Kaz
Unable to resist, I fish inside my handbag for my phone and reread his texts for the fifth time since I woke up.
SDILF
The shit show at the restaurant was a fucking nightmare. The place was crawling with cops and FBI guys. Anyway, I got home late and I didn’t want to disrupt you, so I resumed my post on the armchair. No nightmares last night. I’m glad.
SDILF
Noticed you put the gift cards I gave you to good use. I tripped over shopping bags from that book shop where I bought you a few books last week.
SDILF
I can’t believe you finished the four books I bought you. At this rate, you’ll need a bookshelf to store your growing collection.
SDILF
Had to get out early to head to Grazie Mille. The owner is freaking out. I don’t blame him.
SDILF
I got you a few things. By eight o’clock, it was clear I was going to be stuck at the restaurant for a while. I took a break from the CSI:NY episode I found myself trapped in, ran to a florist, and got you something for your desk. The vibrant colors remind me of your personality.
SDILF
This morning, I went for a run—I needed to be outside. On the way back, I bought muffins. Since I didn’t know your favorite flavor, I got you the bestsellers.
SDILF
Cressida Paddleford is the office manager. Except for my executive assistant—and now you—she’s the buffer between me and the rest of the staff. She’ll show you around.
SDILF
Have a great first day at work. I have no doubt you’ll dazzle everyone at the office. Catch you later.
‘The vibrant colors remind me of your personality.’
I’m grinning like a fool.
You can buy orchids at any bodega in New York. If your heart is set on the pricey Dick Smith ‘Paradise’ orchid, you’ll have to go to a florist that sells this rare gem.
“Ready?”
My eyes bounce up to meet Cressida’s. “Ready.”
Chapter 37
Must not stab your co-worker
Harley
After meeting my teammates, signing a pile of papers at HR, internally freaking out about how much money Kaz is willing to pay me for this position, and touring Lindström Artisanal Brewery Co, located in an adjacent building to the HQ, I’m in the kitchen waiting for the fancy-schmancy espresso machine to drop the nectar of the gods into my mug. A latte to accompany the muffin Kaz bought me is the perfect way to kick off the day.
I inhale the French vanilla scent and close my eyes on a prayer.
As I count the seconds until the magic happens, I smooth down my blush-coloured cap-sleeve dress. Everyone in the office is decked out in black or navy, so I stand out in my light-colored outfit.
Oh, well.
