The Billionaire's Librarian Harem

Chapter 4: Undressed

REBECCA

"Rebecca."

Jace's sharp voice knocks me out of my temporary mesmerism, and I jump back from the door. His icy eyes dart toward it, seriousness piercing through his typical playful demeanor.

"This way, please," he says, and it comes out more like a command than a simple direction. It's clear he won't be asking me again, so as much as I want to question him about the carved door once more, I know I won't be getting any answers.

What could possibly be behind there? Why was he so adamant about me not going in?

This library truly has its layers, much like its owner.

I watch Jace as he leads the way—the broadness of his shoulders fitted in his suit jacket, the confidence oozing out of him. He's a book that I'd judged quickly, with a cover I'd seen and been told not to bother reading many times before.

What lies beneath all that beauty? I feel a tug at my insides, longing to know.

Eventually, the tour comes to an end and Jace leads me to the gilded main entrance of the building.

"What did you think?" he asks.

"It's beautiful," I say, casting my eyes around the vaulted space. "It has a certain allure to it that I haven't gotten from any other libraries."

"An allure?"

I shrug. "Mysterious. So many stories in one place, waiting to be cracked open and unraveled."

And I'm not just talking about the books.

He catches my gaze, those blue eyes smoldering. "Good to know you feel that way. You really are perfect for this place."

I blush at his words, glancing somewhere else to break the intense eye contact.

Jace continues, "I'll contact you to let you know when I want you to start, so just wait on my text."

"Got it. Um, thank you, Jace, for giving me this opportunity."

"You earned it. You're impressive—your resume is impressive."

Is he trying to kill me? I beg to the universe that my cheeks are not as crimson as my hair.

I manage to muster out, "Thanks, again. I'll see you soon, then."

As I begin to leave, Jace calls out, "Rebecca, one more thing."

I spin on my heel to look at him. "Yes?"

"I am actually sorry for the smoothie incident earlier."

"Oh." I think back to the way he touched me. "It's fine—"

"—I wasn't quite finished yet," Jace interrupts. "I am sorry, but I'm also glad. You really do look better without that frumpy blazer."

My brows furrow, irritation bubbling inside. Jace just chuckles at me while I give him a tight-lipped smile and walk out.

***

After my interview, I quickly stop at home after to freshen up, as I'm meeting up with my best friend Mel at our favorite dive bar. Given today's events, a strong drink is exactly what I need. I toss on jeans and a blue top and make my way to the bar.

When I get inside, I immediately spot Mel at the counter. She's sipping on a mojito in a red halter and a white miniskirt that contrasts against her dark brown skin, her long legs crossed.

Mel laughs flirtily at something the bartender says, flipping her long box braids over her shoulder. A grin crosses my face as I walk over.

My best friend since college, Melanie Johnson is everything I've always wanted to be: extroverted and adventurous. We were roomies our freshman year, and the rest was history. I've always admired her daring nature and inherent leadership. As a prima ballerina and professional dance instructor, she also has an air of gracefulness to her that balances out her spirited optimism—countering my often clumsy and cynical qualities.