I couldn’t remember the last time anyone bought me a present…
I handled a few emails and financial sheets before tugging on the ribbon. I peeled away the paper, revealing another wrapped gift and a mini book.
The Most Boring Short Stories in the World
She’d attached a small note under its cover.
Since you struggle to sleep so much, I figure this might help. 99% of the people who’ve tried it agree.
I unwrapped the other gift and saw a set of coffee mug sleeves with my name on them, with initials W.B.E. in tiny print. And another note.
The cardboard sleeves exist on our cups for a reason, but since you NEVER seem to use them for more than a few seconds, here are some custom leather ones that seem more your style.
You’re welcome.
W.B.E = Worst Boss Ever.
(Which you ARE, but… thank you for the raise & upcoming new office.)
I placed one of the sleeves around my freshly delivered coffee and took a sip. Then I called Ciara.
“I can’t talk to you right now,” she answered. “I’m at a secret party where everyone hates you.”
“I’m well aware of the party,” I said. “Why would they invite you, though?”
“Because they don’t know how close we are, and I’m not telling them.” She laughed. “What do you want?”
“I need you to do me a personal favor when you get a chance.”
“Say what you want.”
“I need a gift made for Andrea,” I said. “First, find someone who can make a custom porcelain cup with real gold etching and the utensils to match.”
“What words do you want on it?”
“Best executive assistant ever.”
“Okay… Is that all?”
“Go to Cartier and get her a watch from their Panthère line,” I said. “Make sure it has diamonds around the band and a yellow gold bracelet she can wear with mostly everything.” I paused. “Then tell the dealer to engrave her name and ‘Since you struggle with telling time’ on its back, please.”
“You’ve never bought me a Cartier watch…”
“That fact isn’t changing today.”
She laughed. “I’ll have these things to you by the end of the day.”
“Thank you.”
TWENTY-THREE (B)
ANDREA
Mr. Cross
If you want me to EVER consider letting you have another off day, I suggest you pick two new interns for me before this Saturday…
Why? Josh and Kate are two of the most experienced interns on the team.
