Page 32 of The Christmas Trap

She thinks through the ramifications of what I said. "He influences the decisions you make?"

"He does. And he’s not subtle about it. He claims to have taken a back seat since he was diagnosed with the big C a few years ago. What that translates to is my keeping him abreast of the happenings in the company."

"Hence, the in-person meeting with him?”

She has access to my calendar, so she’s aware of that.

I drum my fingers on the seat. "It would serve his health better if he weren't involved with the day-to-day, but he’s been involved with the company for over fifty years. His habits are not going to change overnight."

I notice her staring at me and arch an eyebrow. “What?”

“Nothing.” She shakes her head.

“Go on, hit me.” I lean back in the seat.

She hesitates then gives in, “I suppose, I’m surprised by your understanding and patience with your grandfather.”

“You mean, especially because I’ve been so erratic with you?” I smirk.

“Umm, that’s not what I meant.”

“You implied it.”

She seems horrified. “I didn’t, really?—”

I hold up my hand. “Relax, I owe you an apology for making your start so challenging. I was testing you.”

She doesn’t seem surprised. “You were putting me through my paces, until I proved myself.” A shrewd look comes into her eyes. “What’s the verdict?”

It’s my turn to fix her with a hard stare. “The jury’s still out.”

She scowls.

“But—”

“But?” she asks cautiously.

“But I think you’ve handled the challenges that’ve come your way admirably.”

I didn’t intend to say that. But instinct had me praise her without thinking.A first for someone who thrives on control.And the flush of pleasure on her features is more than satisfying. It ignites that part deep inside of me. The part I prefer to keep hidden at work. The part which gets satisfaction from rewarding someone for putting theirtrust in me. Damn. When it comes to my EA, my personal life is encroaching into the professional. Another first.

But it’s worth it. For my words seem to put her more at ease.

“And is this part of the test?” She inclines her head.

“You mean, meeting Arthur?” I sigh and run my fingers under my collar. I don’t mind wearing a tie, but by the end of the day, I’m itching to take it off. “Yeah, every meeting with him is a test, for me.”

“Even though he’s your grandfather?”

“Especially, because he’s my grandfather. Canny goat wants to be sure I won’t fail him.”

There’s a considering look in her eyes. “He must trust you, given he asked you to take care of his dog while he was away.”

“He does.” I let my features soften. “Arthur has a soft spot for the damn pooch.”

She gives me an amused look. “He’s not the only one.”

“Yeah.” The back of my neck heats a little. “Tiny has a personality all his own.” I shrug. “It's difficult to make him do anything he doesn’t want to. He seems to believe he knows best. He’s a lot like Arthur in that way. Imelda, his partner, is the only one who can make the old man unbend a little. Especially since he’s an ace at saddling the rest of us with asks we’re unable to refuse."