Sparks

He glanced at the couple again. Dawn watched amazed as a cool red color washed over his face.

“Are you okay?”

“I’m fine. Thank you.”

“You look a little flushed. If you need them to turn down the temperature I’m sure they would—”

His gaze stopped her. “I’m fine.” He glanced at the couple again.

She swallowed her tea. “They have a cute baby.”

His eyes met hers. “Yes,” he said in a neutral tone. “Do you like children?”

She clumsily set her teacup down. “Yes.”

“Planning on having any?”

“Not any time soon.”

“You can’t wait forever,” he said with an ironic twist to his words. “You wouldn’t want to suddenly get desperate.”

“No.”

He leaned back and watched her. “I’m sure that right now your career comes first. A husband and baby would get in the way.”

Dawn frowned, unnerved by the bitterness she detected in his voice. “I assure you, that if the right man comes along he wouldn’t be in my way and we’d raise the child together. Many couples do that.”

“Yes, but nowadays most women don’t need a husband, right? You can make your own money and rear your own kids. You just need the sperm and then you’re on your way. Men are disposable.”

She sipped her tea.

He stared at her for a moment until she squirmed in her seat. “No reply?” he said. “Aren’t you going to defend your sex?”

“Why reply to someone who has already made up his mind?”

He looked at her, surprised, then embarrassed. “You’re right. I apologize.” He folded his arms. “So, who else have you worked with?”

“David Schelling.”

“Who?”

“My dentist. His practice was failing until I helped him.”

“I see.”

“I also worked with the Tantland Pet Hotel. You can trust me to help you.”

“I want to bring The Medical Institute up to current standards. Introduce the latest technologies, and set it apart. I want it to be known for excellence.”

Dawn readied herself. This was the moment she had been waiting for. She was prepared. She moved her bread dish aside, and set her portfolio on the table and opened it. She handed Jordan a color brochure and business card. “With my help I can make that dream a reality. As a consultant, what I do first is to meet with you to discuss what you want done. During this initial meeting, I will evaluate and assess what you have currently, and what changes, and or modifications will need to be done, in order to achieve your intended goal.