Chapter Nineteen Jaxson

H ow is it that it only takes ONE person to royally fuck things up for everyone? Not even two weeks after getting home, the Chef from Charcuterie Bar and Grill calls me to tell me that Eric is nowhere to be seen. And he wasn’t answering his phone either. As much as I thought I could put my faith in Eric to take this business seriously, I should have known better. Yeah, he’s the waiter I met in France who originally got me a job with the chef who taught me everything I know today, but that doesn’t mean he was capable of running his own restaurant.

Which left trying to figure out what the hell he did and how to fix everything. And now two months being back, I still don’t feel like I’m anywhere close to being ready to head back to Willowcreek to start filming. Not with all this shit hanging over my head. I’d already known about him changing the menu, not fulfilling invoices, and causing a mess of the paperwork and payroll. But I never truly expected to step into the accounts of the company to find large sums of money being shifted into international accounts, starting from just after the new year.

It started out small, only here and there. But the moment I left for Willowcreek, Eric got bold. He started to steal far more than I’d hoped and left me with a complete shit show that cost me more money than I really wanted to pay out. But there’s nothing I could have done about it, the fucking prick left the country back to France and hasn’t been heard from since.

And on top of all that, I’m trying to manage working with World of Foods. Preparing everything for when the show starts filming in the next two months.

I honestly don’t know if shit can get any more chaotic right now.

Glancing down at the invoices in my hands, I sigh. My head falls into my hands as I look back up at the computer screen, trying to account for everything. And trying to make sure people got paid.

“Some of these invoices date back months,” I say to Travis who's currently on speakerphone with me.

“Look, I can call our guy and talk to him about everything. He knows you’re good for it, Jaxson.” Since everything kicked off with Eric, Travis has let me vent to him more times than I can account for.

“I appreciate it, Travis. Things are slowly becoming steady again since I stepped in to fix everything, but it’s still a process.”

“I’m sure it is,” he replies. “You called your attorney about it all, didn’t you?”

Calling my attorney was the first thing I did when I realized what Eric had done. I didn’t want it to come to that path, but honestly, Eric didn’t leave me much room for anything else.

“Fuck yeah, I did. I’m working to see how I can get Eric out of our contract as soon as possible. I want to do a complete relaunch of the place and try to fix things with the customers.”

As much as Eric may not have cared about this place, I do. To me, failure isn’t an option. Regardless, if I was supposed to be a silent partner, my name is still attached to this place and therefore it will be a success. One way or another. I refuse to let it fail.

“Yeah,” Travis said with what almost sounded like pain in his voice. “Especially after what Phillip Turant left in New York Food Monthly. ”

I stop in my tracks. My eyes instantly close as I drop my pen and pinch the bridge of my nose in an attempt to calm my anger. “What are you talking about?”

“Oh… so you haven’t seen,” he says with hesitation. “Honestly, it’s probably for the best.”

“Travis… tell me, please.” I really don’t want to know, because deep down I know it’s going to be fucking horrible. But Phillip Turant is one of New York's most famous food critics. So if Phillip wasn’t happy, I need to know.

“You want me to read it—”

“Yes!” I exclaim, clearing my throat. “Sorry… Yes, I want you to read it.”

My anger escapes me for a split second as I correct myself and take a deep breath before Travis unleashes the chaos upon me.

“Okay… but don’t say I didn’t warn you,” he replies, silence falling over us for a moment. “Oh, here it is… So, he said the following. Nestled amidst the culinary vibrancy of New York City, Charcuterie Bar and Grill falls short of meeting the elevated standards expected of its locale. Having been recommended by an acquaintance due to its association with the esteemed chef, Jaxson Rivers, my anticipation was palpable. However, the reality proved to be quite the opposite of the gastronomic delight I had envisioned.

“The offerings at Charcuterie Bar and Grill were far from the definition of culinary excellence. Some dishes left much to be desired, questioning their classification as food. The ambiance, rather than exuding an air of sophistication synonymous with fine dining, bore a closer resemblance to that of a casual sports bar, despite its ability to be visually pleasing.

