Page 41 of The Protégé

JR2 tucks his phone away and steps away from the bridge. “Thank God you’re here! I was so scared for her!”

My phone buzzed, whipping me back to reality.

Elliot:Don’t forget today’s hair appointment!

Elena:It’s on my calendar.

Elliot:When do you start your new job again?

Elena:Monday.

Elliot:Your boss is sizzling hot, girl! He’s attracted to you.

Based on the event at my house, Orionwasattracted to me.

Elena:How can you tell?

Elliot:From the way he wanted to murder me that day.

I recalled Orion’s agitation. But it wasn’t because of me. It was something else. Or someone else.

But Elliot’s assumption made me smile.

Elena:It wasn’t toward you. I think he’s just a moody guy.

Elliot:He was jealous. Do you have an outfit ready for work?

Elena:No. I’m just going to wear casual office attire.

Elliot:What if his office demands more business style?

Ugh.I had a pencil skirt and a suit, if that was what he wanted.

After texting for a few more minutes, I told Elliot I had to go. I stared at my closet and didn’t like any of the clothes I had. But they’d do. I didn’t want to waste money on a new wardrobe for a temporary job.

I had to know and sent him a text.

Elena:Hi! What’s the dress code for your company?

Orion:Wear whatever you want.

Elena:Really?

Orion.Yes.

Elena:T-shirt and jeans?

I teased.

Orion:If you want.

Elena:Okay. Thanks.

Orion:Did you see the car yet?

Shit.I’d forgotten about it after the horrible nightmare and my chat with Elliot. I rushed to the window.

“Holy shit!” I shouted with glee and horror.

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