Read Online Unlikely Venture (The Venture Series Book 1) by Kristen Luciani - Free Book Online Page B

navigate the IPO process. It was a great piece to plant into the partner presentation . Maybe it’ll help make more of a case for my work, especially since the numbers are so flat without that signed contract. She shook her head. Nope, not thinking about that tonight. But I definitely need to investigate that comfortable clothes comment. Do I even have anything that can be classified as comfortable? Other than my ripped running tights?
    Thanks! What’s the plan for tomorrow? She kept the response light, not wanting to appear too high-maintenance by asking specifics about his outfit requirements. Does he really expect me to wear sneakers on the first date?
    I’ll pick you up around two. Trust me, it’ll be better than what you’re thinking right now.
    Jessica bit her lower lip. Shit. She wasn’t the outdoorsy type. Faking it would only cause problems later. Ignoring her uncertainties, she shot off a reply. Can’t wait. I’m sure it’ll be great!
    How bad can it be? Just please let it not be rock climbing! A fear of heights coupled with a French manicure would make that an action-packed adventure she’d much rather someone else enjoy on her behalf.
    “Um, hello, earth to Jessica, are you with us or what?” Jessica looked up, startled. “Or are you with… someone else?”
    “James,” Lisa confirmed as Jessica felt a blush color her cheeks.
    “Just making plans for tomorrow. He told me to wear comfortable clothes, what’s that all about?” She ignored Rochelle’s curious look. That’s right, I’m not giving you the satisfaction of a single detail, you witch!
    Lisa wrinkled her nose. “So no hooker heels for your first date? Are you okay with that?” She reached out to pat Jessica’s arm with mock concern.
    Jessica laughed, pushing her hand away. “I can be flexible. Sneakers aren’t so bad.”
    “Big date planned?” Rochelle lifted a perfectly threaded eyebrow as she sipped her champagne.
    “Yes.” Jessica had no intention of divulging more information than necessary. “I met someone and we’re going out tomorrow.”
    “How awesome is that ?” Rochelle’s voice dripped with insincerity. “Only too bad you have to fly home soon. Do you think you might see him again?”
    Annoyed at Rochelle’s nosiness, Jessica clenched her teeth. “Well, I guess we’ll have to see how things go tomorrow, won’t we?”
    “Well, we can certainly hope for the best. How unfortunate that it had to happen while you’re away on business. I know it’s been so long since that whole mess with Drew.” Rochelle refilled her glass, a haughty smile plastered on her face.
    Jessica curled her toes, her fingers itching to fling one of her stiletto heels at Rochelle’s face. “What’s the matter, Rochelle? Still sour grapes over the fact that you couldn’t land him after we broke up? As I recall, that was the second time you tried and failed, isn’t that right?” Take that, you trashy whore!
    “Okay ladies! Enough please!” Lisa’s voice rose in desperation. “Can’t we just pretend to get along tonight?”
    “Of course, Lisa, we’re all adults here, aren’t we?” The edge disappeared from Rochelle’s voice, at least for the moment. “Jessica, it’s wonderful you met someone, but just be careful. You know guys. If he calls, it’s probably because he knows you’ll be gone in a couple of days and wants to take advantage of the situation, no strings attached.”
    “While I appreciate your concern, I’m not an idiot. I can take care of myself. And if memory serves, I don’t recall asking for any advice.” Jessica sat back with a tight smile on her face.
    “I’m just trying to look out for you, Jessie.” Rochelle pouted. “I don’t understand why you’re so suspicious of my motives.”
    Oh no reason at all, Rochelle. Why would I be suspicious, especially after you tried to steal my fiancé out from under my nose? How could I possibly mistrust your agenda?
    Jessica grabbed a bottle of water from