Pulling out the bag of coffee, Jolie studied the front label.
“Hacienda La Esmeralda isn’t the most expensive coffee in the world, but that's only because I refuse to drink something that’s passed through an animal’s digestive tract first.”
Maybe I was trying to make up for being a prick earlier, but her expression was enough to show me she wasn’t impressed with my attempt at witty banter.
“I promise, it’s worth the money.” Suddenly, I felt as though I had to explain my choices.
“You know, you could probably feed an entire family for a week with the money you spend on this stuff.” Her frown was nearly cute, but her words were not.
“As someone who worked to obtain my wealth, I can assure you I’ve heard every excuse in the world for why I shouldn't even be allowed to spend it.” Shoving the offending coffee back into the credenza, I slammed the doors closed. “For the record, I donate to multiple charities, including those which feed the hungry and house the homeless. So maybe it would behoove you to not hop on your soapbox just yet.”
“Fine, I'll lay off on the humanitarian crises speech I’d planned.”
And she had a sense of humor. Perfect.
She’s too young, her mother is an invaluable employee, and you don't fuck your coworkers, I reminded myself.
Fat lot of good that did me.
“If that’s all?” she asked, and I nodded.
Once she’d disappeared back to her desk, I sat. Pushing papers and my fountain pen across the desk, I tried to order my thoughts. I had to be nicer to her if I wanted her to continue working for me. But then again, maybe I didn't want her to continue here. If she’d be a constant distraction, wouldn't we both be better off if she weren't here?
But no. I couldn't do that to her in good conscience. It wasn't her fault she tempted me to the point of distraction. Nor was it her fault I was incredibly attracted to her hair, her eyes, her lips, and her body. That was the exact reason I had to be professional as fuck at all times.
If she would just stay out there, and I stayed in here, then everything would fall into place. I could do that. I could stay put, keep my opinions to myself, and not be an asshole to her.
Right?
There was a knock on the door, and it opened when I responded to come in. It was Miss Adkins with lunch.
“Here is fine,” I said, indicating the edge of my desk.
There were many things I wished could occur right there on the edge of my desk, but that required me to go back on my word. I never went back on my word. If I made a promise, I kept it, come hell or high water.
“You made sure to get yourself something?” I asked, doing my best to behave by not staring at her.
“Yes, sir.”
She left my office without any more chatter, which was probably for the best.
By the end of the day, I felt I had myself in check. I could behave, and I would. Leaving her to do her job was the wisest course of action, after all. My company would benefit from my professionalism, as always. With time, Miss Adkins would learn to be an excellent assistant. And I would learn to keep my hands to myself, my mouth and its snarky comments closed, and my eyes in my own skull.
I would certainly not permit myself to rail her on my desk, or her desk, or push her up against the walls of the elevator.
No, that wouldn't do at all.
~~~
