Page 49 of Unleashed

The two men across from me exchanged a glance before returning to their work. I frowned at the subtle scrutiny but tried to focus on the task at hand. Claire left after showing me how to access my email, where I found an assignment from Michael. It involved upgrading a terrace for a residential client. I hadn’t worked on residential projects for a while, but it was a challenge I welcomed.

As I began diving into the project, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. This was a new chapter, and despite the rough start, I was determined to make it work.

I was soimmersed in my work that the passage of time slipped by unnoticed. Michael’s hand on my shoulder jolted me from my focus. I spun around, startled.

“Time for lunch,” he announced, his voice slicing through the silence.

Blinking up at him, I said, “Claire mentioned we were going to the Blue Room.”

Michael’s grin was easy, yet there was a spark of mischief in his eyes. “I have a private suite. I take all my new hires there.”

I glanced around at the empty desks, my confusion evident. “So, I’m not having lunch with the rest of the staff?”

“Nope,” he replied, guiding me with a firm but gentle hand towards the elevators. “We’re going to my suite. My car’s waiting outside.”

As the elevator doors slid open, Michael’s hand remained at the small of my back, leading me smoothly into the cool, polished interior. The ride down was accompanied by the soft hum of the elevator and the rhythmic tapping of Michael’s fingers on his phone.

“How’s everything going so far?” he asked, eyes still on his screen.

I steadied my voice. “I’m getting the hang of things. The project’s interesting.”

“Interesting how?” Michael’s gaze flicked up briefly, a hint of curiosity in his eyes.

“I haven’t worked on residential projects in a while. It’s a refreshing change.”

Michael’s brow furrowed slightly. “Any issues?”

“None yet. I’ve reached out to the architect a couple of times for specs.”

“That’s good. We work with Arden Kohler on numerous projects. You’ll be in good hands.”

I was familiar with Arden Kohler having met him several times during visits to Abbott. He was easy to work with and took suggestions without arrogance despite his many years in architecture.

“I know,” I said, glancing at him. “Is everyone treating you well?”

“Absolutely. My staff is respectful, and I keep competitiveness in check. Everyone gets a fair shot.”

“It wasn’t like that at Abbott,” I said, a touch of nostalgia in my voice.

“I wish you had come here sooner,” Michael said, his voice sincere. “A mind like yours is exactly what I need.”

For the salary he was paying me, I wished I made the decision to move sooner. I realized I would never get the chance I deserved and it was possible here I would. I was happy with my decision.

“It seems like you have plenty of bright minds here already,” I countered, curious.

“None as beautiful as you,” Michael said, his tone unexpectedly earnest.

A blush crept up my cheeks, and I looked down at my navy heels, trying to hide my embarrassment. “Thank you,” I mumbled.

Michael chuckled softly as the elevator doors opened to the main floor. He held the door for me, his hand once again guiding me through the glass front doors and out to the curb where a sleek blue sedan was parked.

A man in a black suit opened the door for us. I slid into the cool interior, a shiver running down my spine as the air conditioning enveloped me. The heady scent of Michael’s cologne filled the small space, making me feel oddly disoriented.

“Did HR give you everything you needed?” Michael’s voice broke the silence, his eyes still fixed on his phone.

“Yes, I’ve got all the details for insurance and retirement plans,” I replied, struggling to focus on the conversation.

Michael’s eyes flicked up. “How was your vacation? You mentioned hiking?”

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