rather work. I have a dedicated, committed team, and incredible sponsors in my corner as well.”
“Tell me more about the services The Aunt Penny Foundation provides.” Ashton reached for his glass and took a drink.
“We provide counselling, tutoring in all subject areas, and our job preparation classes offer coaching, help with résumés, and even mock interviews.”
Ashton raised an eyebrow. Haley could tell that he was impressed with the work they were doing at The Aunt Penny Foundation.
“That’s terrific, Haley. It sounds like you and your staff are doing fantastic work in the community.”
Touched by his words, she smiled in response. “Thanks, Ashton. We’re trying our best.”
“How many scholarships are awarded each year, and what criteria are used to select the recipients?”
“Every year, we receive dozens of scholarship applications, and incredible personal essays, but unfortunately we can only award five scholarships. We select recipients in financial need with high academic achievement, who have volunteered for a minimum of one year.”
“I’m thrilled Prescott George is partnering with The Aunt Penny Foundation this year. It’s the smartest thing we’ve ever done, and I look forward to learning more about you, and your brilliant students...”
Haley listened in awe as he spoke. She met with businessmen on a regular basis on behalf of the foundation, but she’d never met anyone like Ashton. Unlike the hedge fund manager she’d had brunch with yesterday, he didn’t drone on and on about his high-profile job, or his staggering wealth. Instead, he was gracious and kind. A part of her couldn’t help wondering if he’d be so nice to her if he knew her BFF, Becca, was engaged to his nemesis, Joshua DeLong. That afternoon, she’d bumped into the happy couple as they were leaving the foundation’s offices for lunch, and when Haley mentioned she was having dinner with Ashton that evening Joshua had scowled.
His words replayed in her mind, drowning out the BB King song playing on the stereo. Be careful. Don’t fall under Ashton’s spell. He’s not who you think he is.
From her talks with Becca, Haley knew that there was no love lost between the two men, and that Joshua was planning to challenge Ashton in the upcoming election for president of Prescott George. The corporate raider had claimed Ashton was trouble, a bad seed, but Haley took his admonitions with a grain of salt. The Rollinses were an old, respected Miami family, and she doubted Ashton had ever done anything sinister or illegal. Besides, he was throwing his support behind The Aunt Penny Foundation, and that was good enough for her.
“I’d love to hear more about your family’s company,” Haley said, tired of hearing herself talk. “How long has Rollins Aeronautics been in business, and who founded it?”
“My grandfather George and his partner, Prescott Owens, founded the company in 1938. Five years later, they became the first black millionaires in Florida. Rollins Aeronautics has stayed profitable through the generations. I run the day-to-day operations of the company, and when my father retires next year I’ll assume his duties as CEO.”
Ms. Edith reappeared, carrying plates topped with lamb chops, collard greens, shrimp-fried rice and okra. Haley’s mouth watered at the sight of the main course, but she waited until Ashton was finished eating his salad before tasting her entrée.
While they ate, they had a spirited discussion about the day’s news stories. Haley was intrigued by Ashton. Couldn’t help it. It wasn’t every day she met a man of his caliber, who shared her likes and interests. Having dinner with him was turning out to be the best part of her day.
Sipping her drink, she admired the tranquil surroundings. The views of the water were as spectacular as the food. Each course was flavorful and delicious, and by the time Ms. Edith brought out dessert Haley was so full she couldn’t move. The meal got an A for presentation and an A+ for taste, but what she enjoyed most was getting to know her handsome host better.
“What would I do if I wasn’t working at the foundation?” Repeating the question posed by Ashton seconds earlier, Haley gave it some serious thought. “If I wasn’t CEO of The Aunt Penny Foundation I’d probably work at a hardware store.”
Ashton frowned. “A hardware store? Why?”
“Because I love building things,” she explained, unable to hide her excitement. “I attend free workshops at Home Depot several times a month to improve my skills, and last week my instructor said my birdhouse was the best one in the class.”
“You strike me as the type who likes to bake, not swing a hammer.”
“Growing up, I was a tomboy. I rode dirt bikes, played video games and never left home without my beloved Firebirds baseball cap.”
“And now?”
“I still enjoy playing sports, but I’ve definitely embraced my feminine side.” She joked, “Being a woman is great! I can change my look whenever the mood strikes and my shoe collection would make Jimmy Choo jealous!”
“You’re a talented young woman who’s destined to do great things in the nonprofit sector, and at Home Depot.” Ashton smiled. “Your boyfriend must be very proud of you.”
For the second time in minutes, her mind ran to her ex-boyfriend, Federico Tevez. A year ago they’d been making plans for the future, but now their relationship was over, nothing but a distant memory. Their breakup had been painful, but for the best. He’d moved to Washington, DC, as planned—without her—and every time someone mentioned the nation’s capital, Haley wondered what could have been. On paper, they were a perfect match. He was a trained chef with big dreams and traditional values, but—
Stop dwelling on the past, Haley told herself, breaking free of her thoughts. He wasn’t the right man for you. You have to accept that and move on. He’s not coming back.
“I don’t have a boyfriend,” she said quietly. “I’m single.”
“So am I. It’s amazing how much we have in common.”
His husky voice was dreamy, and when their eyes met, her mind went blank. It felt good being with a suave, charming man who smelled divine and showered her with compliments, and Haley wanted to spend the rest of the night hanging out with him.
“Can I ask you something?”
Curious, Haley nodded her head. “Sure, Ashton, what is it?”
“Why are you single?”
“Why are you?” she quipped.
A mischievous expression covered his face. “I asked first.”
“I haven’t met the right person yet. You?”
“Yesterday, I would have said the same thing, but I’ve recently had a change of heart. I’m interested in a beautiful, charity CEO, but I don’t want to scare her off by revealing my true feelings.” Ashton winked. “I’m pacing myself. It’s only our first date.”
Their eyes lined up.
“I had fun tonight,” he said, “and I’d love to see you again.”
Haley moistened
