Chapter 10 #2
I’m positive I had fallen asleep when, in my dream, I sighed and said, “If it were easy, you would have me.”
Because in my dream, he whispered as he brushed hair away from my face. “It’s only a matter of time until you’re mine.”
Monday morning, I’m sitting in Foster’s office for a catch-up on the latest for the team. He leans back in his chair with the Chicago skyline on full display. It’s a clear blue sky, but it still has the chill to the air that people from Illinois have learned to distinguish.
“We have only five of the 150 invoices still open, and I’m chasing them with claws. That’s a win considering last month we had nine,” I explain as I scan over my tablet.
“Measly numbers.”
I hum in doubt. “Except one of those invoices is from Everest, and they still owe us 1.2 million for the logistics of their plexiglass to Sweden. You’re going to have to speak to someone because they haven’t paid for their goods, yet they are on a freighter somewhere off the coast of Scotland right now.
Can’t exactly throw it all into the sea. ”
Foster blows out a breath. “Let me cross-department check what can be done. Anyhow, are you still sure that you don’t want to attend the conference out in Houston?”
He asked me a few months ago if I wanted to attend a conference for logistics companies. Every department is sending someone. “My answer is the same. I don’t want to leave Lola for more than a few days, and besides, there are people on the team who would relish the opportunity.”
Foster stands and turns to get a better view of the outside.
“You’re the manager. A bit more senior. Truthfully, the attendance would also boost your chance for another promotion.
If I can’t convince you with that, then I'm not sure what to do. I’m not the type to strong-arm you and say it’s a job requirement because I’m not that kind of man…
well, not today. I’ll move on from that topic. ”
“Thank you.”
“Getting all geared up for the monthlies?”
The one-on-ones with team members are meetings that I enjoy. A time to review things and check on improvement points. “Sure. I don’t mind them.”
“At least someone on this floor loves them.”
A knock on his office door draws our attention to see who it is.
Nerves kick in when it’s revealed to be Hayes.
My chest is pounding because I’m not sure what to expect.
This is the first time we’ve crossed paths professionally.
Sure, in the office building or that HR meeting, but not during the workday on our respective floors.
Hayes, in a gray three-piece suit, is not good for humanity; it weakens us all. Or just me.
His eyes hold mine for a mere second longer than needed before he shoots his gaze to Foster. “We have that meeting in ten, want me to come back?”
“Nah, it’s okay.” Foster waves me off. “Elodie and I were just finishing.” He grabs his phone off his desk and begins to walk toward the door, and I stand as well. “Just give me three. I’m starving, and somebody brought Polish pastries in today.”
“Doesn’t your assistant bring you that stuff?” Hayes asks, bemused.
“Normally, but she’s away sick for the day. Another reason that I deserve the extra carbs. I don’t have someone to organize me,” Foster complains as he leaves his office, not taking much notice of who he left behind.
I’m relieved that Foster continued on as though the company’s most awkward pair isn’t taking up residence in his office. But we’re all professionals, right?
Except Hayes is now staring at me, giving me the predatory once-over that heats up my middle and brings pain to my clit. He takes a few steps farther into the room. The charcoal of his suit makes his eyes extra intense, deep as a sea.
“Elodie,” he states.
“Yes?”
The corner of his mouth twitches. Does he take pleasure in this run-in? I want to keep our work and personal lives separate.
“There are drinks later. Leadership, perhaps, a representative from every department. I’m looking into some expansion projects and need insight from everyone.
I prefer to get out of the office to have a more open conversation.
The sitter is already taken care of. Meet me downstairs at a quarter to six and we can ride together, that would be grand. ” He's being cocky.
Wait, what? I flutter my eyes, trying to comprehend what he just said. “Excuse me?”
“You heard me. Drinks, be on time.” He stuffs his hands into his pockets as he towers over me.
“Why isn’t it a question?”
“Because it’s not. I already arranged the usual sitter for Lola.”
My jaw drops. “You what?”
He remains cool as a cucumber. “I know. I thought through all of the logistics, didn’t I?” He’s boldly proud.
“You can’t just order me to go with you.” I step closer to him, wanting to stand off.
“It’s work.”
Shaking my head, I’m going in all directions. “Still, everyone in the office will form theories about us.”
“Why? We’re just two professionals.” His face remains stoic.
Remembering that I still have a job to do, yet our lives are entwined, I’m wrestling with myself about how to swallow the connection to remain professional. “Fine,” I bite out.
Our attention flies to Foster, who returns with a napkin and a powdered pastry. His eyes travel between us. “Thought I could avoid this with you two, but I guess not,” he casually mentions before he bites into his food and proceeds to head to his desk. At least, he doesn’t appear too fazed.
“I was just leaving.” I begin to walk away, but Hayes gently stops me by touching my elbow.
“Just remember, Elodie. It’s only a matter of time,” Hayes mentions.
Instantly, my eyes blaze open, and my lips part from shock.
Damn it, I wasn’t dreaming.
Which also means he heard me.
Ignoring him and straightening my shoulders, I choose not to reply, and I leave.
I’m slightly riled when I get to my desk.
Blair appears the moment I manage to sit behind my desk.
“What’s up with you and Hayes Callahan? I was on my way back from the restroom, and I saw you both.” I’m not sure if she wants intel or is genuinely curious. I’m choosing option one.
I fix a smile. “Nothing. He had a meeting with Foster and asked about which floor has the best coffee,” I lied.
Lines form on her forehead, as it isn’t the answer she was expecting. “Wow, he can be pleasant. I’ve been hearing from people that he’s a little scary.”
Yeah, I know.
“Yeah? Is that what’s on the grapevine?”
She nods. “People on his floor find him a little intense, but somebody else said he just has a steely exterior and is actually a nice guy. Just, well, don’t give him subpar work, otherwise he will let you know.”
“That’s what people are saying?”
“Yep. See ya later.” She walks away.
Quickly, I unlock my computer screen and check my phone next to my keyboard. I notice a new email from the preschool.
Opening it, it takes one word to see that Lola now has a spot at the best preschool.
Made possible by Mr. Demanding Drinks himself.
I’m not even going to complain because it’s all for our daughter.
It’s also a reminder of how much he wants to provide and care for her.
But I mentioned the school very briefly, and less than forty-eight hours later, he made magic happen.
It probably only took one call. Hayes always gets what he wants.
And I want to feel what it’s like on the other end when he finally has his win.
Me.