Page 78 of Wicked Takeover
It was time for her to get on with her life. He couldn’t ask her to stay, even though he wanted that. It wouldn’t be fair. He’d be feeding his needy soul and neglecting her happiness. How long would a relationship like that last? Was it possible for them to have one after she left? He wasn’t certain she’d want to date him, hang out, or anything else.
Even if she did, she might go along with his plan for a while but would eventually turn him down to be with another guy at her new job.
His gut twisted.
She and that other man would bond at work. They might play adult games after hours. He’d tell her not to wear panties and to always be wet for him or there’d be hell to pay. He’d paddle Lauren in her new office, the ladies’ or men’s room before the other staff arrived, the break room, the stairwell, every-fucking-where.
Dante tightened his fists. He had to stop dwelling on this crap. He should go back to his station to do the endless paperwork but couldn’t until Lauren pulled away.
She still hadn’t.
He willed her to move.
At this point, she’d have to hustle unless her appointment was on this street. If she didn’t start her car soon and put on her air conditioner, she’d probably pass out from the heat. Could be her face had already turned red.
He craned his neck.
Jasmina joined him at the window. “What are you doing?”
Grieving and behaving like a fool.Dante rubbed his shoulder. “Nothing.”
She looked where he had. Her eyes nearly popped out. “Wow. Lauren’s still here? Shouldn’t she be at her appointment by now? Is she having car trouble?” Jasmina elbowed him. “Go out there and help her.”
The help Dante had in mind wouldn’t get Lauren to her interview. He’d offer to split his salary with her and throw in his pickup so she’d stay at Wicked Brand, which was insane.
“Wait.” Jasmina grabbed his arm, even though he hadn’t budged. “She just started her car. She’s pulling out of her spot. Whoa, thank goodness.” She squeezed his wrist. “She’s on her way.”
She was leaving. One day soon, she wouldn’t be coming back.
…
On the drive to her appointment, Lauren tried to cheer up. If by some miracle she got the job, it didn’t mean she was going to another planet. She’d still be in the area, not far from Wicked Brand.
If Dante didn’t mind altering his schedule, they could have lunch once a week. After the parlor closed for the night, they could get together. Sure, it’d be late, but she’d take a nap after work in order to be fresh for him. On the weekends, they could stay in bed, snuggle and have fun, maybe even fall in love—unless he had to work, which he usually did. The parlor was busiest on Saturdays and Sundays. That wasn’t likely to change once it got a new owner.
She drooped but wasn’t ready to give up. Even if they had hurdles to overcome, getting together could be doable if they wanted that. It might even be fun…until it became a huge hassle and he drifted away, which any sensible guy would do. Too many other women were prettier than she was, had better bodies, and worked hours that would accommodate his.
Her chest tightened so much it hurt. Ignoring the pain, she reached the building where she’d interview. The last time she’d been here, there had been five other applicants vying for the same position. To her surprise, the lobby was empty today except for the receptionist.
Lauren introduced herself.
The young woman offered a welcoming smile. “Please have a seat. I’ll tell Ms. Ivers you’re here.”
Within seconds, Karen stepped from a side office. Dressed impeccably, she looked like she ruled the world despite being no more than thirty-five. She offered a warm smile that enhanced her natural good looks and put out her hand. “Lauren. So good to see you again. I’m truly glad you could make it.”
Although Lauren should have expected Karen’s enthusiasm, given her previous emails, such warmth floored her. She’d grown accustomed to third-degree interviews and snarky comments about being unemployed. She began to relax and embrace hope. If she could actually get this great job after repeated rejection, maybe she and Dante could work things out. Someday, he might even feel about her as she did him. Anything was possible, right?
“Please come in.” Karen ushered her into the conference room. Two staff members waited, one male, one female, both middle age. They, like Karen and the receptionist, gave her friendly smiles.
Buoyed, she fairly danced inside.
After introductions were finished, Karen spoke first. “We’re very excited about this new opportunity, Lauren.”
Her pulse quickened. She nodded.
“It involves taking over a new division.” Karen tapped papers in front of her. “We’ve acquired another company and need a solid professional to make certain everything runs smoothly.”
No way would Lauren argue. “Of course.”
