Thought I could breathe again.
Then she walked in today.
One look — that green dress hugging every curve, the way her body moved like it knew exactly what it did to me — and it hit worse than before.
Were her hips always that full? Her waist that soft?
She’s brilliant. Fire in every word.
But God, her body.
Soft where I’m hard. Curved where I’m sharp and unyielding. Real in a way I can’t stop imagining.
I imagine that fire burning for me. That body given to me.
She’s an employee.
My rule. Ironclad.
No dating employees.
No exceptions.
I’m ready to burn it down.
I have to say something.
Ask her out.
Make it real.
There is no “getting over” this.
No waiting until after the contract.
I’m under a spell.
And only Lizzie will do.
Chapter 9- Red Tape
Lizzie had managed to dodge the boss’s office like a disobedient teen dodging the principal for the rest of the week. One more week with Carlota’s team, and she’d happily leave the labyrinth of accounting behind—though she would miss her new friend.
She came home to George again in the house. He and Lidia were spending serious time together now; affection was unmistakable.
Lizzie had grown accustomed to George’s presence when she got home most days. Often times they’d share a beer and chat as Lidia finished getting ready. The talk was light, usually just some anecdote about a recent party or encounter while out and about, or some funny story about someone Lizzie had met. It was light conversation and a welcome relief from the tense days of spreadsheets and numbers. They didn’t bring up the awkward cheek kiss or absent texts, to Lizzie’s relief, and although Abuela had kept a skeptical view of him, Lizzie had grown fond of him and felt they had become true friends.
“Do you and Lidia have plans tonight?” Lizzie asked, rummaging for food.
“Yes, taking her to dinner,” George said. Then, quieter, “You don’t hate me?” It was the first time either of them had even alluded to their potential initial interest.
Lizzie almost laughed. “For what? You two are a good match. I don’t mourn things I never had. I’m glad I introduced you.”
And the truth was, she meant it. The awkward cheek kiss already felt like a distant, irrelevant memory. This — easy, light, no expectations — was exactly what she wanted.
George looked relieved. “Good. And I’m glad we were able to bond over a mutual dislike of a certain arrogant ass.”
“And this,” Lizzie handed George a beer. “This has been really nice.”
