Page 119 of The Boss Upstairs
Ethan giggles loudly. I love the sound of his laugh.
“So Patricia,” I start. “I wanted to talk to you about something.”
She turns to me, curious. “Yes?”
“I’ve kind of been seeing someone,” I tell her.
Her eyes widen. “Oh…”
I smile. “You look surprised.”
“I am,” she admits. “I thought you were too busy with work.”
“Well, that’s just it,” I go on. “I’m seeing my boss.”
“Your boss?”
“I know… it’s kind of crazy.”
She smiles. “Well, it’s not usually recommended, is it?”
“Nope… not usually,” I admit. “But since this is only a six month contract, I think we can get away with it. And so far, it hasn’t caused us any problems.”
“And your job is secure?” she asks, concerned.
“Yes, very. I signed an agreement.” I stifle a smile as I think about the contents of said agreement. If Patricia saw it, she’d probably be appalled beyond repair. If only she knew what I’ve been up to. Thank God she doesn’t.
“And he’s a good man?” she asks.
“Very.”
“Is he good to Ethan?”
“Yes. Very. Ethan loves him. We’re actually all going to the aquarium this Saturday.”
She strokes the top of Ethan’s head. “I’m happy for you,” she finally says. “I think it’s time for you to move on, Gretchen. Just be careful… take it slow. Your heart is still raw.”
My insides warm. I didn’t realize how much I craved her approval until now. And her advice is spot-on. “Thank you, Patricia.”
“Well, when do I get to meet this lovely man?”
I smile. “Soon. I’ll ask him to come over with me after work sometime.”
“Sounds like a plan,” she says. “I can’t wait.”
