Page 71 of Tempt Thy Neighbor

Holland’s report was way better than mine. It was significantly more detailed, and I think it was far easier to execute than what I came up with for the client.

And that’s without me even getting into how well she was able to handle being open to criticism and discussion without allowing anyone else to just take over the meeting.

She fucking killed it, and Emma suggesting otherwise just pisses me off.

“I think she did an incredible job and we’d all be lucky to have her leading our team,” I tell her, praying I don’t snap at her before my coffee is finished.

“You’re just being modest.” Emma’s hand lands on my bicep and she gives it a squeeze. “Which is silly. We both know you’re much more qualified for the promotion than she is. You have more experience in the field than her. She was anassistantbefore this.” The condemnation drips off the word assistant. “That’s a far cry from being ready for project management.”

I clench my jaw tight. “Uh…”

“I mean, your father istheReginald Barnes. He is a legend in the business world.You’rea Barnes, for crying out loud—of course you’re going to be able to lead a team better than anyone else. I can’t believe Jessa is going through this whole charade. It’s obvious you’re the best candidate for the promotion.”

And there it is.

The reminder that I’ll forever be nothing more than a Barnes.

I had hoped that when I moved here, I wouldn’t be constantly reminded of where I came from. That I could finally just beme.

When Jessa hired me, she made it clear she was hiring me based on the merits of my resume and not my name, which was why I started where I did. I thought maybe I could work my way up to the top on my accomplishments alone.

And with things going so well, being in the running for a promotion I know I’ve truly earned because of my hard work…well, I almost forgot there are people who only care about my last name and not the man behind it.

“Oh! Hey, Holland!” Emma says, and I take her distraction as a chance to step away from her touch. “Your presentation wassogreat. Sutton was just telling me how he thinks you’d be a great project manager.”

Holland’s eyes find mine as she struts into the room. She quirks a brow my direction. “Was he now?”

“I have a few notes, but we can discuss them later if you’d like.”

I bring my coffee to my lips, hoping to hide my smile at the way her eyes flicker with heat, catching my double entendre clearly. I have every intention of reciprocating the blow job she gave me yesterday.

She moves to the fridge, looking for her afternoon Diet Coke I’m sure. “I’d love to hear your thoughts.”

She says it so casually, but I see it, the way a flush begins to creep up her neck, the way her nipples begin to strain against her blouse. Settling back against the counter across from me, she cracks the tab on her soda, never once taking her eyes off me.

I ache to crowd against her and shove that skirt over her hips and eat her right now.

Thankfully Emma pulls my attention back to safe territory before I do something dangerous.

“So nice of you to offer to help her. I’m going to grab some lunch. I brought a few homemade chocolate chip cookies if you’d like to try any, Sutton.”

I give her a polite smile. “Thanks, but I’m on a diet.” I tap my stomach. “Have to keep my figure nice and tight somehow.”

Her eyes spark with interest, her tongue snaking out to slip across her lips. “Well, I’d say you’re doing a great job. Let me know if you want to cash in that rain check tonight.”

With that, she saunters from the room, making sure to put an extra sway in her hips.

It does nothing for me.

Holland snorts out a laugh as soon as she’s out of earshot.

“So nice of you to offer tohelpme, Sutton,” she teases. “I’m really looking forward to thosenotes.”

I stalk toward her, not stopping until our feet are touching. She stands up straight, meeting my challenge.

“You’re playing with fire,” I warn her.

“I have no idea what you could possibly mean.” She bats her lashes innocently. “I’m just saying I appreciate your interest in helping me get this promotion. It’s chivalrous of you, really, offering your expertise to your rival.”

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