“While Jaxson Rivers’ culinary reputation precedes him, his affiliation with Charcuterie Bar and Grill leaves room for reconsideration. One would hope for an establishment bearing his name to reflect the finesse and culinary prowess he is renowned for. Consequently, I would urge a reevaluation of the restaurant’s current standing to ensure it aligns more closely with the expectations associated with such a distinguished chef.

“Unless, of course, Jaxson Rivers himself has begun to evaluate his position within the culinary world of exquisite dining experiences. ”

What the fuck!

I slam my fist upon my desk the moment Travis finishes reading the small review. The pens within their holder go toppling to the floor as everything shakes, and Travis goes quiet. I’m not mad at him. On the contrary, I’m glad he told me of the review. I don’t check those often, though I probably should, and the fact that Phillip calls me by name in the review only makes it worse.

“I’m going to have to play damage control.”

“Yeah,” Travis replies heavily. “That was posted in last month’s review that came out on the fifteenth.”

Which means that the critic obviously came to visit right before my situation with Eric disappearing. He always posted his most up-to-date review in the new monthly edition. My hatred for the man only grows further the more bullshit I find.

“Why am I only being shown this now?”

Silence fills the phone line as I hear Travis sigh, “Honestly… we’ve both been busy with business, Jaxson. And you haven’t exactly been in lately. I figured you had seen it since you were taking over things there. I’m sorry, man.”

“It’s alright, Travis,” I finally sigh, realizing just how late I’d stayed at the bar and grill. My time piled behind mounds of papers within the office. “I’m going to call it a night. There’s no way that I’m going to be able to fix anything in the state I’m in. It’s probably best to just pick it up tomorrow.”

“Well, if it helps… I may know someone that is qualified to run that place. I’m happy to send you their information.”

I never realized how close my friendship with Travis had grown over the years. We weren’t as close as Asher, Knox, and I, but we were close in our own way. My career was enhanced with his support within my businesses. If only Eric had been like Travis, maybe I wouldn’t have as many issues as I do.

“You know what,” I sigh, running my hand through my hair. “That would be great. I’ll take a look over what you send and reach out to them tomorrow.”

“No problem,” he replies. “Call me if you need me. ”

The moment the phone hangs up, I lean back in my chair, trying to figure out what steps to take next. With so many things to be done, which do I actually start with now?

By the time I close up, make it to my apartment and finally make it home, I can’t help but let out a sigh of exhaustion as I toss my phone on the bed, catching a glimpse of Madi’s name on the home screen. I’d been so busy over the past few weeks, I’d forgotten to text or call her back. The guilt fills me the moment I remember the promise I made to call her back last time we spoke, weeks ago. I’d completely intended to, but never got to it. Because once again, I let my work consume me.

Picking up my cell phone, my thumb hovering over the button, I attempt to call her, but before I can, my phone rings once more. Caitlin’s name crosses the screen, ruining the moment. It never fails. Every time I tried to push the woman out of my mind, she had a way of trying to come back, only further reminding me of why I can’t stand her.

Though, through the bullshit with Caitlin, Madison never leaves my mind. She isn’t like Caitlin at all. She’s fun, exciting, and laid back. Even though I’m busy, and trying to fix things here she isn’t freaking out on me, not that she should. We’re only friends after all.

Just thinking that statement sets my jaw on edge.

As my phone rings again, I contemplate tossing it out a window, assuming that it’s Caitlin again. The woman is a persistent pain in my ass. However, when I glance down I notice it’s Jessie, one of the guys I made friends with while going to culinary school. Our love for the big city was a factor that brought us together, and though over the years we weren’t able to hang out all the time due to his own big career choices and traveling the world, he always seemed to hit me up when he was home.

“Hey, man!” I call out with a smile as soon as I answer the phone. “Are you calling to tell me you’re finally in town again?”

“Shit…” he laughs. “What are you talking about finally? I was in town a while back but Travis said you were back home in some small ass town called Willowcreek.”

It always made me laugh how people talked about Willowcreek as if it was a town in the middle of nowhere with no sophistication at all. Just because it’s small, doesn’t mean the town doesn’t know how to throw down .

