Page 2 of Room One Hundred & Twenty-One: Kiss of Fire

“If those men of yours can’t even spare you a weekend to come see your mother, then maybe you shouldn’t be working there,” she huffs.

“Mom…” I feel the beginning of a headache coming on.

Does she not believe that I desperately want to see her too? She’s an amazing woman who raised me all on her own. And now, I want to be the one taking care of her. I know that means some sacrifices for us, but I’ll gladly make them if my mother doesn’t have to work so hard and has a little money to treat herself to some extra things.

“I promise I’ll see what I can do,” I assure her. “But this is my job, Mom, and I really do like it, even if I’m working like crazy.”

And that’s the truth. Even though this role takes the majority of my time and energy, I’m good at it. It gives me a sense of pride to know that I’m the woman behind the scenes, making sure that my bosses remain on top of their game. Plus, I get to gaze at their gorgeous faces and tight asses every day. No matter how much they drive me crazy, the sight of them definitely makes up for some of it.

“Okay, honey. I’m sorry. I know you’re at work. I just wanted to make sure you were doing okay and hear your voice. I miss you.” She sounds a bit lonely and I hate it.

“Mom, you don’t have to apologize for wanting to see me. I want to see you too. I promise I’ll try to get home soon, okay?”

We chat for a few more minutes before we say our goodbyes and I step out of the bathroom. But my world tilts upside down when I slam into a hard chest.

“Shit,” I hiss. “I mean—” I rub the tip of my throbbing nose as two hands grasp my shoulders.

When I glance up, Brody Smith is standing there with concern etched on his face. “Are you alright?”

“Yes, I’m sorry. I should watch where I’m going.”

“No, it’s my fault. I didn’t see you.” Tucking his index finger beneath my chin, he slowly lifts my head, giving me a once-over. “Doesn’t look too bad. Just a little red.”

Heat creeps along my cheeks, and I immediately forget any discomfort I might’ve been feeling when I stare into his eyes. “I-I’m fine.” I take a step back as those same vibrant-green eyes scan my face before he agrees.

Then, the corners of his mouth lift and form the most perfect, boyish smile. The kind that tugs at your heart and your pussy at the same time. Out of all my bosses, Brody’s the one I feel most comfortable with. He’s caring and personable, someone who gives you his full attention no matter what you’re talking about.

My gaze drags over his muscular physique and I barely refrain from gawking at him. Today, he’s casually dressed in a relaxed white button down with the sleeves rolled up revealing strong, corded forearms. His jeans are a faded blue that complements his expensive cognac-brown loafers.

His smooth, honeyed voice brings my gaze back to his. “How’s your day going?”

“Oh, I… I’m good, Mr. Smith. How are you?” He’s yet to remove his warm, heavy hands from my shoulders and his touch short-circuits my thoughts.

“I’m well. Just finished a few designs for the meeting this afternoon.”

He’s referring to the clients from OCcoming in to discuss their promotional campaign. They have the newest energy drink on the market and people have been raving about it for weeks. It provides a healthy dose of vitamin C, caffeine, and amino acids, with a sweet tangerine flavor. Brody gave me a few samples to try and I loved it.

He’s been in his office all morning finishing up his concept to pitch to the group. He’s phenomenal at conveying a messagethrough his artistic designs, but once he focuses on something, nothing can tear his attention away. Not even sleep, which is apparent from the smidge of darkness beneath his eyes. I know he’s worked hard on this, even though he could’ve easily handed it off to his team. But some projects the man likes to do himself, and I must say I greatly respect him for that.

“I’m sure whatever you came up with, it’ll be great. They chose Mosaic to advertise their brand because they believe in your talent and what we can do for them.”

Brody smiles as I reassure him.

“So, maybe take a break before the meeting. Get some food and relax. You need to be on your A-game when they get here. I’ll take care of everything else for you. I promise.”

He looks slightly taken aback before a grin appears on his ruggedly handsome face. Maybe he doesn’t hear it enough that he needs to take better care of himself, but I certainly don’t mind telling him. However, the moment is short-lived when he drops his hands from my shoulders and clears his throat.

“Thank you for your concern. I’ll let you get back to work.” Then he walks off like nothing happened.

I’ve grown used to my bosses retreating from me as if they suddenly remember I’m justthe help. It doesn’t even faze me anymore and I disregard this interaction like I have all the others. I return to my desk and continue with my work, keeping my head down for the next several hours.

Before I know it, it’s time to go home, but I hear the sound of stilettos clacking against the floor. I glance at our shared calendar but don’t see anything on the books, so I’m confused when I turn around to find Ms. Abernathy escorting a woman to Noah’s office. My coworker subtly shakes her head and gives me a look that says I shouldn’t ask any questions. But I’m curious about the beautiful woman in the designer trench coat with shiny blond hair and bright-blue eyes.

I watch as she enters the room where Noah sits in his chair, staring at her while Chance takes her hand and places a kiss on her knuckles. I’ve seen him greet numerous women before but never with a gesture like that. It feels intimate and I’m immediately jealous—although I have no right to be.

Every fiber of my being is telling me to look anywhere else and mind my business. But I can’t. I want to know who she is and why the men I’ve been longing for are giving her attention. My breath hitches as something feral builds inside me. I stand, ready to storm out before I make a fool of myself, as I watch my three bosses hungrily eyeing this woman like she’s their prey.

Then Noah’s gaze cuts to mine and I freeze.

---