Page 40 of For the Lover in You
I looked between the two. The meaning of the conference was self-explanatory, but I didn't get the excitement. Whenever Kyle attended these types of conferences, he always complained about how boring they were. He complained about the guest speakers, the hotel, the food, and the people. He made it seem like a bad thing.
"I was thinking maybe Mila could go this year."
My eyes widened and bounced from Susanna to Tremaine.
"Me?"
He nodded. "I think it would be great exposure and an amazing networking opportunity."
"Oh, I agree! I've met so many people over the years from all over. This is such a great idea."
"What do you think, Mila?" Tremaine asked.
"Um...can I make arrangements for KJ before I fully commit?"
"Of course, you have plenty of time. Just let me know."
I did a tight-lipped smile. Tremaine went back to reviewing more action items before he dismissed us.
"Mila, can you hang back for a second?"
Susanna walked out, leaving me in the room with Tremaine. I bounced my knee, feeling my heart race now that I was alone with him.
"Mila, I would like to apologize for the other night."
I pretended I didn't know what he was referring to. However, I knew he was talking about the kiss.
"I'm not sure what you're talking about."
"Mila, don't play crazy. I'm talking about the kiss. I overstepped, and I shouldn't have. If I have made you feel uncomfortable, I promise that was not my intention. Please forgive me."
I paused. He had a sincere look on his face. I knew Tremaine was seriously sorry for his actions. Yet, he didn't act alone.
"It's not all on you. So, I apologize for my actions that day as well. From the throw-up, inconveniencing your night, and the kiss. I hope I'm not fired."
"Nah, it's all good. We just have to remind ourselves what the relationship is. I'm your boss and you're my employee. Neither one of us wants to mix business with pleasure."
I nodded in agreement. Even though I knew this battle of controlling my inner thoughts would take over. I made a mental note to order myself a sex toy to help fix the craving I felt.
He reached into his desk drawer and pulled out an envelope.
"Also, this is your sign-on bonus. Susanna and I agreed that if the new office manager lasted a week, they would receive a sign-on bonus."
"Thank you," I stated with a smile.
To me, any money at the time was good for me. I was saving all I could to afford a decent lawyer.
"You're welcome. Go ahead and get back to work. I'm going to head out."
I smiled and quickly exited his office. By the time I made it back to my desk, I had finally released the breath I was holding. I sat in my seat and stared at the envelope. I wasn't sure how much it was, but I was thrilled to receive extra money. I opened the envelope, and my eyes damn near fell out of their sockets. There were a bunch of blue-faced hundreds. I looked around to make sure I wasn't getting punked. I pulled the cash out, slowly counting the bills. It was twenty hundred-dollar bills. This had to be some sort of mistake. Tremaine's door opened, and I stood to ask him if he had made an error, but before I could, he speed-walked toward the door.
"Remember, ladies, if you need anything, please reach out. I'm only a call away."
He looked at me.
"Mila."
"Yes?"
