Page 32 of Consumed By You

“Yes.”

“Why?” He sets his laptop next to him and focuses his attention solely on me. I gulp, knowing he’s not going to like what I have to say.

“I don’t want to work in a place that you are at.”

His lips press into a tight, disapproving line and he nods. “Are you trying to make me upset, Darcy?”

“No, I’m telling you the truth. Being bluntly honest. As you said before, you liked that about me.”

“Yeah, well, not when you’re being irrational. I’m offering you a better opportunity than any other place is going to give you.”

“I know that, Benjamin.”

“Then why turn it down? Are you really that pissed with me?”

I look away, not wanting to rehash my growing feelings for him.

“Look, Darcy, it’s not that I don’t want a relationship with you. I just can’t, with anyone. I don’t believe in monogamy. It doesn’t work. My mom had an affair on my father for years and when he found out, it destroyed our family. I will not be like them.” He leans back, running his hand over his face as if trying to forget bad memories.

I try to figure out the best way to answer him without upsetting him. “There are couples that have stayed together all their lives and never cheated on the other. Itdoesexist.”

“I just don’t think relationships are in the cards for me. I’m sorry.” He picks up his laptop. “Please, just think about the offer. I’d feel much better knowing you’re not leaving this job with no source of income.”

I shut my computer and stand up, needing to start getting ready for the fundraiser. “You know, Ben, if you keep locking yourself away, sooner or later, no one is going to be able to find you.”

***

I open the wardrobe and sort through the dresses Benjamin has so generously provided. How did he even know my size? I wonder if he bought them himself or if someone else was drafted to do it.

Dimitri maybe…I doubt it was Ben.

I end up choosing a black Zac Posen gown that snugly hugs my every curve before flowing gracefully to the ground. It’s one of the most beautiful dresses I’ve ever seen. I feel unusually sexy in it, and a small part of me hopes Benjamin thinks I’m sexy in it too.

I style my long raven-colored hair in a bun with loose tendrils and decide on a daring smoky eye. By the time I apply my red lipstick, it’s time to go. Right on time.

Grabbing my clutch, I open the door and head into the living room to search for my furtive boss. I stop in my tracks when I find him leaning against the counter on his phone. He’s in a custom-fitted black tuxedo, and his long hair is pulled back from his enchanting eyes. He looks so elegant and sophisticated…and heart-stoppingly beautiful.

“I’ll be there in twenty.” He hangs up and stares at me so long I start to feel uncomfortable.

“Is there something wrong? Is this one bad?” I ask, looking down, unable to decipher his poker face.

“N-No. No, that one’s fine. Come.”

Did he juststutter?

***

“I know you’ve given me your resignation, but you aren’t to say that to anyone tonight, you understand?”

“I won’t,” I vow, forcing myself to focus on the passing buildings outside the window.

“Would you like some champagne?”

“We’re allowed to drink on the job?”

He chuckles. “You helped create this night. Now enjoy it.”

“Sure, then. Thank you.” He pops open an expensive-looking bottle and proceeds to pour the contents into two thin flasks.