Chapter 2


The Phoenix executives were going over the details of the gala.

"Everything is set," the Baroness purred. "This is going to be an evening to remember."

"I would hope so," replied Lady Jaye, giving the Baroness a guarded look. "We have a lot riding on this. We are introducing ourselves to the world and hopefully picking up future clients, as well. We can't afford to foul anything up!"

"Of course," the Baroness said, "we have our own guards set up as security, thanks to Major Blood and his training. Plus, as you know, we have several, ahem, babysitters coming as well from the American military."

"GI Joe," Jaye murmured, looking thoughtful. "Yes, we'll have to find a way to keep them occupied. We can't have them interfering, not with all the leaders we will have present."

Lady Jaye looked at the Baroness. "Major Blood with security, you and I mingling with the guests, Zartan…" she frowned.

"Zartan," the Baroness said with contempt, "will work on covert ops. Knowing how good he is at judging character, we will have him mingling with guests as well as checking on security, but in disguise so that he is not associated with us. Kind of our go between, you could say."

Jaye nodded. "That sounds like a role he will play well. As for the presentation…"

"It is taken care of. The silent auction, for the children's hospital, will also run smoothly. You worry too much. That is why you leave these details to me," she said, her accent heavy with irritation.

"Of course," Jaye murmured. "I suppose I am nervous and want us to make a good impression," she said in way of an apology. She inwardly winced. Working with this diva was seriously causing a migraine. While her uncle may have strong feelings for the woman, she personally could only take her in small stages. It was good that their paths did not cross too often. Often, Jaye found herself holding her anger or irritation in check with some caustic comment the Baroness would make.

She managed to escape to her office with some excuse or another. She was sure the feeling was mutual between herself and the Baroness. It was good that the Baroness was not in charge of the silent auction tonight. She would have to discretely remind her uncle to keep his date in check. Although his business was separate from Phoenix, he still had a good stake in the organization, and would not want tonight to be a failure.

Zartan was waiting for her. She sighed as she literally flopped down in her chair and looked across the room at him. "Is it just me? I seriously cannot stand her!"

Zartan chuckled. "I thought you were the one with the 'breeding' and let nothing ruffle your feathers, my lady."

Jaye rolled her eyes. "She'd try the patience of an angel! If I had to listen to any more….I mean, don't get me wrong, she's a great organizer and has done really well with this event, but seriously…" she sighed.

Zartan moved behind Lady Jaye and started massaging her shoulders. "Mmmm….that feels great," she sighed. "Too bad I couldn't fit in a massage before tomorrow night."

"Well, then, just relax and enjoy this now….I've learned a few things in my travels," he said softly, his voice close to her ear. She closed her eyes and just enjoyed the sensation. She had no idea what was going on between the two of them. They had a mutual respect for one another and their skills as agents. She liked that he let her see a glimpse of his true self, that he trusted her that much. In return, she often confided in him about things she especially could not talk to her uncle about! Things like her slowly returning memory. The fact that even if she regained it, she probably would not leave Phoenix until the company was a success. She had a big investment in it already and wanted to see the company grow and prosper. Even if she wanted to, she could not leave it now.