"Aurora dear, how have you been? Is Jake treating you well?" Sadash asked warmly, her hand resting gently on mine.
"Yes, Sadash," I replied, smiling brightly. "I'm so happy I came to his house. And now that you're here, it feels complete." I slipped my arm around her shoulder, and together we walked to the living room… only to find Jake and his secretary deep in conversation.
But it wasn't just any conversation this girl, with her perfectly styled reddish-brown hair and those sharp grey eyes, was clearly drinking him in with every blink. My brows narrowed.
Something about her felt off. Too smooth. Too smiley. And a little too pretty in that tailored office outfit. She kept stealing glances at Jake like he was a damn piece of art. "Sir, please look there's a bug on your shirt," she said, brushing imaginary lint off his shoulder.
"Oh thanks, Sophie," Jake said casually.
So that's what she was staring at? A bug? I folded my arms and rolled my eyes. I was over here jealous of an insect. Embarrassing.
"Who's that?" Sadash leaned in and asked with curiosity. "She's nobody," I muttered. "Jake's secretary." I turned and muttered a little louder than I should've, "Why did he have to go hire a sexy secretary?"
Sadash burst out laughing. "I smell jealousy!"
"Shut up, Sadash. I'm not jealous," I said quickly, though my eyes were still locked on Sophie like lasers. "Sure. Let's get you something to drink… and don't forget to tell your son I'm here."
I smirked. "Jake, your mom's here!"
Jake walked over and embraced Sadash with a wide grin. "Hey Mama! How are you?"
"I'm good, son. It's nice to see you again," she replied, hugging him tightly.
Sophie stood up. "Hello, ma'am," she greeted politely. "Hi," Sadash responded, her voice neutral but warm.
I narrowed my eyes. Now she's acting like a sweet girl? Please. Jake turned to me. "Bae, are you okay?" Yeah. Totally fine."
But I wasn't. Sophie was working my nerves.
Jake leaned closer, voice low. "Are you jealous?"
"Huh? Me?" I scoffed. "Why would I be jealous of a common secretary who isn't even in my class? "Okay. If you say so," he shrugged with a teasing smirk. Sophie, we're done for the day. You can head home."
"Yes, sir. I'll take my leave now. "Thanks, Sophie," Jake said. "You're welcome, sir. Bye, ma'am."
"Hmmm," was all I could say.
"Gaius, please escort the nice lady out," I instructed sweetly with a fake smile. "Yes, ma'am," he replied.
As the door shut, Sadash turned to Jake. "Did you see your sweetheart here dripping with jealousy?"Jake chuckled. "Yeah, Mom. Maybe I should have Sophie come around more often."
"You better not!" I fired back instantly.
And why not?" Jake teased. "She's hardworking, smart, beautiful… sexy."
You shameless man!" Aurora scolded, swatting his shoulder. "Can't you control that mouth of yours in front of your mother?"
"I don't mind, Aurora," Sadash said, laughing.
"Sadasshh!" I stressed her name in warning.
Jake wrapped his arms around me. "Don't worry, I'm all yours. And for the record, you're way hotter than her."
I gasped. "Have you no shame? Your mom is sitting right here!" I know, and she loves us both," Jake said with a wink.I covered my face in embarrassment. This man will be the end of me!
Sadash stood up. "I'm going to get you some almond milk, sweetheart." Before she could hand it to me, Jake snatched the milk like a thief. Jake!" I screamed. "Give me my milk! This isn't funny!"
"You know how much I love almond milk!" I pouted. "Catch me if you can," he taunted, dashing away like a child. Hey! Jake!" I chased after him, laughing and breathless.
He handed the milk to a maid mid-run, grinning like a villain.
"I'm not gonna forgive you!" I shouted, chasing him through the hallway.
And just like that, the mansion echoed with our laughter.
Two grown adults in love. Two overgrown kids in a mansion.And a little jealousy… in heels.