18. Jaxon

Jaxon rappedhis knuckles against the solid wood of Lou"s apartment door, a rhythmic pattern they"d shared since childhood. Beside him, Colton shifted his weight, impatience etched into the lines of his tall frame. The door swung open, revealing Lou with her hair swept into a ponytail, eyes alight with the thrill of impending retail escapades. She was practically bouncing on her heels.

"I"m all ready! Lou reporting for duty." Her voice carried the cadence of excitement, her grin infectious. She caught sight of them both and let out a delighted shriek. "I can"t believe you"re already taking Delcy on a vacation, and it"s two whole weeks! We"ll need to get her a ton of things."

Jaxon returned her smile with one of his own, albeit tinged with the pressure of making everything perfect for Delcy.

"That"s why we need your expertise," he said.

She turned to Jaxon eagerly. "Have you booked her a beauty treatment yet?"

Jaxon shook his head, knowing he should have thought of that.

Lou gave an exaggerated eye roll. "Seriously? How could you forget? Every woman needs a spa day before a trip." She admonished him with a wagging finger. "You should get her the whole package, from a full-body treatment to a hairdo, along with all the cosmetics she"ll need. I have the perfect spot in mind. Let me handle the reservation for you this instant."

Jaxon nodded in agreement, trusting his sister"s expertise in pampering and feminine luxuries. The idea of spoiling Delcy with a relaxing spa experience before their getaway pleased him.

With plans cementing, they descended to Jaxon"s car and soon they were on their way to Sterling Galleria.

As Jaxon navigated through traffic, his thoughts were with Delcy—their Delcy—for she had woven herself into their lives with quiet determination and an allure that neither he nor Colton could resist. The car hummed beneath him as he considered their plan: two weeks to win her over completely, to pave the way for something lasting.

Sterling Galleria rose before them like a modern-day palace of commerce and luxury. They entered its grand halls, bathed in the soft glow of ambient lighting that made marble floors gleam and storefronts beckon.

Lou led the charge, her steps brisk and purposeful as they entered Bella Donna, a boutique known for its exclusive designs and impeccable taste under the Sterling Enterprises" Fashion House. The air was perfumed with a subtle blend of lavender and vanilla, and soft music floated through the elegant space.

"Trust me, this place has everything Delcy could dream of," Lou said, her eyes sparkling with the thrill of the hunt.

Jaxon nodded, his gaze sweeping across the boutique"s lavish interior. Colton trailed behind.

A poised woman approached them, her name tag declaring her as Bianca, the store manager.

"Louise, darling! So good to see you again. I"ve got everything ready. The models are on standby."

Lou beamed at Bianca. "Well done."

Bianca clapped her hands together as she greeted Colton and Jaxon.

"Mr. Sterlings, welcome. How wonderful it is to have you grace our store."

Jaxon grinned and Colton nodded.

"Now then, shall we?" Bianca said and then led them to a secluded area of the boutique where three models stood poised, their resemblance to Delcy in stature and build uncanny.

"This is Hannah, Mia, and Zoe," Bianca introduced. "They"ll be trying on selections for your approval."

Lou circled them with pursed lips before nodding in satisfaction.

"Ladies, you"re the perfect stand-ins. Let"s get to work!" She clapped her hands twice, spurring the models into action.

As the models were at the back getting changed into outfits, Colton and Jaxon settled onto the couch, Jaxon folding one leg over the other while Colton leaned his elbow against the armrest. Lou walked back and forth, anticipation for their private fashion show shimmering within her. The world of haute couture always sent a thrill through her veins.

Hannah emerged in a pink dress with a full tulle skirt that cinched at the waist before flaring out in gossamer layers. She walked up and down the short platform before them. The dress reminded Jaxon of the ornate pastries displayed in patisseries.

Lou tilted her head, considering. "It"s sweet, but too princess-y."

Hannah retreated and, in her wake, taking the platform was Mia in a sleek black sheath dress with an asymmetrical neckline. Severe and modern, it didn"t suit Jaxon"s image of Delcy"s soft femininity. Colton grunted in agreement with Jaxon"s silent assessment.

Several more options came and went, each missing the mark in some way. Then came a navy wrap dress in a silky fabric that hugged every curve. The hem hit just above the knee, showing a tempting glimpse of thigh.

Jaxon straightened, eyes locked on the swirl of the fabric over the model"s hips. "That one. It"s perfect."

Lou beamed. "I had a feeling you"d love it." She made a note on her tablet.

Hannah stepped forward in a cocktail dress with a hem that flirted with her mid-thigh. It was bold in color—a vibrant shade of cerulean blue that made her skin glow. Jaxon watched as she paired it with stilettos that added an edge to her already statuesque figure.

