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It was what Michelle expected, and Taylor had gone along with it,

just to get Michelle out of there faster, but also to make things easy for

Christina. Taylor didn’t want to make a bad impression and have Christina

pay the price for it later.

“All the journalists that are here,” Michelle went on. “It’s excellent.

You did a great job, Christina. Taylor too, of course.”

“Thanks.” Taylor managed to get that out without an epic helping of

sarcasm.

“All the little dogs and stuff. People are going to eat it up. It was a

great idea. Great execution. The building is gorgeous. All that hard work

definitely paid off. I know that this is one that is going to get a massive

return on our investment. Christina has great instincts.”

Christina stood woodenly off to the side. She was so uncomfortable

that it was painful. Taylor might not have noticed before, since Christina hid

it well behind a passive expression, but now that she knew her better, it was

more than obvious. Michelle either didn’t see it or didn’t care.

“Well, now that this is wrapped up, I’ll see you back at the office?”

Michelle asked. She didn’t give Christina a chance to answer. “I have a

whole week booked solid for you. All brand-new ideas that you can work

your magic on.” Michelle hefted her handbag further up her arm, gave

Taylor a big smile, then turned and walked through the back door. Taylor

had no idea how Michelle knew she could get out that way. She must have

had some sixth sense for giving orders and escaping.

“Sorry about that,” Christina mumbled.

“It’s not your fault! My goodness, all you’ve done is work your butt

off, side by side with me for weeks. You probably put in so many hours

outside of this place that you don’t tell me about. You were the reason this

is even a reality today. You pitched my idea. You made people listen. You

walked through it all, step by step with me. You singlehandedly were

responsible for the marketing. You did an amazing job. I seriously wouldn’t