If there is something I want to do less than discussing my father with Roxy, it’s actually talking to my father.
After another sigh of exasperation, she continues. “You’re also smart, even though you’re set on acting like a dumbass. What did your father do to you?”
“I didn’t know you were promoted to office therapist.” I pick up my smoothie.
“Xander, was he abusing you?”
I spatter the green liquid. “No! Jesus, why would your mind go there?”
“It’s not that outlandish, but I’m relieved to hear it’s not the case. Which begs the question, why are you avoiding him? Whatever he did, grow up, forgive, and move on.”
I lean back in my chair. “It looks like you might be the one with daddy issues.”
She flinches. “We’retalking about you.”
Whatever is behind her reaction, unlike her, I don’t believe I’m a therapist, so I let it go. “I’m just curious why you assume he did something.”
Her eyes flicker with something that looks disturbingly excited. “It was you who fucked up? Were you exiled?” The unabashed thrill in her voice draws a laugh from me.
“It’s not a soap opera, Ro.”
The hated nickname wipes the glee from her face. “Whatever you did, Xander, your father has been trying to reach you, so I’m sure you’re forgiven.”
By him, maybe. “I’m not ready to talk to him, so drop it.”
“Is it so bad that you’re going to let down Merged?”
She might have just verbalized the burden that has been weighing on my shoulders. “I’m looking for another solution. He’s not the only one with connections in San Francisco.”
“Another solution?” She looks at me, unimpressed, swirling her drink.
I nod.
“How is that going for you?” She doesn’t hesitate to call me on my bullshit.
I’ve been going through my contacts, but most of them have a connection to my father. That’s what happens when I built my name in his shadow.Honestly, I haven’t had a chance to really try because I’ve been distracted.
Whatever happened four days ago with Cora… I might not understand it, but that doesn’t stop me from thinking about it. Nonstop.
When I try and fail to sleep. When I work out. When I’m in meetings. When I’m attempting to work.
The way she grabbed my lapels and pulled me to her. Fuck, that was the hottest thing ever. I have kissed many women, but never has a kiss evoked as much thrill as hers. Right there and then, I knew a taste wouldn’t ever be enough.
“Look, Roxy, I appreciate your concern, but I’m still your boss, not the other way around. I’ll get it done. I always get things done.”
“Can I have another one?” She raises her empty glass.
“For fuck’s sake, it’s not even five.” I shake my head.
“I had a shitty day, okay? I’m hiding here because Lewis from HR wants to discuss something, and he bores me to death.”
I snort. “Go at it. I’ll have one too.”
She shimmies her hips in a little dance. “Finally, the fun Xander is back.”
“I’ve been here all the time.”
She unscrews the bottle. “Yeah, but since youstarted chasing Cora Winslow, you’re… I don’t know… different.”