"That"s stunning," he said. He could picture Delcy in it—her slender legs accentuated, her walk confident and alluring.

Colton remained silent until Zoe emerged in an emerald gown that flowed around her like water. The dress hugged every curve as if it were a second skin, transforming her into an embodiment of elegance.

"That one," Colton said firmly.

Lou clapped her hands excitedly as Mia twirled in a sundress splashed with vivid florals that seemed to dance with her movements.

"Oh! That"s perfect for daytime outings!"

The session continued in this manner—each model showcasing an array of styles from miniskirts to flowing gowns to bright patterns—all carefully scrutinized by Lou"s discerning eye.

As they approached the fortieth dress—a figure-hugging number that shimmered under the boutique lights—Jaxon caught Colton"s eye. They shared an unspoken agreement, both men captivated by visions of Delcy transforming these mere fabrics into statements of beauty.

Bianca cleared her throat delicately. "Shall we move on to lingerie?"

Jaxon nodded; his pulse quickened at the thought.

The models returned clad in delicate lace and silk creations that played a tantalizing game of reveal and conceal. Each piece whispered promises against skin—some daringly transparent while others teased with intricate patterns that hinted at what lay beneath.

Jaxon"s throat went dry at the sight of a pastel-pink lace teddy with a plunging neckline. The delicate scalloped trim did nothing to diminish its allure.

"Imagine our little minx Delcy in that," Lou teased.

Jaxon swallowed hard, the image seared into his mind.

Colton picked a black lace ensemble, its craftsmanship exquisite, appreciating how it managed to be both revealing and elegant.

Jaxon gravitated toward a white set adorned with tiny pearls—a stark contrast to Colton"s choice but no less enticing in its innocence laced with seduction.

The models continued their parade, and each selection brought forth elicited comments from Lou or silent nods from Jaxon and Colton—their thoughts drifting to how each item would contour to Delcy"s form.

Amidst whispers of silk and murmurs of approval, they wove together a tapestry of attire for Delcy—each piece chosen with care and an intimate knowledge of what might delight or enchant her.

They picked an array of lacy underthings, bralettes and bodysuits and teddies in lush fabrics. Lou insisted on including cozy pajama sets as well.

"A woman needs options," she declared.

Finally, the order was complete and delivery was to be made immediately. They emerged into the late afternoon sunlight. The outing had bolstered Jaxon"s anticipation of their impending trip. Soon, he and Colton would have Delcy all to themselves, able to lavish her with all she deserved.

Lou checked her phone, making a pleased sound.

"The spa reservation for Delcy is secured for tomorrow. The Sterling reputation can open any fully booked schedule," she said with a laugh. "Brothers, you better have your jet ready to go."

Jaxon nodded. Their elaborate courting plan was coming together. Jaxon could already envision Delcy relaxed and glowing after a day of pampering. He intended to keep that radiance on her face for the duration of their getaway.

Two weeks with her, just the three of them on a secluded tropical island, no outside distractions. It was the perfect opportunity to convince Delcy that what they shared went far beyond a contractual arrangement or fleeting attraction.

* * *

Jaxon leanedback in the plush chair, swirling the amber liquid in his glass as he surveyed the opulent dining room. The skyline of the city glimmered beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows of Colton"s penthouse. Lou"s laughter, warm and rich, punctuated the air as she waved her fork for emphasis. "I swear, it"s like hunting for a diamond in a sea of cubic zirconia. Talent is abundant, but that raw spark? It"s elusive."

Landon nodded, slicing into his steak with precision. "But you can"t rush art, Lou. These things take time."

Jaxon caught Lou"s eye roll and suppressed a smile. "You"d think with all the submissions we received, at least one would align with your vision," he said.

Lou sighed, setting down her utensils with a clink against the fine china. "They"re good, don"t get me wrong, but I"m looking for more than just good. I want designs that scream passion, that make you feel something profound when you look at them."

Aston chimed in, his voice smooth like velvet. "Isn"t that a bit subjective, though? What screams to you might whisper to someone else."

"That"s the point," Lou said, her eyes alight with a fire that matched her words. "Fashion is personal. It should resonate."

Colton raised his glass in a silent toast to Lou"s determination before turning his attention to Landon and Aston. "Speaking of challenges, how"s our Singapore branch faring?"

Landon wiped his mouth with a napkin before responding. "Well, it has its own set of hurdles. Shipping has been an absolute nightmare lately."

Aston leaned forward, his fingers laced together on the table as he explained further. "The main issue is steel delivery delays. We"ve got the designs ready to go, state-of-the-art facilities, but without materials, we"re at a standstill."

Colton nodded thoughtfully. "Any projections on when this will resolve?"

"Give or take a few months," Aston said with cautious optimism. "It"s all about playing the waiting game now."

