Page 123 of Unleashed

“Morgan?” Slade’s voice broke through my concentration, and I didn’t bother looking up from my notes.

“What?” I replied, keeping my eyes on the page.

He closed the door to my small office with a soft click and settled into one of the upholstered black chairs in front of my desk. “What’s the problem now?” He leaned forward, concern etched on his face.

“I’m busy. I don’t have time to discuss it until dinner,” I said, avoiding his gaze.

He sighed, crossing his arms. “I might be late, so tell me now.”

I finally set down my pen and met his gaze, a spark of irritation flaring. “You don’t know?”

He raised an eyebrow. “I have a suspicion. You thought I would give you the vice presidency?”

“I fucking deserve it,” I shot back, my frustration spilling out.

“Just because your last name is Abbott doesn’t mean you deserve it,” he countered, a hint of defensiveness in his tone.

“Who gives a fuck about my name? I’m talking about my experience. Did you turn into your father overnight?” I challenged, my heart racing.

Slade’s eyes narrowed, his brow furrowing. “What the hell is that supposed to mean?” He leaned closer, the tension thickening.

“It means it’s the same old boys’ club bullshit,” I snapped.

He let out a sarcastic laugh, shaking his head. “You think I didn’t give you the position because you’re a woman?”

“Isn’t that the reason?” I asked, crossing my arms defensively.

“No, it’s not. I didn’t give you the position because I don’t want you traveling. I don’t want to live separate lives. Allan Sherman is single and knowledgeable. He can do the job.”

I blinked, incredulous. “So, you didn’t give me the position for your own selfish reasons?”

“Call it what you want, but yes. I don’t want you away from me,” he said, his voice firm but laced with vulnerability.

“But you travel. That’s ridiculous.” I struggled to keep my composure.

“It’s not. I’m not planning to travel all that much. Allan can handle negotiations with me on conference call.”

“Asshole,” I muttered, exasperated.

“Damn right. Fault me if you want, but I hate being away from you.” He softened, and for a moment, I felt a flicker of understanding.

I felt defeated, yet he had a point. The last thing I wanted was to be away from him, and if I took the position, we’d be lucky to see each other a few times a week. The company was expanding globally, and I’d have to travel overseas.

“I understand,” I finally admitted, my voice softer.

“Don’t be upset, or I might have to stop by the jewelry store to make it up to you.” He flashed a teasing grin.

“No, no more gifts,” I insisted, shaking my head.

He frowned, clearly not ready to let it go. “You can’t tell me not to buy you gifts.”

“I can, or I’ll take them back,” I shot back, trying to hold my ground.

“You certainly will not. We can more than afford the gifts I buy you.” He leaned back in the chair, arms crossed defiantly.

“That’s not the point,” I said, frustration bubbling again.

“Then what is?” he pressed, his gaze unwavering.

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