Kisses From Jack (The Kisses 1.5)

Jack looked at the clock. 9:30 AM. It wasn't even that late, but for the CEO of a company, that might as well be sleeping in until sunset. He knew he'd be pulling some hours before dawn as soon as he started.

“Listen, guys, is everything okay? Did you land? Are you here?”

“Yeah, we're here and we'll be there soon.”

“Did you bring it?” Jack asked, a smile creeping across his face.

“Bring what?” Dean asked.

“Don't be coy. Did you bring the shirt?”

There was a pause. Jack hoped that he wouldn't have to trek into town to buy one if he didn't. “Yes, I brought it,” Dean said with an exasperated sigh.

The thought of his stoic and incredibly reserved bodyguard wearing that ridiculous Hawaiian shirt almost made Jack's headache go away. Almost. “Good. I'll see you when you get here.”

Jack hung up the phone and wandered out of the room. He nearly forgot why he wasn't sleeping in his own bed, but he remembered as soon as he got to the kitchen for breakfast. There was Brandy, looking unhappy as ever. Clearly she thought that Jack had slept too late as well.

“Hey there,” Jack said, sauntering up to her. He leaned into kiss her.

“Ugh, you still reek,” she said, pushing him away. A flash of anger washed over Jack, but he managed to keep it in check. “When are you going to shower?”

He moved away from her with a sigh and went to get a toaster pastry. They weren't usually on his menu, but this was vacation after all. “Right after breakfast,” Jack said.

“Well, after you smell better, I was thinking we might go into town. I was thinking that you might get me some of that island jewelry,” she said, her eyes sparkling a little bit. “The island is renowned for their diamond and tanzanite pieces.”

Jack froze. “Honey, you know that my party is today. I'll be preparing all day for it.”

Brandy sighed. “Oh, is that tonight? Well, we'll just have to make it quick.”

“I literally don't have any time to take you shopping today.” Jack sighed. He wanted her to have fun on this trip, too. “Can it wait until tomorrow?”

Brandy pouted. “Well... Don't you want me to look good at your little party tonight?”

Is she for real? Jack thought. He was sure he had already explained this to her. “Brandy, we've been over this. Tonight's party is for guys only. You're going to have to find something else to do tonight.”

Her mouth dropped a little bit. “I thought you were just fooling around.” Jack shook his head. “Fine,” she continued. “If you don't want me here, then I won't be here. Enjoy your little boy's party tonight.” She stomped out of the room.

Jack just stood there, eating his Pop Tart. She had been so different at the office, flirting and giggling. Even out at restaurants she shined. The few moments that they had managed to be alone that didn't involve sex at the office, had been high points in his days. They were always full of excited whispers and giddy anticipation. Now that they really were alone out here, the anticipation and excitement was gone.

Jack munched on the last piece of toaster pastry. He would have to find Brandy something sparkly tomorrow. When she had talked about the jewelry, her eyes had finally lit up like they did at the office. Maybe that would buy him some peace.

***

Krista's note: This scene is told from Izzy's pont of view in Sandcastle Kisses.

Jack came and sat down next to Owen at the bar of the Man Cave. The Man Cave was probably Jack's favorite part of the beach house. A tattered but extremely comfortable old couch sat in front of a big screened TV attached to every game console ever invented. There was an old pinball machine from Owen's college days and a bar along the wall that was Owen's pride and joy.

Everything for the party was coming together nicely. The DJ was setting up in the next room while the food and beverages arrived. Rachel was upstairs directing traffic and running the show and while Dean managed the security. Guests would be arriving any moment.

“Nice shirt, Dean,” a man with jet black hair and an easy smile said, coming down the stairs. Dean scowled at him, but let him pass. Jack hoped everyone commented on Dean's obnoxious shirt.

“Hey, Noah,” Jack greeted the new

comer. “Glad you could make it.”

“Wouldn't miss it for the world,” Noah replied. “I still get to work the bar tonight, right?”

“Why do you think he invited you?” Owen quipped. “No one makes the drinks like you.”