Chapter 8
It's been two weeks since I started working as Mr. Alexander's assistant. I have to admit, I'm loving the job—not to mention the salary, which is more than I was making at both my previous jobs combined.
Elena's treatment is going well—she's down to chemotherapy just once a week now. She also gets regular lab tests to monitor her health, since she's still just a child.
Regardless, I've decided to set aside some money in case the transplant becomes necessary, so I'm not caught off guard. That's why I still work some nights at the club as a dancer.
Not to mention that private dances pay way more than performing on stage, and those are the ones I prefer.
Yesterday I danced for some lunatic who ripped off my mask.
He just lunged at me so suddenly I didn't have time to back away.
I don't do extras—I made that clear from day one, and clients are warned. But some of them don't seem to get it.
Before I knew it, the bastard was attacking me. Luckily, there's a security guard stationed outside the door. If any client crosses the line—like this guy did—he comes in right away.
If I said I was used to these incidents, I'd be lying. I've been harassed there multiple times—thank God for the security guards who protect me. I'd really like to quit, and I plan to as soon as my sister gets better.
Her expenses are high—the medications and some tests all have to be paid out of pocket. Mr. Julio and his wife help me out, which has been a lifesaver. When I can't make it, they're the ones who take Elena to chemotherapy. I'll be forever grateful to them for everything.
I've made two friends here at the company, Sarah and Victoria. They really took me under their wing when I started. We always have lunch together. I was pretty lost when I first joined, and they gave me all the support I needed—including warning me about my dear boss and what a player he is.
So far, he's treated me with a lot of respect. I think it's because of the age difference. And also because I'm very serious around him, always keeping things professional so there's no confusion.
I'm lost in thought, staring at my computer. I got out of class early and came straight to work. I took the chance to call and check on Elena—she's been eating better lately, which makes me really happy.
I jump when someone suddenly coughs near me. I was so focused on some spot on my screen, lost in thoughts about how my life has turned out, that I didn't notice Mr. Alexander had arrived and was standing right beside me.
I looked up. At six foot three, he towered over me, especially with me sitting down. He flashed me that sarcastic smile of his—the one I've gotten used to by now—and said:
“Thinking about your boyfriend, miss?”
“I don't have a boyfr…” I catch myself mid-sentence. Why am I even telling him this? I shake my head and try again. “Just some things on my mind, nothing major.”
“Well, if you need anything, feel free to tell me. I like to maintain a good relationship with my employees.”
“It's nothing major, but thank you anyway! If you'd like to get settled, I'll bring in your schedule.”
He turns and walks to his office. Yeah, right—like I'm going to share my problems with him, especially after finding out about his reputation. I want to keep my distance! I grab my tablet and head to his office. The door is open, but I knock anyway before entering and closing it behind me.
“So, what do we have for today? Any meetings or contracts to sign?”
“One meeting here to sign a contract—it's already printed and in your email for review. Also, a client had a problem with his flight and won't make it to the office in time, so he asked me to book a restaurant for the discussion and contract renewal. I've already arranged everything!”
“And this can't wait until tomorrow?”
“He has to fly back to his country today. I just did what he asked. I'm sorry I didn't check with you first about your schedule, but since he's one of our best clients…”
“You did the right thing. Even if I had other plans, I wouldn't miss this. Victor is a longtime client and a friend—one of our best investors. We can't disappoint him.”
“Of course! Well… he's bringing a friend who's interested in making some investments. So I put together a company portfolio—that way he can learn about us and get any questions answered.”
“Excellent work! I hadn't thought of that—it's a great way to present ourselves to a new client.”
“That's what I figured. Since I couldn't find any existing ones, I made it myself—it's also in your email for approval. I'll let you read the contract in peace. The client will be here soon.”
I turn to leave, but my boss stops me:
“I need you to come with me to this dinner tonight. I know it's past your normal hours, but I promise you'll be well compensated.”
I'm already imagining how much I'll make from this overtime, but then I realize I don't have anything appropriate to wear. He must read my mind, because he continues:
“Don't worry about the outfit—I'll have some dresses sent over for you to choose from. And don't worry about the cost. I'll cover it.”
I stare at him, stunned, and he flashes that damn smirk, those full lips curving and… Wait. What am I thinking?
“Thank you, sir. If there's nothing else, I'll go get ready.”
“You may go. Our client will be here shortly. Prepare the conference room—I'll meet with him there today.”
“Okay.”
I finally leave and close the door behind me.
What I never thought could happen is actually happening—I'm having sinful thoughts about my boss.
Fuck! But can you blame me when he's that hot, with that gorgeous mouth, especially when he flashes that cocky little smirk? It's sinful just imagining it...
I smack myself on the head and focus on my work.