Chapter 6 The Rules The light from above cast a shadow across Jackson's handsome face as he fixed his gaze on her . " What's your name ? " he asked . Elaine's face turned slightly pale , and she answered slowly , each word measured . " Elaine . " " Have you thought this through ? It's not too late to change your mind . " Jackson gave her one final chance . Uncomfortable , Elaine shifted slightly . Jackson's expression darkened as he growled , " Don't move ! " Startled , Elaine froze , her eyes locked on him . Her body became stiff and tense . She was so nervous that her breath came in short , uneven bursts , causing her to speak a little more quickly than usual . " I've thought about it carefully . I wouldn't be here if I hadn't . " She had been mulling it over for days before making the decision . On her way here , she had almost reconsidered for a moment , but … At that thought , a self - deprecating smile tugged at the corner of her 0.00 % 10 G 1101 Chapter 6 The Rules 288 iVouchers mouth , and her eyes dimmed with a touch of sadness . Jackson noticed the shift in her expression , sensing the faint sorrow on her face . His heart stirred slightly . " How much do you need ? " Elaine blinked in confusion . " What ? " Jackson furrowed his brow , his tone cool . " How much money do you need ? " She stared at him , slightly stunned . His jawline was sharp and perfectly defined , and for a moment , she lost herself in the details of his face before quickly snapping out of it . With a soft smile , she responded , " You can decide . " Jackson raised an eyebrow , a hint of irritation in his expression . She smiled again , her voice soft . " Mr. Mason isn't the type to be stingy , so I'm not worried you'll give me too little . " She had once thought that when she turned twenty , she would give the most precious thing she had to Cordell , the man she had loved for so long . Jackson studied her for a moment , then leaned down to kiss her . ***** Afterward , Jackson pulled away and got up to head into the bathroom . Elaine grabbed the blanket and pulled it around her , her gaze vacant as she stared at the ceiling . The crystal chandelier above cast a bright light , making her face look as pale as paper . The sound of running water from the bathroom was loud in the quiet room . A short while later , Jackson emerged from the bathroom and entered the walk - in closet . When he came back out , he was dressed , sharp and impeccably put together . The deep blue shirt fit him perfectly , and his trousers highlighted his long , lean legs . His features were sharp , almost sculpted , and his dark eyes were especially striking under the light . Elaine had gathered herself by then . Apart from her slightly red eyes , she seemed composed . Jackson pulled out a pen and paper , writing a check and placing it on the nightstand . His eyes were void of emotion . " Leave your contact information when you leave . I'll call you if I need anything . " He picked up his custom - made watch from the table and strapped it on , then walked toward the door . After taking a few steps , he stopped , not 54 42 % 10 turning around . His voice was flat and distant . " You should have done your homework before coming . Do you know what the rules are ? " She answered softly , " I know . " Jackson's women were only meant to last for three months . During that time , if he needed anything , they had to be available whenever he called . They couldn't visit him at his company or cause any trouble . After three months , they were to part ways without further contact .