“Yeah, I had some personal business to attend to.”

“Sounds… fun.” He chuckles. “Though, I can think of a million other things that are probably more fun than your small hometown. Like, going out tonight for a few drinks and perhaps… a rendezvous to ease the mind.”

I knew exactly what he meant without him even saying it. Jessie was your typical bachelor, and he refused to settle down. Claiming that hell would have to freeze over before he gets “the old ball and chain” a phrase that he said often, because his dad said it to him. The man, always on him about getting married. “Drinks, huh?”

My mind drifts back to Madison once more before flicking over the week of hell I’ve had.

“Alright, where are we going?”

“Zero Bond,” he replies, making my eyes go wide. I hadn’t been there since I was with Caitlin, and though I still had a membership, I didn’t see the point in going anymore. The only reason I’d got a membership to the member’s only hot spot was because it was known to cater to the very elite, and she, of course, wanted to climb the social ladder.

“I don’t know, man…” I mutter, unsure of the choice. “Why that place?”

“Because we both have memberships there that we don’t use, and if I’m being honest… I’d rather not deal with the crazies tonight.”

Laughter escapes me as I think back to the last time we went out. How Jessie and Travis were being followed around by a few girls that acted like they’d never seen someone from high society before. Their eyes like money signs as they pretend to be the diamonds of the night having the attention of a few wealthy men.

Fucking gold diggers.

“Alright, give me thirty and I’ll meet you there.”

Thirty minutes later, my car arrives at Zero Bond. Pulling up outside the main entrance, the red-velvet ropes of the building give luxurious vibes while the dark tinted windows prevent people from prying inside. The entire club spans over two stories and twenty-thousand square feet. Designed for those with a more sophisticated background, who have proven themselves worthy of being there .

As soon as I step out, the line of people to the left of the building drags my attention. Regardless of if we’re not letting anyone in, it doesn’t stop the people from gathering in hopes to see someone famous or if possible—to find someone who will let them in.

“Oh my God! It’s Jaxson Rivers!” A high-pitched squeal echos. My heart drops as my stomach twists at the desperation in these women’s faces. It isn’t just me they do this with though, it’s anyone who enters. I can’t recall how many times I’ve seen it in the past.

“Mr. Rivers,” the security guard says with a nod of his head as he opens the main door allowing me entrance. Jessie had already texted me ten minutes ago to let me know he was here, and from the way his text read, he isn’t alone.

Zero Bond isn’t like other bars or clubs in New York. Its prestigious design not only caters to the members but also the artistic sophistication of its owner. Everything is modern with a slight elegant touch to it. Dark painted walls, minimalistic decor, velvet chairs with dark wood legs, sleek black leather booths with low lighting. And a massive horse-shoe shaped bar that expands out into the center of the main floor.

It takes me two seconds to spot Jessie, his dark shaggy black hair pulled back into a bun on the top of his head as his laughter echoes around the room. It never ceases to amaze me that no matter where this man goes, he attracts attention. Around him are the various faces of his usual crowd and more women than I care to deal with.

When his dark green eyes meet mine, his smile widens as he gestures for me to come over. His hand shoos away the majority of people that lingered at his table, apart from a few. As my feet carry me towards the large half-circular booth that he’s sitting in, the two girls and another guy I’ve never seen, quickly get up and leave the table.

“Jaxson! My man… you made it.”

He reaches out grabbing my hand as we shake. My body slides into the booth across from him as he gestures for a waitress to bring over drinks. He knows what I like, so I don’t even have to say a thing.

“Whiskey neat?” the waitress says, placing a crystal glass down in front of me and one in front of Jessie before walking away.

“You’ve already got a crowd,” I comment, watching Jessie laugh with a nod .

“What can I say… the ladies love me.”

Confident and cocky as always. “You can keep them.”

His brows raise slightly as he gives me a pointed look, taking a sip of his drink. “Are you trying to say that you haven’t been indulging in the beautiful women of New York since we last saw each other?”

“No,” I laugh my eyes going wide for a moment. “The last thing I need is to be entertained by any of the women in New York.”

