Page 64 of Love Not Qualified

I squinted, trying to figure out what he could possibly want at this hour. Maybe he’s checking up on me? “He was there when I got the phone call,” I explained.

Merielle’s eyes popped up in surprise before her features softened.

Mr. Graves could wait a little longer. “It was pretty embarrassing actually because I cried in his arms and I think I stained his shirt with snot.” I scrunched my nose and watched how her head fell back in laughter.

She smirked, but it disappeared in a flash. She was trying to keep it serious.

“What?” I asked.

“It’s really not the moment.”

“Go ahead. Tell me what’s on your mind.”

“I just think a real boss would’ve told you to take the day off if you can’t work, then he would’ve left. But he stayed and savedthe day because he wants you to like him.” The tone of her voice was serious, but I could see the sparkle in her eyes.

I ignored her with a silly smile on my lips and a shake of my head, then opened my messages.

Mr. Graves

I apologize if it’s the wrong timing, but we need to leave tomorrow for a business trip for two days. I need you there. Let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

My heart skipped a beat. Two days? I couldn’t go. I only had two weeks with my mother, and I was spending most of my time at work anyway.

The decision was made. I was going to ask him to find a replacement. He had to understand I couldn’t leave now.

I turn the phone to Merielle. “Still think he’s into me?”

She snatched it away and her eyes skimmed over the message. Merielle smiled at me, nodding her head as she showed me the screen and put her red nail under a small part. “He said I need you there.”

I took it back from her. “You always understand whatever you want. He’s being professional and the only reason he said that was because I’m his assistant.”

“And you, my friend, are blind.” She pointed her finger at me.

“I’m not going.” I shrugged, then lifted myself from the couch.

“Then what are you going to do?” She instantly fought. “Spend the next two weeks deep inside your head, unable to help your mom and lose the best thing you have right now? As in your job? Go there, do what you do best, and take your mind off things. At least for two days.”

“I don’t need to take my mind off my mother, Merielle. Making a decision like that isn’t a simple thing,” I told her,and watched how her shoulders slumped in defeat. “I’ll be right back.”

When I got to the bathroom and closed the door behind me, I dialed his number. After a few rings, he picked up the call.

“Hi,” I said.

“Hi,” he replied, and my body warmed at his voice.

I took a deep breath. “I thought it’d be more fitting to have this conversation on the phone.” When I realized he wasn’t going to say something, I continued. “I’m sorry I have to say this, but I can’t go. I know it’s my job and my personal life shouldn’t interfere, but I can’t waste two days on a business trip. I’m sorry.”

He was silent for a few moments, before a rough breath touched the speaker. “I understand and don’t take this as me being insensitive, but I can’t find anyone else to come in your place until tomorrow morning. I need you there.”

I need you there.

He said it again.

The sentence echoed in my mind and my insides twisted. His words tugged deep in my head and my breath caught in my throat.

He needed me?

I internally slapped myself. Of course, he needed me as his assistant.

---