Chapter 5 PROPOSAL

Jasmine's POV

The plastic seats in the police station lobby were uncomfortable. Cole had suggested that I wait with him while he called his secretary to take his grandmother home. After that, we would go for coffee to discuss more about business.

I clutched my luggage awkwardly as I waited for Cole's secretary to arrive. In some minute's time, his female secretary walked in haste. Cole had instructed her to take his grandmother back home.

He turned to me with a small smile and a raised brow. "Are you ready?"

I nodded my head in agreement and rose to my feet. Cole's eyes darted towards the direction of my luggage. His brows furrowed in curiosity. I chuckled nervously, he needed an explanation.

"Oh, this? I was going to lodge in a hotel for a while before I saw your grandmother in distress." I said uneasily. Cole nodded his head in agreement; satisfied by my answer, he did not bother to push further.

"Right. I apologize for the inconvenience once again." Cole said. I waved it off and replied. "I am glad I was able to help."

"We can stop by at a little restaurant to discuss business. Right after that, I will drop you at the hotel?" Cole said in a questioning tone. I flashed him a grateful smile and said "Thank you, I would like the sound of that."

Cole and I walked out of the station. He directed me to a sleek black convertible that was parked at the end of the station's driveway.

He helped me load my bags into the trunk and opened the front door for me like a true gentleman. "Thank you," I muttered as I got into the car.

Cole hopped into the driver's seat. He started the car and zoomed off into the busy streets. The drive to the restaurant was short and silent. I had nothing to say and neither did Cole. The vibe was a little tense, and I felt kind of uneasy.

We eventually got to the restaurant. He pulled the car to a stop. I hopped out of the car, and Cole did too.

We stepped into the cute little diner, where the delightful aroma of brewed coffee and baked goodies hit us. We found a nice little spot by the window, and Cole didn't hesitate to start talking shop.

Jasmine, I have to admit, your skills totally blow me away, "I think you would be a great fit for our company's cybersecurity team."

I wasn't really used to getting compliments, so it felt kinda weird. "Thank you, Cole. I am honoured that you think so."

Cole leaned in, his expression serious. "Although there might be a slight inconvenience for you. I don't know if you might buy the idea." Cole trailed off.

My brows furrowed in curiosity, I gestured for him to go ahead.

"Well, the thing is, Jasmine. Our company is based in H-city, and I need someone with your expertise to help us deal with a recent security breach. Would you be willing to travel with me to H-city and work with our team?"

I hesitated, unsure of what to say. Travelling to a new city with a stranger was not exactly the time for such. Although it seemed like a perfect way to get away from Ethan and occupy myself with a lot of work. I could not help but feel intrigued by the opportunity.

"Why were you in South City, anyway?" I asked, stalling for time.

Cole smiled. "I was here for a business meeting. We were looking to expand our operations, and I was meeting with some potential investors."

I nodded, processing the information. "I see. And what makes you think I am the right person for the job?" I needed to know if I was dealing with the right person; after all, I was slowly putting all of this into consideration.

Cole leaned back in his chair, a confident smile spreading across his face. "Let us just say I have a good instinct about these things. And I think you will find that our company is a great place to work."

It was hard not to be charmed by Cole's confidence. And the more he talked about the job, the more interested I became.

After so much consideration, I released a heavy sigh and said "Okay, I will think about it," I said finally, pulling out my phone. "Can I get your contact information?"

Cole smiled, handing me his business card. "Here you go. I will be waiting to hear from you. I plan to leave this weekend so I need to get your response before then. To make preparations."

I took the card and paused to gaze at the piece of paper. It had Cole's name and the company's name, including his number, imprinted on it.

"I will not waste your time. You will get your response soonest." I said.

Cole and I spent the remaining time drinking our coffees in silence. After that, we left the restaurant, and I directed Cole to the hotel where I would be staying.

He helped me carry my bags to my room, which was really nice of him.

When he left, I rested against the door, and no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't wipe the smile off my face. Was I considering travelling to H-city with a stranger? It seemed crazy, but at the same time, it felt right.

I thought about the job offer. It was a great opportunity, but it was also a big risk. Could I trust Cole?

The question lingered in my mind. But I'd already spent the past few years stuck in a loveless marriage. I needed to take risks.

With that thought, I pulled out my phone and sent Cole a text.

"I am interested in the job offer." I wrote, my heart racing. "I will travel with you to H-city."

I hit send, feeling a thrill run through me. Less than a minute later, my phone beeped. Cole had returned my text. "Good, I will keep in contact with you."