Chapter 3
Jace went on, "My family dynamic is very simple. Both my parents are retired teachers who keep to themselves."
He summed up his entire existence in a few clean sentences.
It was a refreshing contrast to Tristan's constant bragging and beating around the bush.
"Olivia filled me in on you as well," I replied smoothly. "I am a standard office worker from a middle class family.
"And I literally just ended a three year relationship yesterday."
Jace nodded. "I know. Olivia mentioned it was over housing demands. The guy's family wanted your parents to give up their condo."
I was surprised he knew the exact details, but I was not offended.
It showed he had actually done his homework and was not just wasting my time.
"Exactly," I said.
"Then let's talk about what I am looking for," Jace said.
He leaned forward slightly. "I am not looking to hire a maid. I want a partner who has her own life and her own career.
"I know I physically cannot be there most of the time. But I want to provide absolute support and security.
"If we were to get married, I have four conditions."
My muscles tensed.
I knew a guy on paper this perfect would have some insane catch.
I braced myself for a list of demanding rules. I was fully prepared to grab my purse and walk out.
I took a slow sip of my coffee. "Let's hear them."
Jace held up one finger. "First. Due to the nature of my job, I cannot be reached at all times.
"But I promise that before every takeoff and after every landing, I will check in with you.
"My phone's location sharing will be permanently on for you. I will also keep a photo of you on my clipboard in the cockpit.
"If I fail to do any of this, I will voluntarily ground myself for six months and take the financial hit."
I blinked.
Was this a condition? He was practically handing me a masterclass in providing security.
He held up a second finger. "Second. Since I am gone so often, you will inevitably end up managing the household.
"But that absolutely does not mean you are my servant.
"When I am home, no matter how jet lagged I am, I cook, I do the dishes, and I clean the house.
"You are not allowed to lift a finger. That is my responsibility to make up for my absence.
"If I ever ask you to fetch me a beer or do my laundry, it counts as a violation. I will forfeit my entire monthly allowance to you."
I was totally floored.
Ignoring my shock, Jace raised a third finger. "Third. Regarding our families. You never have to worry about my parents interfering in our lives.
"But if they ever say anything that makes you uncomfortable, you do not have to tolerate it. You tell me, and I handle it.
"My method of handling it is very simple. I will instantly rebook my next vacation, fly you to a resort overseas, and we won't visit them for six months.
"I will never ask you to swallow your pride or compromise your comfort just to keep the peace."
He paused, and his tone dropped into something incredibly sincere. "Your feelings will always come first."
It felt like something heavy had just slammed into my chest.
The memory of Tristan and his mother sneering at me flashed through my mind.
They had called me ungrateful.
Meanwhile, the man sitting across from me was offering to put my feelings above everything else.
The contrast was staggering. My eyes actually started to burn.
Jace held up his fourth and final finger. "Fourth, and most importantly, the finances. Your salary is yours. I do not want a dime of it, and I will never ask how you spend it.
"However, all my checking accounts, savings, and bonuses will be turned over to you. The PIN will be changed to your birthday.
"All household expenses come out of my accounts. If I need cash for anything, even a coffee at the airport, I have to run it by you. I only spend what you approve."
He lowered his hand and looked right at me. "Those are my four conditions. Are they acceptable to you?"
Soft jazz was playing in the background of the cafe.
Afternoon sunlight filtered through the window, highlighting the sharp angles of his jaw.
I stared into his earnest and steady eyes.
I was quiet for about three seconds. And then, I completely lost it.
A snort escaped me, followed by genuine and loud laughter.
These were not conditions.
This was an entirely one sided surrender treaty, and I was reaping all the benefits.
There was no way I was walking away from this.
Jace looked a little unsettled by my laughter. "Are you okay?"