Just as the words escape my lips, a curvy brunette in a tight blue sparkling dress and heels comes strutting over to the table with her blonde friend wearing lipstick so red, she easily stands out in a crowd. “Hey, guys… mind if we join you?”

Her flirtatious question may entice Jessie as she slides her hand over his shoulder trying to slip into his lap, but she doesn’t fool me. Her friend is trying desperately to grasp my attention as she tries to mimic what the brunette is doing. “Care to buy a girl a drink?”

“I’m good,” I reply flatly, moving my shoulder from her grip. “I’m sure there is some other guy in this place that will though.”

“Oh, don’t be like that,” she laughs, glancing towards her friend who gives her a look as if persuading her to go on. “I promise I’m a lot of fun… especially in the bedroom.”

Now she really has fucked up. Perhaps the old me, college day me, would have accepted the invitation. But I’m not the same person I was back then. The desperation in this woman’s voice causes me to internally cringe as I curl my lip back, lifting the glass to my lips for another sip.

“I said, no.”

After a moment, she seems to get the hint. Her feet move her towards her friend as I watch her whisper something into the girl’s ear before the two of them leave. It’s clear that Jessie was hoping to get laid by one or both of them by the way his eyes trail after them as they move towards the bar. But, I’m not.

“Now, why did you go and do that?” he asks, his eyes meeting mine once more but with a little more shock in them than I expect to see.

“What do you mean?”

“What do I mean?” he gasps, his smile widening as he gestures towards the two women who had been at our table. “They’re fucking hot, and the blonde was practically begging for your dick. ”

Well, she can keep begging because I’m not interested.

“Perhaps,” I sigh, shaking my head. “But I’m not looking to hook up with anyone. I came here to have drinks with you. One-night stands get boring after a while.”

“Holy shit!” he exclaims, slapping his hand on the table. “Is Jaxson Rivers ready to settle down?”

Was I ready? Is that why my mind seems to be scattered lately?

My mind drifts to Madi. The thought of frosting cupcakes with her in the bakery kitchen, a more appealing thought than just a meaningless one-night stand.

I shrug off his comment, letting my eyes wander around the bar, trying to ignore the laughter that falls off Jesse’s lips. Not saying that I am ready to settle down, but the idea of having another one-night stand just seems… uneventful.

Just as my gaze passes over the bar and towards the main entrance, I spot a familiar face and blonde curls I was hoping I wouldn’t have to see for a very long time.

Fuck… It’s Caitlin.

The last thing I want is to have to deal with her tonight. And the fact that I’ve been dodging every one of her calls means that if she spots me… she isn’t going to let that shit go.

“I’m going to have to cut this short,” I tell Jesse, his eyes meeting mine before gazing towards where Caitlin stands talking to a dark-haired beauty with golden brown skin.

“Oh shit… is that?”

“Yeah,” I reply, not letting him continue that conversation any further. “Call me tomorrow if you want. We can catch up, maybe grab food and you can tell me all about tonight’s conquest.”

Not that I actually care to hear about that, but the last thing I want to do is sound completely rude. He agrees as I slip from the booth. My body moves swiftly through the crowds of people as I keep my eyes trained on Caitlin. Watching as she moves about the room before finally ending up at the table where Jesse is sitting; their casual conversation amusing as his eyes meet mine briefly from across the room, as his hand gestures for me to go.

I’ll owe him for that .

Jesse didn’t know everything that happened between Caitlin and I, but he knew the gist and he agreed with me leaving her, saying basically what Asher himself told me. That I dodged a bullet.

As the cool evening air greets my skin, I close my eyes inhaling deeply before turning towards the valet who quickly runs for my car. As much as I love being in New York, I miss Willowcreek and my friends who are carrying on with their lives. We spent our youth together, and it didn’t hit me until recently that what I’ve been missing since we graduated, is them.

The bonds that we made. The memories that were created. It’s crazy to think that it took Mrs. Kendall dying to show me exactly what I need in my life.

Now the problem is, figuring out how to get it all back.

I can’t wait to get back so we can start filming. But most importantly, so I can see Madi.

I’m going to make it up to her one way or another. I just have to fix everything that Eric broke first…