Also, I wasn’t giving Lydia a raise. I was going to fire her for throwing this smart, beautiful woman under the bus. I leaned back in my chair as I studied my social media manager with impassive eyes. Slowly, the vindictive glee faded from Lydia’s face. I suspected she’d done this to Zaila because she sensed my attraction to her, and she wanted to quash it. I’d certainly sensed Lydia’s attraction to me, and I’d done my best to quash that.
I shifted my gaze to the new intern. “Well, Zaila, that was an impressive presentation, especially since you’d been told you were here to observe. In fact, it’s more interesting than anything I’ve heard from the social media team in months. Thank you for bringing the idea to my attention.”
Before I could say or do something I’d regret regarding Lydia, I rose from my chair, gave them a nod, and strode back to my office. Once inside, I shut the door and leaned against it, eyes closed.
Zaila Monroe was smarter and even sexier in full professional mode. She was a badass. And she had a perky little ass. I rubbed my hands down my face. I worked closely with the social media team on the organization’s brand and messaging, so I’d see Zaila often, especially once I fired Lydia. And if the dose of sexy professionalism amped up any higher…
I’m totally fucked. And not in the fun way.
Chapter 5
Zaila
After Gunnar Evaldson departed, Lydia asked for details to hash out the plans he had agreed to, and Jay, Tim, and Veronica backed all my suggestions. That portion of the meeting ran until nearly five, so once we were finished, I just needed to shut down my computer and collect my bag from my office before I could leave for the day. At least the lengthy conversation had given my legs time to stop shaking.
Before I managed to leave, though, Lydia appeared in the doorway, her glasses atop her head, nearly buried in light brown curls.
She offered a smile that I struggled to believe was genuine. “You did really well today.”
I offered a stiff nod. “Thank you.”
Lydia sighed, her lips compressed. “Look, Zaila, you’re young. You’re lovely. You have a lot to learn about corporate America…and I want to help you.”
I bit my cheek, refusing to respond to her condescension.
“He’s interested in you,” she blurted. Taking a step back, no doubt to make sure the hall was clear, Lydia walked into my office. She flung herself into the chair as if she were auditioning for a furniture commercial.
This was my first office. My first professional job, despite the title of intern. What I’d thought was my dream company. Spoiler alert: this dream apparently involved a passive-aggressive boss and potential HR violations.
Be careful what you wish for… Those words had never rung truer than today.
My father had been such a hockey fan, not just of the Wildcatters but of the corporation’s leadership, and I’d wanted to be part of that, for him. Now I wasn’t sure. I kept wondering what my mother would say about my mixed feelings. She was the best at teasing out the critical pieces, letting the rest fade so it no longer bothered her.
“I’m looking out for you,” Lydia said, her voice and expression plaintive. “I need to remind you that romantic relationships between coworkers are frowned upon. And starting something on your first day, particularly with the owner, won’t be a good look for you.”
I centered myself. She was looking out for me the way a cheetah looks out for a gazelle. And I’d read the handbook and my contract twice. Time to showcase the skills Daddy taught me. I lifted my chin and met Lydia’s gaze.
“Actually, I understand that relationships may cause potential loyalty issues or conflicts of interest and are to be brought to HR immediately,” I told her. “That’s typically used for if and when players get involved with staffers. I haven’t been romantically involved with anyone here. Now, I don’t control the owner’s thoughts or feelings, and I don’t control yours, either. But you told me one thing and did the exact opposite today, and I didn’t appreciate being unprepared. I’ll always do my best to rise to the occasion, but as my boss, I assume you’ll want to make sure I’m not put in that position again since my performance reflects on you.”
I gripped my tote so hard the straps dug into my palms. But I didn’t back down.
Lydia exhaled sharply, and a dull flush crept up her neck. “You’re right.”
“Thank you.” Short. Simple. No need to rub it in, Zaila.
Lydia pursed her lips, tilting her head. “You’re not what I thought you’d be.”
I snorted. “A pushover? I’m here because I want to be, and I worked hard to be. That said, I have no problem walking out that door and continuing to walk, especially if you try to use fake concern or lies against me again.”
“That’s unnecessary.”
Lydia and I startled, turning toward where Gunnar now stood in the doorway.
“Gunnar,” Lydia said, rising to smooth her suit jacket over her hips.
Ah. Flora had called it. Lydia lusted after Gunnar, and she saw me as competition. I’d walked into a professional and emotional minefield.
“I came to the same conclusion Ms. Monroe seems to have reached,” Gunnar said, inclining his head toward me. “Which is why I’m going to say this plainly: This is a professional organization. We work here. I have never and do not plan to be romantically involved with my staff. Ever. Not because it’s against corporate policy, but because I believe each member of this team deserves to earn their achievements.” He gave Lydia a long and pointed look, and she wilted.
