but it can be a bit much.” He paused briefly before continuing. “Then there's Saffron and Sage. It’s cozy and has a rustic charm that might be too casual for what you're looking for.”
Jaxon listened attentively but shook his head slightly at each suggestion.
“And there's Auburn Retreat,” Mike added, watching Jaxon closely. “It strikes that balance you mentioned, luxurious enough with exquisite cuisine, yet it maintains an atmosphere that’s warm and welcoming.”
“Auburn Retreat,” Jaxon repeated softly, rolling the name on his tongue as if tasting it for compatibility with Delcy’s essence.
“Yes,” Mike confirmed. “It's well loved by many for its ambiance, a favorite among young women because it feels both opulent and intimate.”
Jaxon mulled over the recommendation. It resonated with him, the image of Delcy sitting across from him and Colton in such an environment sparked anticipation.
“Thank you, Mike,” he said with genuine gratitude coloring his voice.
“Would you like me to secure a reservation?” Mike asked tentatively.
“No need,” Jaxon said with a small smile playing on his lips. “I'll handle it myself.”
No need? Mike's face mirrored his bewilderment, eyes wide behind the glass of his spectacles.
“Are you sure?” His voice was tinged with disbelief. “I mean, I'm more than happy to—”
Jaxon cut him off with a dismissive wave of his hand.
“I've got it.” He was already reaching for his phone, thumb poised over the screen.
Mike lingered a moment longer, still grappling with the break in protocol. Jaxon Sterling booking a table himself? It was unheard of. Whether for high-stakes dinners with investors or intimate evenings with potential flings, the task always fell to Mike. But this was different.
With a small nod, Mike excused himself to resume his task, but not without casting a glance back at his boss. The image of Jaxon engrossed in securing a date, personal touch and all, etched itself into Mike's memory.
It was then Colton entered, Emma and three junior staff in tow with armfuls of files that bore the weight of decisions yet to be made. Jaxon swiveled in his chair to greet Colton, Delcy's chosen pen—a simple object that seemed so ordinary yet held significance—twirling between his fingers.
“Found a spot for our date,” he said as Colton pulled up a chair and Emma and the junior staff set down the files.
Colton raised an eyebrow, interest piqued. “Where?”
“Auburn Retreat,” Jaxon said with an ease that belied the undercurrent of excitement coursing through him.
“Great,” Colton said with approval before diving into the business at hand. “We need to review these contracts before Friday.”
Jaxon nodded but added, “I'll send Delcy a message this afternoon.”
At hearing the name Delcy, Emma and Mike exchanged looks from across the room—a silent conversation held in glances. The junior staff stared at each other, shock and surprise mingled on their faces as they absorbed the implications.
As soon as the junior staff returned to their workstation, the office started buzzing with an energy unlike any other day. Whispers passed from desk to desk like ripples in a pond, each one expanding and distorting as it traveled through the ranks.
