Page 92 of David

“I’m not in the mood, Boss. I’m here to report the news. You said you wanted to know before it became an issue. I’m doing my job.”

My eyes move over her face.

She’s just the right mix of rebellion, innocence, and darkness.

“You know you’re cute…” I say.

“And that would be sexual harassment, sir,” she says, crushing a smile.

“It’s not when you’re not into dudes like me.”

“That wouldn’t hold in court, sir, if I sued your ass.”

“Cute, as I said. Not in a sexual way. Just to be clear.”

Rolling her eyes, she waves me off.

“And a spoiled brat…” I add, pushing up and closing the gap between us.

My hand wraps around her neck, catching her soft pink hair underneath.

“Tell Miranda I said hi. I’ll stop by in two weeks,” I say and kiss the top of her head.

She smells like cinnamon cookies and perfume.

Her eyes glint with surprise.

“It’s not like I’m not seeing you before then.”

“I’ll be traveling next week.”

“What about Thea’s wedding?”

“I’ll be back by then.”

“And the wedding rehearsal?”

“I’ll fly back before then.”

“All right. Sounds good.”

“Great, kiddo. Thank you for the heads up.”

I pull away from her.

She doesn’t move.

“Anything else?” I toss over my shoulder.

Our eyes meet.

“Let her down easy,” she says quietly. “I know it’s not her job to have a crush on you, but she has feelings.”

“I will. I promise.”

I give her a soft smile before she leaves my room, her floral perfume floating in the air.

It’s like spring has paid me a visit and impetuously pulled away, leaving me bereft.

---