by Amy Brent
She was more than happy with herself. Rarely did she find herself lacking for dates, in fact being a big beautiful girl was all the rage sometimes, and for a brief moment she had been very popular indeed. Now, in the corporate world, she was often looked at as though somehow she was lacking, something that she refused to let her get down.
With a shrug, she went back to pacing. Now was not the time to focus on how she looked, now was the time to figure out what had gone wrong. She had interviewed for the assistant position, and she had aced that interview. If there was anything she knew, it was how to interview for a job. Growing up in a rough neighborhood, she had been taught at a very young age that the only way to make, it was to get out of the neighborhood, as soon after high school as you could. She had seen so much negative activity around her cul-de-sac, she had needed no further prodding.
She hated the idea of letting herself get emotional over this situation, but she was lying if she didn’t fight back tears a time or two. She had climbed the ladder too long, and too hard. The Director had all but told her it was in the bag two weeks ago, and she had planned on it. Sadly, now she was left scrambling to fix everything she had changed. Had she known, she wouldn’t have taken on a car note. She would have stuck with her little beat up cavalier a couple more years, instead she sold it. Using that money to buy her a new and improved wardrobe to go along with her new title. Now she was stuck with a car she couldn’t afford, and clothes she didn’t need.
She slumped down in the chair with a sigh. It wasn’t fair, not even a little. She wasn’t the type to get discouraged, but today just seemed to be bringing her down. Alice, from HR had called her an hour ago and she had done nothing but pace the floor since then. To ask about any other positions would be fruitless, that much was for sure. She had followed the job postings closely, always waiting to jump on this one when it had opened. She tapped her chin lost in thought for a moment. Maybe she had done something wrong? She furrowed her brow, thinking about it at length. She couldn’t think of anything, but then nothing would be a surprise really.
She sat up quickly, what she needed was an inside scoop on what had happened. If she couldn’t get straight answers, then surely she could ask her co-workers, especially Debbie. Debbie Burrows had the inside knowledge about everything in the office, no matter how small or how big. She hated even getting this ball rolling, but it had to be done, plain and simple. She dialed the number quickly, chewing on her lower lip as she did.
“Hullo, this is Miss Deb.” The happy voice on the other end answered cheerfully.
“Hey Deb, its Megan…”
“Oh, hayyyy girl. I can’t believe they didn’t give you that position.” She cut off her hello.
“Yeah, I was really hopeful about that.” Wow, news certainly did travel fast.
“I know girl, I heard that old man Rutledge gave control over to his son William, and he brought in his nephew for the job. Something about a family crisis or something. Still, I know you earned that job fair and square.”
“Well, I was just calling to see if you had heard anything at all.” She frowned just saying the words.
“Just what I told ya honey. I hope you will be ok, I know it is a blow.”
“I'm fine, thanks Miss Deb.” She flicked the screen, ending the call a frown on her face. A nephew huh, well she would go find William Rutledge herself and ask him how any of this is fair.
She had to think twice about it as she headed towards the door. It was a Tuesday, hopefully he was still in town. He was somewhat of an enigma. William Rutledge was the only son of Mr. Rutledge, the senior and the owner of the corporation she was working for. She had never met him, only seen his signature from time to time on correspondence as it came through the office. She knew he was known to be ruthless, arrogant and a bit of a womanizer. Either way, she would give him a piece of her mind, even if it meant losing her job.
With a sigh, she recanted that last bit, she couldn’t lose her job, despite this issue. She had to have some money coming in. She slid into the seat of her car, her wonderful “new to her” car. She would likely have to give it back, unless something happened and so on. She set off for her building, hoping to get there before everyone left for the day.
Finding a spot in the massive garage, she slipped out of her car, straigtening her skirt as she went. She would approach this with a no nonsense kind of attitude, and be as sweet and as charming as she could be. She glanced around the lot almost empty which suited her just fine. The last thing she needed was the rumor mill turning, and it's attached to her name in any way. She hit the button on the elevator and made her way into the lobby. She smiled at George the attendant, giving him a wave and she moved down the long corridor towards the south elevators. Her phone ringing, she fished it out of her purse only to feel herself being knocked against the wall, causing her to drop her bag entirely.
Chapter Two- William
The place was a mess, and one he didn’t relish the idea of fixing up for his father. Sure, he loved the old man with everything he had, the problem was much more complex than that. In fact, he would have to spend the better part of the year living in the city to try and make sense of things. Rarely did he find his way into the smaller cities that the company had operations in. He far preferred the fast pace of New York or Miami. No, sadly he was stuck, at least for the foreseeable future in Chicago. Not that he disliked the area, in fact, there was some city structures and charm that made him feel much more relaxed than some of the other places. Glancing down at his watch he realized it was later than he thought. He would have to come back tomorrow and wrap this latest set of paperwork up.
He stood glancing out of the floor to ceiling mirror that gave him an overview of the city. If there was anything he loved more about this office, it was this room. He, had the advantage over his father in height. At 6’2 he was able to see more of the view than his father had, and yet that’s where the differences in them stopped. Broad and blonde, William had an easy way about him, never dealing with stress, or allowing it to take over his life. He also had the same clear blue eyes, much like his father. The only resemblance to his mother that he had was the dimple in his left cheek. Something his father reminded him of often.
