Page 49 of The Jaded Notes

“No. Her fate was sealed long before that happened.”

My shoulders roll forward. “Still talking about fate and destiny?”

“I believe in it, Livianna.” He rests back in his chair and crosses his ankle over his other knee. “You told me once you were studying the concept and thought there was something to it.”

“True.” I stand and pace along the side of the table. “If Lehlani Rose Designs is destined to be successful, maybe there’s a way I could do it without confronting them.”

“Don’t fool yourself. Deal with the issue and let your brand explode like it’s meant to.”

Does he think I can have my dreams come true? My stomach swirls and my chest heats.

I stop and connect my gaze to his. “Do you really believe my company can be that big?”

“I’d stake my name on it.”

“That’s a pretty bold statement.”

“Maybe, but I mean it.” He rises to my level. “We don’t need to discuss what you must do around that issue anymore. But something else needs to be addressed before you tell me if you’re going to stay in the program.”

My mind goes blank. “What would that be?”

“I told you when you approached me about wanting my help on that New Year’s Eve we spent together that I wouldn’t assist you if you were using drugs. I’m back in Paris for a while and will be leading the mentors through the rest of the year. If you want to remain in the program, you will stop doing drugs.”

“I’m not using anything.”

He growls. “Livianna, if you lie to me one more time, I won’t allow you to stay in the program.”

“Why do you think I’m lying?”

His glare burns my way. “I have ways of knowing.”

“Are you saying you’re spying on me?” I fold my arms over my chest.

“No, I’m saying I know the signs.”

I bite down on my lip.

If I lie… Fuck!

“So what, Jax? Doing a little blow here and there isn’t a big deal.”

“It is if you’re working with me. I explained to you before if you don’t respect yourself or me enough to treasure your body, you’ll never treat your brand like it deserves. I won’t waste my time or energy on someone who values drugs over their dreams.”

“It’s not like that.”

“Then how is it?”

“I like to let loose every once in a while.”

He nods slowly, then tilts his head. “I know, but there are other ways to lose control.”

“Such as?”

A flick of fire flashes in his hooded gaze. “Why don’t you tell me?”

The air in the room shifts, and all of a sudden I don’t think we’re talking about my business or drugs anymore.

I scan his face, searching for clarity. “I’m not sure I’m understanding.”