I’m walking outside, trying to brace myself for whatever Chance throws at me. Even if it’s a punch. I don’t know why my body is reacting this way. Maybe it’s because his anger has me on edge, making me think of my time with Pearce.
“Earth to Alexa?” Chance says as he looks at me with a mixture of anger and confusion. “Hello!!! Alexa, are you going to tell me what the hell is going on?” For a moment I think he knows, but he continues. “Did you know about this job offer from my dad?” Sighing, I’m relieved I don’t have to explain my uneasiness or my personal life... he’s still talking about this job.
“Your sister did briefly mention the job opening, and I told her I would think about it.” I’m lying because I knew nothing about this offer. “I intended to apply like everyone else.”
“How noble of you to apply like everyone else. I definitely would love to go over one of your proposals, but the job posting has closed. You know I’d never hire you, anyway.”
That statement only pisses me off. “Your father’s still in charge last I checked. I just may take him up on his offer.” I shoot back without thinking about it.
“I make the decisions around here now sweetheart, and we both know you don’t have what it takes to work under me, anyway.” Chance goes from annoyed to full-on grinning, thinking he’s got me flustered.
“Well, I certainly don’t have a double d cup or bottled blonde hair, if those are requirements toworkunder you. But we both know I’m more than qualified for any position in your little company. If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to order a round of drinks to celebrate my new job.”Satisfied with myself. I push past him and head back into the restaurant with a beaming smile, leaving Chance stock still and fuming on the sidewalk.
My victory is short-lived when I realize what I’ve just committed to for the sake of besting Chance. I had not only committed to staying, but I also declared that I would take the job at Sullivan Work Group and ultimately work for Chance. I mean, of course I don’t have to follow through with my statement, but his reaction was just too priceless not to. After that realization, I come down from my celebratory high. And Chance comes back to the table eerily calm, telling me he’ll see me on Monday, right before he proceeds to ignore me and talk to Madison for the rest of the night.
Alex
By the timeMonday morning rolls around, my stomach is in knots and I’m realizing the weekend felt entirely too short.I’d managed to visit Chance and Cacey’s dad, get some work clothes, and a gently used Honda Accord, all on Sunday. I can’t help but laugh as I remember the look of horror on Cacey's face when she took in my standard black pantsuit, white blouse, and flats.
“Oh God, you’re not wearing that, are you?”
“Yes, I most certainly am. You’ve dropped me in the lion’s den by forcing me to work with your brother. At least I’ll be comfortable doing so. Worst case, I’ll be able to make a run for it if needed,” I say, somewhat jokingly.
“You forgot your other option.” She says with a secret smile.
“What would that be?”
“You always catch more bears with honey… or whatever that saying is. Use what you got, girl!”
“You can’t be serious, that’s not my style. Who am I supposed to becatchinganyway? Chance? Please. I think you’re going off the rails a bit, if you think Chance wants to be caught by me. Or that I would even do something so ridiculous.”
“You’d be surprised.”
Cacey is smiling like she just let me in on the best secret in the world and I stare at her, waiting for the punch line.
You’d be surprised.
You’d be surprised.
You’d be surprised.
Those three words bounce around in my head all morning. Now here I am, feeling as anxious as a teenage girl. Luckily, I win the battle of the suits, but the wins stop there. I’m donning my trusty pantsuit and one of Cacey’s slimmer cut button-up shirts. It’s buttoned just enough to cover my breast and I have enough accessories to thoroughly distract a newborn for hours. Let's not forget the shoes. I also lost that battle. I look down at the 6-inch heels I now have on and want to cry. But those are the concessions I make to keep the suit and the flats I sneak into my bag before I head out the door.
When I arrive to work, I’m greeted by Cacey’s dad. Apparently, his presence is a shock to everyone as they all look on as if we both were touring the building naked.
“Alexa, I’m so glad you took me up on my offer. You’ve been sorely missed and since Cacey has unofficially opted out of the family business, someone’s needed to balance Chance out. You know I’ve always considered you part of the family.” I smile at his words. Mr. Sullivan has always been a constant in my life and nothing but supportive. I’m grateful but at the same time envious of what Cacey and Chance have with him.
“Thanks for the support, Mr. Sullivan. I really appreciate you doing this for me. I just don’t think everyone will be as welcoming as you.”
“Lucky for you, my opinion is the only one that matters,” he says with a bit of humor in his voice.
“I think Chance would beg to differ.”
“When my son stops sulking, he’ll see what an asset you are to the company, and this family.”
“I wouldn’t hold my breath, Alexa.” Chance says, as he breaks into the conversation appearing out of nowhere. He then turns to Mr. Sullivan with a petulant look on his face. “Dad, I didn’t expect to see you here today.” He’s playing coy. He knew his dad was here to make sure everything went smoothly with my transition into the company, and he hated it.
“I have an announcement to make.” Mr. Sullivan says, justifying his visit.