Even now he felt a twinge thinking of her. She had been a wonderful woman, full of life and excitement. She had been gone only two years, cancer taking her quickly from them. It seemed like only yesterday more often than not. He had been fortunate to live 28 years before losing her, and his 30th birthday was fast approaching. If she had been here she would be pushing him towards finding a wife. Something he had no intention of doing any time soon.
It wasn’t that he didn’t like women, he did. In fact, that was the real issue, he liked them too much. He was careful to keep out of the news, never flaunting any one woman more than another. He was discreet and careful, something he had learned at a very young age. He smiled even now, thinking of the petite blonde he had met only yesterday. Quietly he had given her a compliment or two and left her with a number to call him. They had plans this weekend, and he would find a way to charm her, winning her over and into his bed.
It was almost boring these days, his endless parade of beauties. There was no challenge in any of them. If they weren’t impressed with his car and money, they wanted him because of his looks. Never conceited, he thought he was just an average guy, though he tried to take care of himself. He glanced at his reflection in the glass, his blond hair short and wavy on top, he didn’t see it, but it left him never being alone. That was something he enjoyed most. He hated the silence, the simplicity of being alone. No, he would always prefer to eat, drink and have good conversation with a woman over solitude. He heard his phone buzzing and glanced down at it with a scowl. His nephew Jackson.
It wasn’t that he didn’t care about the boy, he did. In fact, he had given him a position in the company, in hopes that he would be content. Every day there was a call about something, asking him 100 questions about the job and whining o
ver where his office would be. He knew that the job had been promised to someone else, but he had given his aunt Gertie his word he would find him a place, and not in the Mailroom. It had simply been the only one open at the time. He gave a glance at the stack of boxes still waiting to be unpacked by the door. He would have to hire an assistant too. So much to do and so little time to do it. He slipped into his jogging suit, hoping to get a run in while out and made his way to the door hoping to find some early dinner. Some of the staff would be here until 6, so he would come back and be there until they all left, a tradition his father had started, and one he would strive to continue. He walked out of the elevator, heading towards the garage when his phone rang again. Grabbing it, he sighed, seeing Jacksons number once more. What he didn’t see was the person he was walking into.
“Damn.” He cursed. “I am sorry; I didn’t even look up.” He held a hand out to her, helping her find an upright position once more. He grabbed her bag finally meeting her eyes.
Hazel, green… some variation of the two. She glanced up at him, brushing off her skirt, doing some cursing herself. He couldn’t help but grin slightly taking her in. She was nothing like the women he found himself with. She was tall, but not overly so, curvy, but in all the right places and her caramel skin gave the appearance of being kissed by the sun. She took care of herself, and her body language made that very clear.
“If you're finished looking at me, I’ll take my bag back.” She gave him a look, brows arched as she held out her hand.
“Sorry.” He thrust it out to her, a little at a loss for words. He watched her strive to put herself back together.
“Oh man, seriously?” She sighed, rolling her eyes as she pulled the two ends of her shirt together. It was obviously ripped, and beyond fixing. With a huff, she slung her bag over her shoulder. “You should really watch where you’re going. This outfit cost me a fortune.” She gave him a once over taking in his causal clothes.
He crossed his arms amused. “Your right, I should, I’d be happy to cover the cost of your shirt….” He trailed off, and she glanced up at him once more before looking down at the shirt once more.
“Megan… my name is Megan.”
“I’m William, it’s nice to meet you… and I meant it.” He watched her flush slightly before answering.
“No, it's fine, just be careful. This building is one of professionalism, try to be mindful of that.” She left him, then making her way to the elevator. He watched her go with a smile. She was a spitfire that one. He slipped out of the building and down the street to grab some food to bring back for dinner.
Chapter Three-Megan
“Ass.” It was the first word to come to mind as she made her way up the elevator to the ninth floor.
Sure, he had offered to pay for her outfit, but still. He seemed to be content to smile at her and look her up and down a few times. Men were always the same and she could usually blow them off pretty easily. He had been a gentleman and apologized, she could give him credit for that. Plus, he had been gorgeous, a nagging voice in her head popped in.
True that, he had been gorgeous. She always had an eye for an attractive guy, but she had standards now. She didn’t want to find herself pregnant and left alone with a yard full of kids while her baby’s daddy was off doing who knows what. No, she would put relationships aside for as long as possible. She would take care of herself, and not count on anyone else for it. Then, and only then would she find the right man to fit into her life.
He hadn’t seemed to mind her curvaceous body, or her style so that was a plus. Relationship or not, she was happy to date from time to time. Sadly, by the looks of him, he wouldn’t be able to take them out anywhere. She entered into the lobby and found her way around until she saw Jasmine at the desk.
“Hey Jaz.” She gave her a smile.
“Heyy Megan, what’s up?” She moved her head pieces down so she could hear better.
“I heard from a little bird that William Rutledge is here, do you think you can find out for me?”
“Yes, he sure is. He actually stepped out for a minute, but he should be back shortly if you want to wait for him?”
