Page 9 of Carnal Risk

“Perhaps, but I like to make sure my ducks are in order. In my business, there’s no room for mistakes. Everything must be checked and double checked. Speaking of which, I do expect you to learn the aspects of my business. You do not need to participate in, uh,” Garrett looked to Lars and smiled, “some of the more intensive aspects of research. But you do need to be ready and willing to learn. Are you, Miss Reynolds?”

“Yes, sir.”

Garrett sucked a breath as the two little words from her soft lips caused his cock to jerk. His pants tightened around his groin, and he discreetly tugged on the fabric.

“I suppose we have a deal then. You help me get Evan’s project back on track and start recruiting.”

Selby gave him a hesitant smile. She didn’t trust him, he knew. Shit, he didn’t trust himself around her either. Lars grinned as well, but Garrett recognized the cautionary tick in his jaw. He shoved out of his chair and rounded the desk. He extended his right hand to her, still holding the contract in his left.

Selby stood to meet him, and her warm hand firmly locked onto his. He sensed that she was determined to exert her dominance, attempting to draw attention from the sexual tension that flared in their touch. He heard a deliberate cough from Lars, and caught his pointed glare. Releasing her fingers, he turned to the window, determined to resume control.

“When you come up from HR, please go directly to your office. Expect to find your laptop, tablet, and phone. We have standard security procedures. No equipment is allowed in or out of the office. You need to leave your personal electronics at home or check them in with security at the door. If you need anything else, please let my secretary know. He’ll set up an appointment for us tomorrow to review the projects Evan was working on as well as an in detail review of the company. This includes getting to know what we do here. Not just reading about it either. Your participation will be required.”

“I’m not sure why that’s necessary. I can assure you I’ve worked at many companies and can attend to my projects without any sort of special orientation. I don’t need to make a video game to know how it’s used,” she argued.

“It’s the only way for you to comprehend even a fraction of what occurs behind these walls. You’re going to be leading and interacting with people here who expect you to walk the walk. They may give you some leeway given your temporary status, but if you’re responsible for bringing in Evan’s replacement, you’re going to have to learn more than just the surface of what’s expected.”

“I understand,” she conceded.

“Since you and Lars know how the managed services contracts work, I want you at the board meeting tomorrow. I know it’s short notice but between your expertise at DLar-Tech and Evan’s notes, you should be able to handle it.”

“Certainly. Not a problem.”

“And Selby.” Garrett loosened his tie and turned to address her as she went to exit his office.

“Yes, Mr. Emerson.”

“Tomorrow, after the board meeting…you’ll need to bring a bathing suit.”

“What? I’m sorry?”

“A bathing suit. You own one, right?”

“Yes, but…”

Garrett smiled as Selby attempted to remain professional, but was unable to hide the flicker of shock in her eyes.

“I thought we’d start with aquatics, polymers…things like that. That is unless you prefer our skydiving division. If the weather’s nice we could take the plane and…”

“Aquatics it is,” she answered curtly. Her face went pale and she reached for her neck as if to try to get more air. She braced her palm on the doorjamb.

Garrett immediately recognized her change in disposition at his mention of skydiving. He rushed over to her side. Cupping her cheek, he tipped her chin so her eyes met his.

“Hey, I was just kidding. Take a deep breath, sweetheart.”

“I’m sorry…no, I’m okay.” She coughed. Her fingers reached for Garrett’s forearm, clutching it for balance.

“Selby, you okay?” Lars asked.

Garrett held a hand out to his friend, who seemed intent on comforting Selby. While Lars certainly knew her better than he did, she was his responsibility now. Whatever was going on with her was something he’d need to address.

“Sure she is. Look, you’re breathing’s better already,” Garrett assured her. He inadvertently put a comforting hand on her back and gently rubbed it.

“I’m sorry,” she gasped. “Yes, I’m fine.”

Garrett didn’t resist as she broke away from him, releasing his arm. She thanked him once again before leaving, and he made no attempt to stop her. His eyes went to Lars, whose expression had gone serious, disapproving of how he’d handled the situation. Letting Selby go was something Garrett would have to learn how to do, he knew, but knowing and doing were two different things. He prayed he could get his shit together before his next meeting with Miss Selby Reynolds.

Chapter Five