MIKHAILA
The sound of my heels clicking against the marble floor echoes like a victory anthem down the hallway. My lips tug into a satisfied smile, every step laced with purpose.
He said nothing but the look in his eyes said it all. He just stood there-- jaw clenched, chest rising hard like he was trying to keep himself from doing something reckless.
Good.
That's what I wanted.
I slow down as I approach the elevator, pressing the button I wait for it to open. My fingers still feel the heat of his skin -- the brief moment my palm had rested on his chest before I leaned in, whispered filth in his ear and walked away like I hadn't just tossed gasoline on a simmering flame.
The elevator dings. I step inside.
As the door closes I catch a glimpse of his office, I know he's still in there, probably rooted to the floor tasting the words I left behind. Some things never change, funny how I can still get under his skin.
The elevator descends, and I lean against the mirrored wall, heart pounding, but victorious.
That was reckless. Dangerous. Bold.
Purrr- fect combo.
Finally for once, I wasn't the one left speechless. He was.
And if I know Lorenzo -- and I know I do-- he won't be able to sit with that loss for long he'll want control back. He'll want to remind me who he is.
Let him try .
I'll be so Goddamn ready.
I sure didn't come here to bow, I came to break the fucking table.
At that thought I smirk to myself.
By the time I reach the 21st floor, my little mental victory parade has calmed, tucked neatly under the icy exterior I've perfected for years. The receptionist waves me through and I follow the directions I was given earlier until I find the office labeled Arnold Rivers -- Executive Director.
My new desk is right outside. Polished glass walls, minimal setup, but it has potential. I sure did have a better office back home, there's no way Lorenzo will believe I just came here to work.
Well too bad.
I drop my handbag onto the seat and start unpacking . Laptop. Planner. A silver pen my aunt once said could write ambition into existence. I'm halfway through arranging my things when a deep smooth voice interrupts me.
"Settling in well, I hope" I turn slightly, finding Arnold leaning against the doorway of my office, arms folded, a polite smile on his face.
"Yes, absolutely" , giving him my brightest smile.
He seems a little bit taken aback at my friendliness.
Trust men to think all hot women are mean.
He looks curiously at me, like I'm some case study. Trying hard not to roll my eyes here.
Looking at me intently he says "I do look forward to working with you."
"Likewise"
For a moment he just stares at me before finally saying "Good. You'll have a busy week ahead, but I figured you should at least know where the best coffee is hidden." He gestures for me to follow him.
I trail behind him as he walks with relaxed authority through the maze of offices and collaborative spaces.
He shows me around the staff kitchen, the staff lounge, even the rooftop terrace that only a few know about. Along the way, I manage to charm a few coworkers with my sharp wit and warm smile. Laughter bubbles around. Curious glances are exchanged. Whispers trail behind me like a perfume.
Back at the desk, Arnold leans on the edge, scanning me with amused eyes.
"She's pretty and charming too huh?" he says
"I get that a lot" I chuckle at his tone.
He smirks. "No wonder Lorenzo looked like he was ready to chew glass when I saw him earlier. What did you do?"
And just like that my smile slips, just had to mention his name, did ya.
I raise an eyebrow slipping into my seat. "Wouldn't you like to know?"
His laughter follows him as he turns to leave, he glances at me over his shoulders "I'll let you rest since it's your first day, but tomorrow I don't want you slacking. Have all the necessary documents on my table by morning." With that he steps back into his office shutting the door behind him.
So he can be a boss. Hmm.
I let out a breath, finally alone again. I didn't come to slack, but I didn't come to work either. Doesn't mean I can't be good at it.
I open my laptop seeing all the files I asked for and start to work my magic.
Why wait till tomorrow.
My mind drifts back to Lorenzo, my heart racing for some reason. I don't like Lorenzo, not one bit, all that beauty wasted on him.
I scoff. Douchebag
I know the kind of relationship he has with his mother. And if she wanted me to keep an eye on her golden boy, I'd do it with pleasure.
And maybe break him in the process.
Lorenzo thinks he's the storm, but I'm the lightning that'll split it right open.