She glanced at her watch. “Sure, I can do that.”
She made her way over and sat down on the plush couches. After a few minutes she decided to make herself some coffee while waiting. She rarely came up to the ninth floor, it was for higher level clearance. She, herself was on level 6, only knowing Jasmine since they shared some of the same training before. Soon she found herself bored, and ready to go. Maybe she would try back tomorrow. She took the turn back around to the front window just as Jasmine called for her.
“Hey, sorry he took forever. Go ahead and go over through those doors, he will meet you in there. He doesn’t have an assistant yet so he is doing his own thing.” She gave her a half smile and a wink as she got back into her own work.
Megan felt the pressure of what she was about to say wash over her. She was nervous, but she also felt like she had a point to make. She pushed through a set of double doors and into a smaller room with a desk and sitting area. She was waiting when she heard the voice from earlier.
“Well, I have to say I didn’t expect to see you again.” He oozed charm and Megan found herself lost for a moment, unable to speak.
“Oh wow, uh see I …just wow.” She felt the heat rise up into her face and in that moment she wanted to disappear.
He chuckled. “You must be Megan James?” He held a hand out, which she jumped up to shake hesitantly.
“Yes, and I suppose you must be…”
“William Rutledge, or Bill.” He dropped his hand, the heat coming from him was almost too much.
“Come on in Mrs. James.” He moved in front of her and pushed open his door, allowing her to pass.
She moved past him carefully, his gaze was intent on her as she walked in. Making his way in behind her he gestured towards one to his plush chairs across from his desk. She watched as she took off his jacket, surprised at how quickly he had changed into this from his jogging suit earlier. Just then she remembered what she had said to him, she blushed once more. If she left here with a job at all she would be doing well.
Deciding to get it over with quickly, she charged in. “I am sure you are wondering why I am here Mr. Rutledge. The truth of the matter is I am upset at how things turned out.” She waited her eyes meeting his, holding him there for a moment.
“I assume you mean about the promotion, and not our interaction downstairs?” He gave her a smile and she felt the pulse at her throat quicken as she watched his simple move with his smile.
“Um, yes, about that.” She trailed off as he held up a hand to stop her.
“It's fine Mrs. James, as for the position, I will apologize for that, however them isn’t a thing I can do about it really. I have a copy of your records here. I can see you’ve been an asset. We would hate to see you leave us.” He arched an eyebrow at her over the file.
“Oh no, I mean I don’t want to leave. I was just given the impression I was simply moving into that position. Now, however, it seems to have vanished.” She was upset now, his bullying tactic, making her angry.
“No it’s there, I just had to make changes, some I didn’t want to do. There is nothing I can do about it now though. Do you have any experience with anything higher than a level 6?”
She sat back carefully. She was angry, but doing her best to not say or do anything that would make the situation worse. “No, I only have level 6 clearance. I’ve been grooming for that position for over a year.” She said it in clipped tones.
He was watching her over the desk, silently taking her in. She hated to be a spectacle for him or anyone else.
“Why do you insist on staring at me like that Rutledge? If you have a question, ask it already.” She had lost it, her self-control. She watched the surprise on his face and the lazy smile that followed.
“You certainly say exactly how you feel don’t you Mrs. James?”
&nbs
p; “It’s Miss James, and yes I do. Where I am from if you don’t say anything you only have yourself to blame for the outcome.” She stood to go, it was obvious she would have to look for a job.
She stood to make her way to the door. “Thank you for taking the time to talk to me Rutledge. I’ll move my things from my office in the morning.”
Hearing him chuckle once more, she looked up at him her face flushed. “On the contrary, Miss. James.” He emphasized the Miss. “I want to offer you a different position.”
She frowned, almost afraid to ask him what it was. He made his way across the room to look out at the city once more. She allowed herself to take him in once more. Tall and broad he was quite a spectacle standing in the light of the window. She let her eyes travel over him until he spoke once more.
“Why Miss. James, I think perhaps you’re the one checking me out now.” He gave her a broad smile and walked towards her.
She felt the heat rise up in her face, having been caught staring at him, the very thing she had called him out on earlier. He moved like a cat, graceful and determined. She was frozen to the spot, unable to move as he stood in front of her. She felt the heat from him as he leisurely leaned against the door. His eyes slowly raking over her.
“Tell me, Miss James, you’ve made it clear you’re not married, do you have a boyfriend?”
She inhaled carefully, “No, it takes up too much time.” She met his gaze head on, noticing the appreciative look he gave her. There was something in his smile that made her feel weak, almost lost on him in that moment. She shook her head to clear her thoughts.
“I have some things that need some attention here. If you can help me work through them, I’ll see what I can do about another position. Deal?”
She bit her lower lip, thinking. At the very least it would buy her some time. “Sure, fine. I’ll be here in the morning; does that work for you?”
“9am Miss James. Don’t be late.” He gave her a wink as she left.
Late? As if she had ever been late a day in her life. She was content in his offer, she could show him what she did well, and perhaps he could help her. The next morning came quickly and she found herself faced with a mountain of paperwork when she walked in. Most of it was invoices and tax documents that needed attention. She was halfway through a pile when he walked in.
