Page 20 of The Jaded Notes

“Sorry, Jaxon. Today I have to remain an angel. Otherwise, Trent will be getting between us all night.”

“Maybe Jaxon wants that.” Trent stares in Jax’s direction.

“No. That’s not why I’m going out with you two tonight.” Jax strides forward. “Livianna, where’s your place?”

The February chill kicks up and snuffs out the fire that was growing in the atmosphere. I take the cue and lead the guys to my apartment. It’s within walking distance, so we meander through the streets of Paris to my home while discussing Jaxon’s company.

Jax owns the building where our classes are held. Okay, I admit I found out about the courses after I was trying to find out where Jax’s office was.

That’s also when I found out that getting up to his office without an appointment is impossible. The security level rivals that of the Pentagon.

I’ve never paid much attention to what Jax does, but Trentseems to have. He knows a ton about Jax, and to say I’m impressed would be an understatement.

Trent moves in front of Jax and me, walking backward. His animated expression lights up the dimming night sky.

“Livianna, has Jaxon ever talked to you about his mentorship program?”

I shake my head and glance at Jax. “Why would he?”

Jax turns his head away. “It’s just something I do to help those in need.”

“It’s a perfect fit for people like us.” Trent motions to Jax with a tip of his chin. “Tell us more about it. Then give us the inside scoop on how we get an invitation.”

Jax squares his shoulders and glances at me. “CVI has a mentorship program called The Vault.”

“Crowne Ventures International has a mentorship program?” I peer over at Jax. “Why call it The Vault?”

Trent answers before Jax can. “Because it’s an invitation-only, pro bono pipeline for underestimated talent. The focus areas are fashion, media production, wellness startups, some drug companies, and some tech stuff. But it’s the designer sector I’m interested in.”

Why haven’t you said anything to me, Jax? Why do you continually see me as a little girl who is just a thorn in your side?

I shrink, realizing Jax will never see me as worthy.

Jax’s facial features soften. “The mentorship was formed especially for those from marginalized backgrounds or war-torn regions.”

“Oh.” My chest warms. “That’s so…admirable of you.”

“Why do you sound surprised?” Jax’s defensive tone can’t be denied.

“I’m not surprised. It’s just…” I glance down. “Honestly, I feel like an entitled brat now.”

“Why?” Jax and Trent ask at the same time.

I suck in a breath and expose my truth. “My first thought was wondering why Jaxon wouldn’t tell me about it when heknows I want to run a fashion design house. I was offended and took it personally. Now I see his reason for not sharing it with me was because there are people who need his help a lot more than I do.”

“I never said I wouldn’t help you.” Jax stops mid-stride and looks me dead in the eyes. “In fact, I’ve always been interested in your business venture.”

“You have?” My insides tighten—not from fear, but from wanting this too much. “Then…will you help me with Livianna Grace Designs?”

Chapter Five

JAXON/JAX

Then

Bloody Velvet & Razor Blades

The more you want someone, the more carefully you try not to touch them.