“Sorry Mr. Ca … Jake … I didn’t see you there … Is there something I can do for you?” my voice is all over the place in my floundering panic. Heart thundering through my chest at a rate of knots as I dissolve into bumbling incompetence.

How did I not realize that my boss is hovering by my desk?

I’m supposed to be constantly aware and attentive to his every demand; this is such a faux pas on my part. I’m on my feet trying to plaster on my most friendly and efficient smile. I’m breathless. It’s the fright he gave me; I’m flustered and trying to recover quickly. Body trembling with the shock I gave myself noticing his presence.

“Emma …” He too seems at a loss for words, looking at me peculiarly. An uneasiness to his expression.

“I was coming to give you these … You look different!” His face is unreadable. I can’t even say what it is … I remember my hair’s down and flush because I’m not prepared; overwhelmingly vulnerable and I falter.

“It won’t happen again. I took a shower at lunch, because of the heat from earlier.” I need to reel myself in and claw back cool and controlled Emma. I’m babbling. I try a steadying breath to stop myself looking like a complete idiot.

“You look …” his green eyes are piercing through me and it’s sheer agony. All my little insecurities peeking up in one fell swoop.

“Untidy? It’s not how I would normally come to work.” I’m rambling, and I’m fidgeting like crazy, unable to just regain control.

Fuck, fuck, fuck.

This is not me!

Don’t fall to pieces, Emma, not now … Please. Get a grip and pull yourself together.

me; because I feel undressed, and I’m at a loss because I am out of my comfort zone, and he’s acting

going to say …” he clears his throat trailing off verbally and looks down at the papers, changing his direction of conversation

Great job!

emailed, filed … I’m sure you know the drill.” He glances up and away again, as though he isn’t comfortable making eye

yes. I do, of course I do. I don’t need direction. I need

taking them from him in haste, stopping myself

“Yes, sir.”

apprehension on his face and the tingles inside me ignite with ferocity. Shifting nervously, I try

Carrero.” It’s out of my mouth before I realize I didn’t call him Jake

composure. Years of control, Emma, and you

beyond livid

and instant calming abilities. I glance at the wall clock noting it’s not even 2.00 p.m. and click on why they seem to be going out. I forgot they had a meeting across town at the second Carrero building and are leaving me to man the

in his ivory

building from Jake, several blocks away. I wonder if

calls and email me if you need anything. I’ve left you a pile of folders here.” She taps a small

leave by four thirty.” She smiles, her hand coming and hooking a stray tendril of my

softer. You look so much prettier, more carefree

within, uncomfortable with the attention this slight change is getting me and fully aware it will never happen again. Not entirely comfortable with the

utter goodbyes, turn, and

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255