Page 29 of His Rules

I was honestly shocked at the two sides of him. The moment felt surreal, as if there were two men instead of one.

“Yes, Mr. Winfield.” She turned sharply and lifted a single eyebrow when looking at me. “Good luck.”

I had the distinct feeling I was going to need it. The door closed behind me and the two of us were left all alone. A feeling of anger swept through me.

That he was an asshole to his employees.

That he hadn’t told me that he was married.

That I’d fallen hard for his bullshit.

Thank God, I’d come to my senses when I had. I walked closer, holding my head high. He was far more intimidating standing behind a desk. That didn’t stop me from moving all the way to the edge. I waited for him to say anything, keeping my eyes locked on his.

There was a strange moment of understanding between us. While his expression didn’t exactly soften, there wasn’t nearly as much venom on his face as I’d seen before.

“Kacey Taylor.” The way he repeated my name felt strangely alluring.

“Yes, Sebastian Winfield.”

“You didn’t tell me you were applying for the position.”

“I didn’t know I was. You didn’t tell me you were married.”

Sebastian didn’t respond at all at first. Meanwhile, heat rose on both cheeks. He slowly turned his head. “I assure you, Ms.Taylor, I am not married. I doubt my ex would admit she was ever married to me.”

“Oh.” Oh? That was all I could think of to say after I’d driven my foot into my mouth with a sledgehammer? “Why does everyone think you’re still married?”

The hint of annoyance was similar to before. “Because it’s no one’s goddamn business what I do in my personal life. Let them think what they want.”

Ouch. Whatever had occurred had left him a bitter man. Did that excuse his behavior? Hell, no. Then again, I knew something about heartache and how it could change a person. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry. You need to learn apologizing highlights weakness in a competitive business. I’m not sorry. We weren’t a good fit.”

“Then I won’t apologize for calling you on the carpet at the coffee shop.”

His annoyance was increasing, the heat building between us explosive. I couldn’t quite figure out if I was trying to lose the job.

I was also beginning to wonder how I’d been so wrong about him. His callous attitude regarding his marriage certainly didn’t give me the warm and fuzzies any more than how he’d treated the young woman in the shop.

“Please. Don’t. Actions are a reflection of one’s soul.”

Was he kidding me? “I’ll keep that in mind.”

He eased around the corner of his desk, sitting on the edge and folding his arms. “Tell me why I should hire you.”

“You’d know that had you taken time to read over my resume.” I was being a little pushy, but my instinct screamed the man was testing me.

“Take a seat, Ms. Taylor.”

“I believe I’m more comfortable standing.”

Clear amusement was easily seen in his eyes before he looked away briefly. “Have it your way. Let’s cut to the chase, Ms. Taylor. From what I noticed on your resume, it would seem you’re perfectly qualified to handle the position. You do understand there will be long hours and you must remain strictly loyal to my firm. And to me directly.”

“In other words, I’m selling my soul.”

He slowly allowed a knowing smirk to cross his face. I hated it, especially from a man. “Exactly. Now, what I’m asking is why you want to work with us.”

The testing continued. “Because I believe I can offer some advice as an initial outsider that may be of use in dealing with both clients and competitors. It would seem several are breathing down your neck with enough pressure you’re cracking at the seams. Namely, Waterhouse Industries.”

---