Chapter Sixteen
“This is incredible.”
I couldn’t keep from smiling as I stood at the window of my new office. Edward had opened the door to the dazzling view that matched the one in his office, and though my space was only a quarter of the size of his, it didn’t matter.
“I’m glad you like it. IT will set you up on the network, and you have anUltimateemail. Ah, and here’s Steph with your coffee.”
For some, having a secretary delivering coffee and whatever else might seem the pinnacle of success. Considering I was used to working in my boxers or, if I was cold, my sweats, and keeping a pot of coffee by my side, it made me slightly uncomfortable to have my coffee delivered in a china cup and saucer.
“Thank you so much. This is wonderful.” I accepted the coffee, and she smiled.
“You’re welcome. If you like it, I’ll make sure you have it every time you’re here.”
“Oh, sure.” I guess strolling in with a coffee from 7-Eleven wouldn’t cut it. But why not? Irritated with myself, I sipped the hot coffee. I was here specifically because I broke the mold ofUltimate NYC. I wasn’t one of the rare breed who only drank six-dollar coffees or cappuccinos. I wasn’t Francisco Martinelli.
Edward watched me carefully, and I imagined he knew exactly what I was thinking. “Why don’t you take a few minutes to get oriented, and then meet me next door for the meeting? Not all the staff is here yet. I’ve kept your appointment under wraps.” He chuckled. “I do love a good surprise.”
I joined him in that laughter. “Okay. Sounds good.”
He closed the door behind him, and I sat at my new desk, running my hand over its shiny, smooth surface. My phone buzzed, and I smiled at the text from Frisco.
How goes it?
Good. Getting ready for a meeting.
Sounds awful. I hate meetings and always bail.
Don’t have a choice for this one.
Better you than me. See you tonight?
I smiled.Yeah. Will finally tell you all about it. Where to?
One minute, then two ticked by as I waited for him to respond.
I’ll make you dinner.
He texted me his address.
A knock sounded on the door.
“Come in.”
Steph stuck her head in. “Edward’s waiting for you.”
I jumped up. “Coming.”
Before putting the phone away, I texted Frisco:OK. TTYL.
The conference room was pretty standard, except a full breakfast spread was set out, and I had to admit, I was touched. There were muffins, croissants, bagels, lox and cream cheese, mini quiches, and platters of fruit. A bouquet of flowers sat at the center of the table, along with a large chocolate cake with the words “Welcome, Salvatore” written in white icing.
“Wow. I feel like I keep saying that all morning, but it’s true.”
People began to file into the room, and soon it was occupied with close to forty staff members. I was introduced to a whirlwind of faces and titles I couldn’t possibly remember in one day, but I smiled and nodded. Edward walked in, stood at the head of the table, and motioned for me to stand next to him.
“Salvatore, come, please. Everyone quiet down. Are we all here?” He scanned the room. “Where’s Francisco?”
“Called in sick,” someone answered from the opposite end of the table. “Quelle surprise.”
