Page 28 of Obey

“I'm actually on break.”

Nate's expression didn't change. “Then perhaps you should use that time to review the reports you haven't submitted. Performance evaluations are in two weeks, and I'd hate for your lack of preparation to become a topic of discussion.”

Barry glanced at me for backup and I decide to spare him… even if he did slightly deserve it.

“Anyway,” I said, stepping around Barry and grabbing Nate's arm, “Have a good day, Barry.”

I steered Nate toward the private elevators. “Are you insane?”

“You entertained him for far too long.”

“I rejected him.”

“After fifteen minutes.”

I stopped walking. “Did you time it?”

His silence was answer enough.

“Oh, my God. You actually did.”

“Sloane.”

“Were you lurking somewhere waiting for your dramatic entrance?”

His jaw flexed. “Get in the elevator.”

“Don't think you're going to distract me with that bossy voice.”

“Sloane.”

“What?”

“Elevator. Now.”

I should've walked away. I had a perfectly functioning pair of legs and absolutely no reason to entertain whatever ridiculous mood had possessed Nathaniel Blackwell. Instead, I stepped inside.

He followed, pressed the button for the executive floor, and stood beside me in silence.

For approximately three seconds.

“You entertained him for far too long.”

I turned toward him. “Excuse me?”

“Fifteen minutes, Sloane.”

“First of all, stop saying fifteen minutes like I was timing a damn date. He cornered me while I was waiting for the elevator.”

“You could've used the private one.”

“And he could've accepted the first no. What's your point?”

“My point is that you shouldn't have to waste your time entertaining men like that.”

“Oh, that's rich coming from you.”

His head turned. “Meaning?”