Page 43 of Dear Grumpy Boss

From:[email protected]

Dear Elise,

Would you join me for lunch today?

I’d like to apologize for neglecting you last week,andsince we technically won’t be on company time, we can discuss the murder of redheaded Thomas.

Professionally,

Weston

A minute later, her email pinged in my inbox, and a stupid grin spread across my face.

To:[email protected]

From:[email protected]

Dear Grumpy Boss,

I’ll accept your invitation under two conditions:

You can’t glare, frown, or scowl at me.

There is no mention of murdering or maiming my dates.

Since I’m doubtful you can meet those conditions, I’ll write your name on my calendar in pencil so I can erase you at any moment.

Skeptically,

Elise

For the first time, probably ever in this office, I tossed my head back and laughed. Elise Levy had just laid down a challenge, and I was more than willing to accept it.

To:[email protected]

From:[email protected]

Dear Elise,

Mark me down in pen.

Confidently,

Weston

Chapter Eleven

Elise

Westontookmetoa sushi restaurant a few blocks from Andes headquarters. We’d just placed our orders, and so far he had managed to keep his facial expressions on an even keel.

He clasped his hands on the table. “I’m sorry again for last week.”

He’d always had nice hands. Long fingers. Neatly trimmed nails. But now, they were essentially hand porn. Veins stood out like wild rivers running beneath his skin made golden by the sun. The calluses on his palms and fingers belied his position as CEO. Weston must have still loved spending time outdoors.

“It’s fine. It was presumptuous of me to think you’d have time for me.” I was completely over the rejection. When I’d had time to reflect on it, I’d felt a little stupid for calling. His schedule probably had next to no flexibility.

“No, it wasn’t presumptuous at all. I’ll always make time for you if I can, Elise.” He picked up his hot tea and took a slow sip before placing it on the table. “I have this problem. Well, I should say I’ve been told it’s a problem even though it’s always worked to my benefit.”

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