The Kane Cross (Cross 1)

20 - Jimmy

Danielle arranged an Uber to arrive for Ivy at the side entrance while he created a distraction in the front of the building. After a drive around town orchestrated to lose any tail, he arrived at the union offices. When a secretary ushered him into the conference room, he heard Ivy's laugh.

"My father always says that."

"It happens all the time."

"What happens?" he asked, amused.

She waved her hand in dismissal. "Nothing. We were just discussing the game last night."

"Baseball," Coyne said.

"The 2-3 loss?" Baxter looked from the men to Ivy.

Ivy smiled. "Yes."

He narrowed his eyes. "Did you watch?"

"Just some highlights."

He nodded. "Sorry. I'm late. I had an issue."

The younger guy snickered. "That's the rumor."

He stared ahead not acknowledging the comment. "Ms. Krasinski, are you ready?"

"Yes, Mr. Kane."

"I'm ready to discuss health insurance and other benefits. Please go ahead."

He listened while Ivy took notes. In the end, they had a productive meeting. Once they reached the elevator, he said, "It's after five, I can drop you at home."

She shook her head. "Eleanor is waiting for me. We drive to work together."

"Call her. Your car is safe in the garage."

"I'd rather go back and get my things and my car."

"Fine. If there are reporters, you're hiding."

"Seriously?"

He chuckled. "No, the windows are tinted."

Once they were both in the backseat, she said, "You aren't MacIntyre?"

"No, miss. MacIntyre will pick Mr. Kane up after his meeting tonight."

"You have more meetings."

She looked like she cared. "Drinks with Jimmy to bury the hatchet." She hadn't slid all the way over when he let her in the car before climbing in himself.

"Too bad the rumors aren't true. I don't have any dates."

Baxter felt that familiar nagging. "Hopefully, your identity remains a mystery."

"The mystery girl. Can you imagine if they discovered the truth?"

"They can't unless you tell someone."

She shook her head. "Dani knows something. What about your brother?"

"The one you made a scene dancing with?"

"Is laughing a scene? I thought you were more fun."

He stared at her as memories flashed through his mind. "I can be fun."

"Intensely fun."

He leaned over. It had been too long since he took in her scent. "I remember you liked it."

He watched her shiver. The power he had over her made him hard. The slanderous article was very wrong. If he were like Sinclair, he would put himself in a compromising position to prove he was in perfect working order. The problem was the only woman he wanted had her own rumors circulating.

She pushed on his shoulder. "You can't tell me I'm not good enough and then tease me like you want me."

He snatched her hand. "I always want you."