Yet, knowing when to step back was a wisdom Jemma had learned well.
Jemma, with her extensive experience, quickly concealed her irritation, her expression morphing into a conciliatory smile.
âAlright, Alec, youâre right.
I was out of line.
Weâll leave now.
â
Turning to Jarrod, Jemma said, âMr.
Schultz, pleaseâ¦â
She was about to exit, but Jarrodâs imposing figure blocked the path.
His voice low, Jarrod said, âNo rush.
Go up first.
â
Trapped and still supporting Nicole, Jemma had no way out.
Since Jarrod had spoken, she saw no need to argue further.
However, Alecâs earlier insult still stung, prompting her to retort, âBut Alec seems upset.
Perhaps we should go down first.
Itâs not that urgent.
Cherry can wait another minute.
â
Jarrod raised an eyebrow.
âDonât mind him.
â
Reassured by Jarrodâs response, Jemma allowed herself a small, satisfied smile.
She cast a defiant glance at Alec, her smile turning provocative.
Her earlier irritation was dissipated a bit.
Alec, catching Jemmaâs look, clenched his jaw in frustration.
This woman was clearly taunting him! He fumed silently.
Despite his anger, Alec had no choice but to follow them into the elevator.
Once the elevator doors closed, the space, now shared with two tall men, felt exceptionally tight, especially with Nicole unsteady on her feet, swaying slightly.
Nicoleâs cheeks were tinged with an alluring flush as she murmured weakly, âJemma.
I feel.
So.
.
Uncomfortable.
.
Help me.
.
â
At her words, the tension in the elevator shifted noticeably.
Jarrod maintained his composure, his expression changing only slightly.
Alecâs face, however, turned a deep shade of red, then nearly purple with embarrassment.
As a man well-acquainted with the allure of women, he found Nicoleâs breathy tone almost unbearable.
If not for Jarrodâs presence, Alecâs reaction might have been stronger.
He cursed inwardly, acknowledging begrudgingly that Nicole was really attractive.
Nicoleâs allure was more captivating than any Alec had encountered before, natural and effortless, a genuine sensuality that seemed to emanate from her very core, embodying the quintessence of feminine charm in every gesture and tone.
Jarrod noted Alecâs discomfort, maintaining a stoic, unaffected demeanor.
As the elevator reached their floor, the doors slid open to reveal a Lineup of young, handsome men standing at attention.
âGood evening, distinguished guests,â they greeted warmly.
The club had curated a selection of male escorts who combined youthful vigor with rugged appeal, their well-defined physiques appealing to a broad range of tastes.
Known for their charm and ability to entertain, the clubâs male escorts offered a welcome reprieve to those seeking to unwind.
However, Alecâs expression soured with disapproval.
His strong sense of traditional masculinity made it challenging for him to accept men engaged in such work, despite his outward proclamations of job equality.
He scoffed.
âWhat nonsense, acting so effeminateâ¦â