“Why does Mac want to seeyou?”
It’s none of Spencer’s business. “I don’t know.”
“Please brief me on your meeting when you return from lunch.”
“Sure thing, Spencer.” No way am I briefing him on anything, especially since it means I’ll have to speak with him alone.
I race to the elevator and press the up button. I sense him before he speaks. When he moves in closer, I do my best to step away, but I’m between Spencer and the elevator doors. Ugh. The hair on the back of my neck is on end. I donotlike this man.
“On second thought, perhaps I should join you.”
“Um.” The elevator dings, and the doors open. I don’t finish my sentence because why bother? Spencer has made his decision. Stepping off onto the floor that houses all the bigwigs in the company, I make my way to Sheila’s desk. She smiles brightly until she sees my shadow. “Oh, Spencer. What can I do for you today?”
“I thought I should accompany Willamina to her meeting with Mac.”
“That won’t be necessary, Spencer.”
“I believe itisnecessary.”
Sheila sighs. “Suit yourself.”
“I will.”
I’m about to take a seat near the wall when Mr. McAllister’s door opens. He’s got a huge smile on his face, and it’s directed at me. “Willa. Welcome.”
He’s never once addressed me as Willa. As with Spencer, I’m always Willamina to him. I move toward the door when Spencer steps in front of me.
“Oh, Spencer. I didn’t see you there. Can I help you with something?”
“I’m here with Willamina.”
“You are?”
“She wasn’t sure what this was regarding, so I felt it was in her and your,”—he clears his throat—“best interest to accompany her. I assumed this relates to one of her many issues within my department. It could be a training or learning experience.”
I’ve been with the company for three frigging years. I don’t need training. And as for issues, he’s the only one of those I’ve got. Ugh, the guy is a tool and a half.
“No need, Spencer. This matter has nothing to do with work.”
“Oh?” Spencer is now more curious than ever. As am I. “Fine.” He sighs. Turning, he gives me a glare.
He’s still going to want to be briefed.
It’s not happening.
“Come on in, Willa. Have a seat.” I move into his vast office decorated in all dark hues of blue and green. There’s a large black leather sectional in the corner, but his desk is the star of the show. It looks like one a king would have. There’s even gold on the corners and legs. I quickly scan the office since I’ve never been invited inside before. That’s when I decide, on second thought, the real star of this office isn’t the desk, it’s the floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. “Wow, your office is spectacular, Mr. McAllister.”
“Thank you, my dear. Can I get you something to drink? Diet soda?”
“No, thank you, sir.” Sitting in the chair opposite his seat at his desk, I cross my ankles and place my hands on my lap.
Mr. McAllister slips into his chair and leans back, placing his hands behind his head. “So, how’d you meet him?”
“Him?” Oh, crud. I know who. “Hudson?”
“Yes. Hudson Adler.”
Adler. That’s what I thought his last name was.
