Kazimir
I got you a few things. By eight o’clock, it was clear I was going to be stuck at the restaurant for a while. I took a break from the CSI:NY episode I found myself trapped in, ran to a florist, and got you something for your desk. The vibrant colors remind me of your personality.
Kazimir
This morning, I went for a run—I needed to be outside. On the way back, I bought muffins. Since I didn’t know your favorite flavor, I got you the bestsellers.
Kazimir
Cressida Paddleford is the office manager. Except for my executive assistant—and now you—she’s the buffer between me and the rest of the staff. She’ll show you around.
Kazimir
Have a great first day at work. I have no doubt you’ll dazzle everyone at the office. Catch you later.
‘The vibrant colors remind me of your personality.’
I’m grinning like a fool.
You can buy orchids at any bodega in New York. If your heart is set on the pricey Dick Smith ‘Paradise’ orchid, you’ll have to go to a florist that sells this rare gem.
“Ready?”
My eyes bounce up to meet Cressida’s. “Ready.”
Chapter 38
Must not stab your co-worker
Harley
After meeting my teammates, signing a pile of papers at HR, internally freaking out about how much money Kaz is willing to pay me for this position, and touring Lindström Artisanal Brewery Co, located in an adjacent building to the HQ, I’m in the kitchen waiting for the fancy-schmancy espresso machine to drop the nectar of the gods into my mug. A latte to accompany the muffin Kaz bought me is the perfect way to kick off the day.
I inhale the French vanilla scent and close my eyes on a prayer.
As I count the seconds until the magic happens, I smooth down my blush-coloured cap-sleeve dress. Everyone in the office is decked out in black or navy, so I stand out in my light-colored outfit.
Oh, well.
I selected an outfit that screamed late spring. I don’t mind black, but there are so many other colors, which is a concept so foreign to most New Yorkers.
The coffee bubbles into my cup.
I grab my mug, pour some sugar in it, stir, and take a long-awaited sip.
This is amazing coffee.
“Hey, how was your meeting?” My ears perk up at a man’s voice outside the kitchen.
“Not only did it drag on, but they didn’t even have the decency of serving good coffee,” a woman says. “Don’t get me started on those monster bagels. I don’t need an injection of five thousand calories first thing in the morning.”
It must be the two supply coordinators I didn’t meet yet.
I turn around, clutching my mug.
A tall, slim woman and a man who towers over her appear at the threshold, their steps halting when they see me.
The woman’s strong fruity perfume overpowers the lovely aroma of my coffee.
