Page 27 of Aiden

“Who?” He demands, bringing his face closer.

“Lexi,” I admit.

He lets out a long breath. “What did she say?”

I hesitate, not wanting to cause trouble.

“Fine. You don’t want to talk about it, that’s fine. She made you cry, and that’s all I need to know.” He opens the door and calls someone over. “Ask Ms. Stone to come to my office, please.”

I shake my head, not wanting to deal with her meanness again. Why can’t I be more confident in myself? I should have told her off.

Lexi bounces into the room moments later, her face falling once she catches sight of Aiden and I.

The door is barely closed behind her when Aiden instructs coldly, “Get your shit and get out.”

“But Aiden…” She whines.

He holds a hand up, cutting her off. I’m assuming from her words in the bathroom that this conversation isn’t one of a boss and his employee, it’s something deeper.

Crossing her arms, she looks around the room, “Can I at least explain myself?”

“There’s no need. You aren’t even on the payroll yet, so technically you’re not a part of this company. I will not have childish drama inside my office. I should have never hired you in the first place.”

Huffing, she stomps out of the room.

“I’m very sorry.” His voice is soft and silky once again.

I love that he only speaks to me with that tone. “No, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to cause drama. I never do. I’m embarrassed I couldn’t hide my emotions.”

He laughs softly before helping me down and wrapping me in a tight hug. “I know you don’t like drama. That’s what I like about you.”

I blush, thankful my face is buried in his chest so he can’t see me.

“If anyone is ever mean to you again, don’t hesitate to tell me.” His voice is stern, but still filled with concern.

I nod in agreement as he pulls me away to wipe the tears from my eyes. “I didn’t mean to get emotional. It just hurt to hear what she said.”

“We’ll discuss that later. You ready to go?”

The coast is clear as we head off. I’m thankful he stood up for me, but I just wish none of this happened. The first day I show up at his job, one of his employees gets fired because of me. How embarrassing. I wish I told her off and went on with my day.

I let out a long yawn as my eyes grow heavy, tired from the early morning. “Do you have a coffee machine at the apartment?”

“Yes, the realtor said it’s completely furnished. But I haven’t gotten a chance to get groceries, so no coffee.”

“Want to go to a cafe? There’s one near my new place.”

I nod happily.

We pull up in front of the brick building that is swanky and different from the Dunkin Donuts by my place. Aiden pays for my large latte against my wishes, but I’m thankful.I really need to get a job.I look for a seat while Aiden waits for our drinks. I’m on my phone when the chair in front of me slides out and I look up to find a man in his twenties staring down at me.

He eyes me with interest. “Hey, mind if I sit with you?” Not waiting for my answer, he takes a seat.

“Actually...” I begin but I’m cut off when Aiden sets my latte in front of me.

“Hey princess.” He scowls as he eyes the man. “Up,” He demands.

I watch the stranger get up and walk away. “What was that about? He didn’t know I was with anyone. Why are you so territorial?”

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