Page 89 of The Boss and the Wedding Mess

"I'm not approaching you entirely without ulterior motives," he says.

“I figured as much,” I reply. Hopefully he’s not about to try and sell me bodyguards. I’ve never needed them, not even back in the States.

“How satisfied are you with London Waverley?” I’m genuinely taken aback when he mentions her name.

“Why do you ask?” I ask.

Why is he of all people bringing up London?

"Because she applied for a position with me." He laughs and adds, “Judging from the look on your face, you didn’t know that.”

“She’s my PA,” I answer curtly, buying myself some time to think. “When did she apply? She’s still in her probation period.”

“She worked for your father for three years before that, didn’t she?”

“Correct. But after the change in ownership, she signed a new contract.”

“Doesn’t sound too good. So, your father wasn’t happy with her?”

“Not at all. She’s outstanding.”

“And yet she applied to me two weeks ago.”

Two weeks ago? That must’ve been the very evening we were at the boxing club.

“I like her. I wouldn’t mind having an attractive assistant at my side, who serves me in all aspects of life. She's surely open for that, isn't she?"

“She’ll soon be getting a permanent contract with a raise, since I have no intention of letting her go.”

“She seemed very serious about her application, and she didn’t strike me as someone who wants to stay with you.”

I don't like this.

“I’ll talk to her.”

"Not a good idea. You surely know that everything discussed here in the club must remain between us?" He smiles mysteriously.

"So, you only approached me to tell me that I've lost her?"

He smiles coldly and then stands up.

“Here’s a small olive branch: I’ll be interviewing her next Friday. You can sit in.”

I rise as well.

“And why would I do that?”

"I work with many entrepreneurs whom I bring in as advisors for important conversations. And someone with your experience could certainly be useful to me in figuring out how serious she is about the new job."

My brow furrows. What the hell is this guy up to?

"This is a purely friendly offer. I could’ve kept it to myself, but I think we men need to stick together.” He chuckles and clinks his glass against mine. “Besides, I saw your face. You’re jealous. So, she means something to you.” He hands me his card. “Reach out Friday. I’ll give you the time and place I’m meeting her.”

Before I can respond, he walks away and leaves me standing there. But even if he had stayed, I wouldn’t know what to say.

A truly lucrative tempting offer. But that’s how it is when you deal with the devil—his offers are always enticing. The price you end up paying for your greed, though, may be far too high.

That evening, I use my father’s limo service since I’ve had one too many whiskeys and don’t trust myself to drive. The soundproof partition is up, so the driver can’t overhear while I talk to Marc on the phone.