Page 4 of My Billionaire Casino Boss

“Geez,” I mutter, finishing the conversation with Mom before I check his message. It’s Thomas’s number and a demand that I call him.

Fantastic.

I take the day to unpack, still thinking about Thomas. By the end of the afternoon, I sit down and send him a message, hoping he doesn’t respond. No such luck. I agree to meet him for lunch at the casino the following day after a few messages, then drop the phone on my couch with a long sigh.

I go into my room to decide what to wear to the interview. I unpacked my clothes first, so I quickly find a pair of black slacks and heels, then look through my shirts. I have a silk blouse in a cream shade that is perfect for this. Not too dressy, but still classy. I used it for my intern job in Colorado and have a few business-casual outfits because of that job.

In the morning, I let my hair dry in loose curls and add some makeup to bring out my eyes after not wearing any for a couple of weeks. Working will be good for me, I think as I drive my SUV to the casino. The exterior is rustic and impressive. It suits the setting of the mountains and woods. Once I step inside, I remember how nice this place is. They designed the hotel lobby like a cabin with comfortable couches, two massive fireplaces, and a long front desk. It’s a large room but cozy and inviting. I cut across the lobby, making my way to the restaurant.

I see groups of familiar men and remember it’s the annual golf tournament for some of the famous athletes. Knowing Thomas, he did everything he could to keep them here, along with the overzealous fans that follow them around.

The players are all hot, but I look away. I know better than to get involved with any of the guys here for the weekend. I walk to the restaurant and look around, not seeing anyone who looks like Thomas. Huh. I go to the hostess and mention I’m here to meet him when I hear a sexy, smooth voice behind me.

“Lily?”

I turn to look at Thomas and suck in my breath. He’s every bit as handsome as he used to be and more, and I take him in for a moment. Thomas must spend a lot of time in the gym and on the slopes on his

board, and I can tell when he’s in that suit.

I am in so much trouble.

I greet the hostess, and she takes us to the best table in the restaurant. The view is of the biggest mountain, and I wonder if Thomas set this up. He’s probably sleeping with her.

He’s looking at me, but I keep staring outside until he starts the conversation. It’s small talk, and I know it will stay that way. We will not revisit our night together.

We talk about the hotel and the tournament while we wait for our sandwiches before getting down to business. Thomas is obviously checking me out, and I feel my skin heat.

“So, you’re looking for a job?” he asks, and I nod. “How was college?”

“Busy but great. I loved Colorado, but I guess my heart belongs in Tahoe.” I smile and he nods, looking out of the window. “So, you have an opening here?”

“Yes, I do. There are a few, but I thought you might like the front desk. You’ll just be checking people in and out and handling any requests from the guests. It’s a busy spot in the hotel since there are a lot of questions from people about the casino and the surrounding area. We’ll get you caught up so you can answer anything.” Thomas looks at me with a curious expression and I smile trying to look grateful.

“That sounds great. It’s a beautiful lobby. What are the details about the job?” I ask, wondering if I’d have any benefits. It would be nice since I won’t have mine through my parents for much longer.

Thomas tells me he offers full benefits for full-time and part-time workers and a generous salary. This will work out great for me for the time being, and I tell myself to feel positive about the job.

I’m nervous about working with him, but how often will I see him? Thomas is still gorgeous, and I know I’m attracted to him, but nothing can happen. I agree to be there in two days to start a day shift, and we’ll handle the paperwork then. My eyes lock with his; they remind me of a tropical ocean. They’re mesmerizing, and I fight the urge to shiver, remembering how they look when he’s aroused. Everything about him makes me feel things I don’t want to, but I think about Eric as I leave. I can’t go there. The guys are best friends and have been for years. It’s bad enough we’ve slept together once. It’snothappening again.

three

Three Kinds Of Crazy – Thomas

LilystartsonaWednesday, and once she’s done with the usual paperwork, I stop by the desk to see how her day is going and to make sure she’s getting the proper training.

She looks gorgeous in black pants and a white button-up shirt that would make anyone else look average, and we make eye contact. Her hair is pulled back into a low ponytail, and she has a way with makeup that brings out her eyes and full lips.

“Everything went well with the paperwork?” I ask her, leaning over the counter on the side.

“It did. Jacob is a great trainer, too.” She smiles at the guy working with her, and I feel something unfamiliar in my stomach.

“I hope so. Just remember, there’s no dating between employees,” I remind him, and they both stare at me. Where did that come from? It is a general rule, but I’m normally not that quick about telling my employees once they’ve started working for me. I’m not stupid, of course—people date. I just don’t get involved unless it causes a problem, and so far, so good.

“Okay,” Lily replies with a question in her voice. I’m sure she thinks I’ve dated women who work for me, or at least slept with them. It happens much less than she probably thinks, though. In fact, hardly ever. Lily knows how I am, but I keep work professional. There are plenty of other places around here for finding women to hook up with.

Jake narrows his eyes at me, confused, and gets back to showing Lily the computer system, leaning in a little too close for my comfort. I push myself from the desk and walk away, needing something else to do.

I don’t look back, but I feel people watching me and remind myself to stay in control. Back in my office, I try to calm down. Lily is just another woman who works for me. She’s an adult and she can handle herself. But I don’t know how to handle myself. I don’t know how to act around her. Even though I try to avoid Lily as much as possible, it doesn’t stop me from thinking about her.

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