Chapter 8
“Are you upset that I hired someone to replace you?” His deep, rich voice was always pleasant to hear.
This gentle inquiry made my heart itch with longing.
My defenses suddenly crumbled, and my voice took on a slightly nasal tone of hurt.
“I admit I was a bit angry, but that’s my problem.”
“No,” he interrupted me.
“It’s not your problem. My poor communication misled you.
“I was just worried about your health. You’re too thin, pushing yourself too hard.” “Hmm?”
I was confused.
Reed seemed very different from before.
He’d always been like a machine, unable to tolerate errors, showing no mercy. He would fire staff who’d been with him for years without blinking, all for a small mistake.
But just now, he seemed to be telling me that he was in the wrong.
I sniffled, glancing at the tissues on his desk, but ultimately chose to wipe my tears with the back of my hand.
He stepped forward quickly, using his fingertips to brush the tears from my cheek. His other hand grasped my wrist that hung in mid–air.
His warm palm covered my wildly racing pulse.
We both stood there awkwardly, like outsiders to this impulsive situation, staring into each other’s eyes.
I was the first to retreat, stepping back.
My stiletto heel caught conveniently on the carpet.
His hand slid to my waist, gently pulling me toward him.
Instinctively, I pressed my palms against his chest to steady myself.
That unreachable scent that was uniquely his exploded at the tip of my nose.
As I looked up, he couldn’t hold back anymore. His eyes clouded with desire as he lowered his head and crashed his lips onto mine.
1/2
I held my breath, summoning all my strength to regain my senses and push him.
away.
“Mr. Harlow, please control yourself.
“I have a boyfriend.”