Jaxon watched the exchange with interest but kept his thoughts to himself. He knew well enough that in their line of work, patience wasn"t just a virtue—it was a necessity.

Aston swirled the remnants of his drink, his brow furrowed with curiosity. "So, Jaxon, Lou mentioned a two-week vacation out of the blue. Why the sudden urge to disappear?"

Jaxon stretched his legs beneath the table, a sly grin playing on his lips. "Sometimes you"ve got to break from routine, Aston. Besides, who says no to crystal-clear waters and sun-soaked beaches?"

Colton leaned back in his chair, interlocking his fingers behind his head. "The daily grind can wear you down. We need a breather every now and then."

Landon perked up at the mention of the destination. "The Caribbean? Sounds like paradise."

Aston"s gaze shifted between Jaxon and Colton. "You"re not thinking of dropping by Grandfather"s place, are you?" His voice held a mix of amusement and skepticism.

Jaxon shook his head firmly. "Nope, that two weeks is for us and us alone. The old fogy can see us at the usual time when he comes over during Christmas." His words sent a ripple of laughter around the table.

Landon leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "It"s not like Grandfather doesn"t know what"s going on in our lives anyway. He gets a full report from that private eye he has lurking around each of us."

Lou rolled her eyes playfully. "Can you believe that? Our loving but stern grandfather keeping tabs on us like we"re still twelve."

The conversation turned nostalgic as they reminisced about their childhood—a time filled with strict schedules and high expectations under Matthew Sterling"s watchful eye.

"I remember when he caught me trying to sneak out for a midnight swim," Lou recounted with a laugh. "I thought I was so clever until I turned around and there he was, standing like some statue in the dark."

Aston chimed in, a wry smile tugging at his lips as he shared his anecdote. "He had me up at dawn every day one summer learning how to sail. Said it would teach me discipline and respect for nature." He shook his head, his eyes glinting with feigned irritation and a hint of fondness for the memory.

"Discipline was Grandfather"s middle name," Landon added, chuckling at the shared memories.

Dinner and chatter continued until well past eleven when Jaxon made his way next door to his own towering abode. Upon entering his penthouse, he was greeted by the familiar sight of Johnson who stood with an impeccable posture that spoke volumes of his years of service.

"Evening, Mr. Sterling," Johnson said, taking Jaxon"s coat with practiced ease. "I trust the dinner went well?"

"It was wonderful," he said, walking past Johnson toward the grand staircase.

Johnson followed a few steps behind. "I have taken the liberty of organizing everything for your upcoming vacation. The private plane is ready at your disposal, and the staff are already on-site at Isla Esmeralda."

Jaxon paused on the first step and turned slightly to acknowledge Johnson"s report. "And the manor?"

"Ah, yes. The arrangements at Villa Serena are complete, sir. They await your arrival."

A small nod was all Jaxon gave in return before he continued up the stairs to his private quarters.

After a refreshing shower that did wonders to wash away the remnants of the evening"s tension, Jaxon wrapped himself in a plush robe and walked over to his bedroom window. The city below buzzed with energy that seemed alien compared to the silence of his room.

He collapsed onto his bed, sinking into the pillows as thoughts of Delcy filled his mind—her smile that could rival any sunrise and her laughter that seemed to dance in tune with his heartbeat.

He reached for his phone on the nightstand and hesitated for a moment before dialing her number. The usual texts they exchanged now felt too impersonal. He craved to hear her voice.

"Hello?" Delcy answered after two rings.

"Hey," he said. "How"s your day been?"

A small pause. "It"s been… tiring."

"Is that so?" Jaxon asked. "Then I hope everything will be better for you tomorrow after a relaxing spa?"

"Spa?" Delcy asked.

He smiled at her response before diving into logistics. "Yes, there"s a spa day booked for you tomorrow morning. Someone will be at your place to pick you up."

"A spa day?" Delcy"s delight was palpable even through the phone.

"Just thought you"d enjoy some pampering before our trip," he said.

"I see," she said. "Thank you."

"No worries," he replied.

"We fly out this Friday." He could almost see her nodding along as she mentally prepared herself for their getaway. "I"ve arranged for a driver to take you to the airport."

Delcy sighed softly on the other end of the line. "Okay."

They talked for a few more minutes about trivial things until Delcy ended the call. Jaxon stared at his phone screen for a long moment before setting it aside and lying back on his bed once more.

The next few days would be grueling, long hours piled upon longer hours, as both he and Colton pushed themselves and their staff to wrap up outstanding business matters so they could afford this brief respite from their demanding lives.

But it would be worth it. Every second spent working toward those uninterrupted days with Delcy was invaluable.

Jaxon closed his eyes but sleep eluded him as anticipation for what lay ahead filled him with an energy that made rest seem like an afterthought.