Page 2 of He Falls First

Matt shakes his head. “I really don’t see how you’re going to pull this off,” he says with a wry smile. “But it’s sure going to be fun to watch you try.”

I shoot him a glare that would scare anyone else off from using me as entertainment fodder, but Matt’s not afraid of me. We’ve known each other since college, and unfortunately, I don’t think anyone who witnessed my level of social awkwardness during that time could ever be intimidated by the confident man they see today, regardless of my reputation.

“It’s only for six weeks,” I remind him, straightening my blazer and tugging at my cuffs. “After that, the trial period will be over, the acquisition will be official, and I don’t have to pretend to fit in with these stuffy clients and board members who think a man’s only fit to lead a company if he’s family-friendly.”

I don’t get it. I’d rather work with a businessman who’s all about the business, not raising a family. A wife and kids would tear me away from pursuing success here, which is why I don’t have them. Part of the reason, anyway.

I’ve made my billions by being ruthless, efficient, and hardworking. I didn’t get to where I am today by attending soccer games and PTA meetings.

“I guess we’ll see,” Matt says, amusement still dancing in his eyes. “Here comes your first test. It’s time to meet the only person brave enough to face you on Day One: Elizabeth Summers, your new executive assistant.”

My gaze falls on Elizabeth, and I find myself involuntarily holding my breath, my chest tight with surprise. She’s stunning, with chestnut hair that falls in loose waves and deep blue eyes that meet mine through thick lashes. She’s wearing little to no makeup, yet she looks gorgeous. I take a moment to size her up, taking in her tailored blazer and fitted jeans that somehow manage to look both sophisticated and comfortable. Her clothes hug her curves, but I force my eyes back up to meet hers.

Damn it. She’s attractive. I don’t know why I’m so annoyed by this fact. I’ve always been all-business, no distractions, and this is not the time for an exception.

“Elizabeth,” I finally say, breaking the silence and speaking curtly. “Nice to meet you.”

“Hello, Mr. Hendrix. I’m looking forward to working with you.”

I want to groan. She’s one of those. One of those women who thinks, for God knows what reason, that she should make her voice sound like a baby’s even when addressing fully matured human adults. She’s probably doing it because I’m a man, and because some very misguided soul once told her that the baby voice appeals to men.

Well, it doesn’t appeal to me. Her voice is all breathy and squeaky, like she’s trying to imitate Marilyn Monroe but someone’s mixed helium with syrup and poured it on her vocal cords. At least she’s not turning her r’s into w’s—yet. I’ve got to nip this in the bud right now.

“Don’t do that with me,” I warn her.

She blinks. “Don’t do what, sir?” Still the voice of a breathy baby.

“That damned baby voice affectation. It’s insufferable.” I rub my temples as if trying to erase the sound from my memory.

Elizabeth’s eyes widen.

Matt tries to interrupt. “Er, Hendrix…”

I hold up a hand to stop him so I can continue addressing Elizabeth. “That voice is childish and unprofessional, and there’s no place for it in a proper work environment. Understand?”

Elizabeth’s cheeks redden, and Matt swallows hard.

I glare at him. “What?”

“That’s Elizabeth’s real voice, Hendrix. It’s just how she speaks. There’s no affectation.”

Elizabeth just nods as her face keeps reddening, the crimson color spreading down to her neck now.

My gaze swivels towards her. I suppose she’s waiting for an apology.

“Fine,” I tell her. “Forget what I said.”

“Thank you for your understanding, Mr. Hendrix,” she says, and the sincerity in her eyes is almost disarming.

I feel a flutter in my chest. Dammit, what the hell is wrong with me? Her chipper attitude should really annoy me. But it makes her seem very sure of herself, and I’ve always been attracted to confident women.

I need to shut down this attraction before I become known for lechery. Elizabeth Summers might be the only person in the office who isn’t scared to show up and face me, and I don’t want that to change.

Besides, she’s young—mid-twenties, maybe—with her whole life ahead of her. She has better things to do than get caught up with someone like me.

“Alright, Elizabeth.” A sudden dryness grips my throat, forcing me to swallow before I can continue speaking. “Here’s a quick rundown of your duties.” I begin listing off tasks, trying to keep it simple but detailed enough for her to understand the gist of what I expect from her. “You’ll manage my schedule, answer emails and calls, coordinate with other departments, arrange meetings, and prepare reports.”

Elizabeth nods, seemingly unfazed by my brusque manner. “Of course. I’ve already compiled a list of your upcoming meetings and appointments. Is there anything else you need me to do?”

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