Chapter 5

Noticing I didn't say anything, Kenelm said, "Finish up the proposal, and I'll come pick you up."

Kenelm was there in no time.

In the study, he flipped through the papers, taking his time.

"Charlotte, did you pull some strings to get into Hayes Group?" Kenelm asked.

My anger flared up instantly. "Kenelm, I know I'm not as sharp as you, but I got into Hayes Group fair and square," I shot back.

Kenelm tapped my hand with his pen. "Come over and listen up. Let me show you where you messed up."

Kenelm broke down my proposal effortlessly. He roasted me without mercy, like I was a rookie who had no clue.

But I had to admit, every point he made was spot on.

Finally, Kenelm said, "Charlotte, I've looked over your performance. Among everyone who started with you, you really stand out."

I leaned against his desk, flashed him a smile, and said, "Thanks."

Kenelm gave me some solid advice on my proposal, and his guidance made all the difference.

Everything was handled perfectly.

I met up with Blanche at an old-school restaurant and we had a good drink together.

She asked, "Are you and Alexander really done for good?"

"Yeah, we had breakup sex, and that was it. Haven't talked since," I replied.

"Too bad," Blanche said.

I gave Blanche's cheek a playful pinch. "What's so special about that?"

"Do you even realize how many girls would love to snag a guy like him?" Blanche teased.

"Guys like him are just good for a quick fling. I wouldn't even bring him home. He's way too sleazy," I shot back.

I took a big gulp of my drink.

Blanche shrugged. "True that. Let me set you up with someone even better."

Kenelm's image flashed through my mind.

He was at his desk, sleeves rolled up, glasses resting on his prominent nose, those long fingers slowly tracing across the papers.

I'd overheard the women at the office gossiping about him.

"Mr. Eland is full of surprises. One time, I accidentally walked in on him changing in the break room.

"Oh my god, his body is insane, even better than Mr. Hayes. His suit pants were a little tight that day, and let me tell you, he's packing."

"They say older guys know how to treat a woman right. I wonder what Mr. Eland is like in bed?"

Suddenly, I got turned on. This guy? I wanted him in my bed.

I tapped Blanche's hand and teased, "I've got my sights set on someone even better lately. I totally want to sleep with him, but I'm gonna take my time."

"Who is it? Come on, tell me," Blanche urged.

I was just about to answer, but then I couldn't help noticing how familiar the people at the next table looked.

Until Alexander and I caught each other's gaze.

Blanche made an excuse about needing the restroom and headed to the entrance to wait for me.

Alexander clamped my chin hard. "Charlotte, you think I'm dirty?

"When we were together, wasn't it you who made the first move?

"Were you just messing with me?"

I shook myself free and rubbed my aching cheek.

His jaw was clenched so tight, I could see the tension. He said coldly, "You just said you want to sleep with someone.

"Who is it? That punk from the bar the other night?"

Then it hit me. He was my boss. I forced down my anger and picked my words with care.

I said calmly, "Alexander, when exactly were we ever a thing?

"To everyone else, I was just your loyal puppy for six years, chasing after you nonstop.

"No matter how you played around, I never said a word. As your side piece, I think I went above and beyond, don't you think?"

Alexander scoffed, a sneer twisting his lips. "Wow, you really gave it your all as a fuck buddy, huh? Not bad, Charlotte.

"But don't forget. It was me who slept with you for six years. I got sick of you ages ago and tossed you aside!"

Alexander kicked over his chair and stormed out without looking back.

I just didn't get it. Alexander was always the one bragging about being a player.

Now that we'd split, he was the one throwing a fit.

After that day, Alexander acted like I didn't even exist at the office. I actually felt relieved.

Kenelm and I didn't start work at the same time. But we usually finished up around the same hour.

So, for the fifth time, I found myself stuck in the parking garage because someone blocked my car again.

Kenelm pulled up and, as usual, walked over to me. "Need a hand this time, or are you good?" he asked.

I shook my head. "It's fine, Mr. Eland. Don't let me hold you up after work."

Kenelm got out of his car. "Just call a tow truck tomorrow," he said casually.

I teased, "Tomorrow? So what am I supposed to do tonight?"

"I'll take you home," Kenelm said.

But I just stood there. "I have work tomorrow, and I start an hour before you," I said.

Kenelm was already holding the passenger door open for me.