I huff out a breath. “You have no idea how glad I am that you’re back.”
She gives me a small smile. “Me too.”
I hesitate. “Listen, about before-”
Jess cuts me off. “We’re good,” she says softly.
I move without thinking, kneeling in front of her and taking her hands in mine.
“I’m sorry,” I say quickly. “I shouldn’t have pushed. I love you. And I’m so grateful you forgave me.”
She looks at me and smiles.
But just like this past year, it isn’t as bright.
And I did that.
I squeeze her hands gently, wishing I could take back everything.
Chapter Four
Jess
Leaving Logan to take his call, I decide to head out.
I can’t stay in that office anymore, staring at his face filled with understanding and regret. It makes my chest ache in a way I don’t know if I can take anymore.
I lift a hand in a small wave toward Mackie as I pass her desk.
“Ma’am?”
I press the elevator button and wait as footsteps hurry up behind me.
“I-I’m sorry about the desk,” Mackie blurts out, breathless. “Mr. West didn’t say it was for you. I thought it was just… for a plant or something. I’m really sorry.”
“It’s alright,” I tell her, and realize I mean it. Her eyes look suspiciously shiny, like she’s two seconds from crying.
“I just-” she tries again. “I’m really glad you’re coming back. I mean, Mr. West is a good boss, but, um… I applied here because of you.”
“Huh?” I say, genuinely thrown.
She shifts her weight, cheeks flushing. “Mr. Duncan is my uncle. He used to talk about you all the time. About how good you were at your job. How you started as an assistant and worked your way up.”
She shrugs, embarrassed. “I guess I wanted to be like that.”
I blink.
“That’s very… sweet,” I say honestly. “I had no idea about Mr. Duncan. Logan never mentioned-”
“Oh, he doesn’t know,” she says quickly. “I didn’t want him to think I was looking for special treatment.”
“That’s admirable,” I say, meaning it.
The elevator dings behind me.
I step inside and turn back. “I’m looking forward to working with you, Mackie.”
Her smile is instant and relieved. “You too, ma’am.”
