Page 34 of Paradise Pride

“I’m sorry that happened to you. But as Sergei said, you have no business being in that lift, especially when you’re off duty, so you won’t be using it again.” Stella paused. “You can’t go up there anymore, Florence. I sincerely hope he doesn’t look at the security footage because that could get me in trouble too.”

“I didn’t think the cameras worked,” Florence said sheepishly. She met Stella’s gaze and was relieved not to see anger in it. “I’m so, so sorry, and thank you for covering for me. I wasn’t thinking.”

“I figured as much. I was willing to turn a blind eye, but I can’t have you making out in lifts at work, so you’ll have to take this elsewhere.”

Florence nodded. “Are you going to give me an official warning?”

“No. We’re going to pretend it never happened and hope for the best,” Stella said. “You only have seven weeks left on your seasonal contract, so don’t screw it up now that you’re almost done. You’re good at your job, and I’d love to have you back next year.” She shrugged. “And between you and me, yes, there’s a big chance the cameras are out of order. They’re always talking about repairing them in budget meetings.”

“I promise I won’t screw it up.” Florence stuck her head out of the window and closed her eyes. “I wasn’t just messing around. I really like her.”

“It seems she likes you too. How long is she staying?”

“She’s got nine days left.”

“And how do you feel about that?” Stella asked.

“I wish we had more time to see where it could lead. It feels special,” Florence said honestly. “I’m worried it will fizzle out after she leaves, or that she will change her mind when she’s back in London.” She pointed to the main boulevard. “Left here and right at the third set of traffic lights.”

Stella followed Florence’s instructions. “She lives in London? That’s convenient.”

“Yes, but as I said, it’s been a bit of a whirlwind, and I’m not sure how she’ll feel when she gets home. She’s never been with a woman before, and I’m quite a bit younger, so I wouldn’t blame her if she doesn’t want more.”

“Oh… Right, I get that you’re a bit worried.” Stella frowned and bit her lip as if she was mulling over something before she continued. “Would you like to take some time off?”

“Are you serious?”

“Absolutely. High season is over, and I’m sure there are lots of people on the team who would love overtime now it’s not so busy anymore.”

“Huh. I thought you might give me a disciplinary or worse, but instead you’re offering me time off…” Florence chirped up. The thought of more time with Meghan instantly made her feel better. “I’d love that. Thank you so much.”

“Good. Email me the dates so I have it on record and enjoy your time with her,” Stella said. “I really hope it works out for you. I know how it feels and I can relate.”

“I really appreciate that. How are you and Lisa?” It felt a little strange to ask her manager such a question, as they rarely got personal with each other.

“We’re good.” Stella smirked. “We’re very, very good, and Lisa’s here to stay. She’s got a job she loves, she’s living with me, we share two adorable little puppies, and we’re happy.”

“That’s amazing.” With all the gossip going on at work, Florence already knew this, but she kept that to herself. “So, she’s the one?”

“Yes. No doubt about it,” Stella said resolutely.

“How did you know?” Florence asked. “How did you know she was the one?”

“She made me incredibly happy, and I couldn’t stand the thought of being without her. This might sound cliché, but when I see her, I feel like the sun comes up. She warms me from the inside out.”

“That’s so sweet.” Florence pointed to the right as they neared her street. “This one.”

“You live close to work.” Stella took the turn and drove to the end of the street until Florence gestured to her apartment. “And you have a café right underneath.” She laughed as she spotted the closed shutters opposite. “And a strip club nearby. How convenient.”

Florence laughed too. “Yes. I share the apartment with another woman who’s never home—she’s a flight attendant—and with Manuel.”

“Manuel from work?” Stella shot her a humorous look. “That must be interesting.”

“It can get a little noisy when he brings girls home, or when he has poker nights with his friends, or when he’s grunting while working out, but all in all, it’s not so bad. He’s a good guy.” Florence opened the door but stayed where she was for the moment. “Please don’t tell him about the lift, though. It might sound weird, but I’d rather people didn’t know.”

“Of course. This stays between us. I hope your headache goes away soon. Take it easy and have fun with Meghan.”

“I will.” Florence got out of the car and smiled back at Stella. “Seriously, thank you. You’re an amazing boss.”

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