“Wait. You said the thirty-sixth floor will be mine. All of it?” This wasn’t a small building. Each floor provided a ridiculous amount of floor space for offices.
“Well, half of it, anyway. I thought we could split it with accounting. We’d like you to assist in designing, getting everything set up. Since you won’t have the opportunity to take the Illinois bar exam until February, we will maintain our relationship with our legal team. It’ll give you time to settle in and hire those who will work for you directly. If that works for you, of course. Admittedly, I don’t know how lawyers operate, so I wouldn’t want to make any assumptions.”
I laughed. I couldn’t help it.
“As you might’ve heard,” Landon continued, “we’re putting in a restaurant on the main floor. Open to the public, of course. Braxton McBride will be our in-house chef and we’re in the market for a restaurant manager. We’re relocating the businesses on the second and third floor. Moving them up so we can add a two-level gym, again, open to the public. All floors above the thirty-eighth are apartments. Most are occupied.”
“You own the entire building,” I stated. It wasn’t a question.
“We do. However, we bought this building with our company in mind. It was inevitable that we expand and it appears we’re at the point to make that happen. While we will continue to have remote employees all over the world, we’re also throwing up some satellite offices for those who require a little more structure.”
Wow. This wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision, apparently.
“I know you needed time to think over our offer,” Langston inserted. “But as you can see, things are progressing at a rapid pace.”
“I can see that.”
“While we don’t want to rush you, we’re a bit eager to have you on board.” Landon smiled, a sheepish look I was getting used to.
These two were the type to do what they pleased and ask for forgiveness later. They weren’t the permission-seeking type.
“That is, if you’re interested,” he tacked on.
“I’ve been giving it some serious consideration,” I told him. And after hearing all this, I was starting to wonder how I could possibly turn it down.
Of course, I hadn’t come to a firm conclusion yet, but it was practically the only thing I could think about. Well, that and Trent and Troy. I couldn’t seem to stop thinking about them. My entire world had become the two of them and I liked the direction things were going.
“We were wondering if you needed us to sweeten the pot,” Langston said, his eyes pinned right on my face.
I grinned, realizing he was serious. “No. That’s not why I’m here. I think your offer is more than generous.”
“Yet you haven’t accepted it,” Landon noted.
“I know we may come off as persistent,” Langston added, “but we wanted to make sure you understood how valuable we believe you’ll be to our company. And we’ll give you as much time as you need to make a decision. There is no rush, no timeline. We’re more than willing to wait for you, but we want you to know we’re also very eager.”
“Thank you,” I said sincerely. “I think my biggest concern is moving from Texas to Illinois. Considering my family lives in Texas and I’ve always been close to them, it would be a big step for me.”
“You’ll have full use of the company jet,” Landon stated. “Anytime you need it. Whether it’s to visit your family or to bring them here. Either way. It’s also available for business travel.”
“That’s very … far more than I expected. If you don’t mind me asking, how many others have you considered for the position?”
“None,” Landon said quickly. “You’re the only one we want.”
I knew I looked as shocked as I was. The way the two of them stared back at me was almost humorous. It definitely would’ve been if I wasn’t so confused.
“You do know I was fired from my previous firm,” I stated, wanting to ensure they understood exactly what they were in for if they hired me.
“I would’ve never let you go.” Landon’s tone was serious. “I would’ve taken that asshole to task. At the very least, praised you for addressing him directly. Sexual harassment isn’t something to joke about. While it may appear we’ve got loose morals, I assure you that isn’t the case.”
I shook my head. “Never once have I been concerned with that.” A lot of people looked down on the kink lifestyle. They didn’t understand it. I wasn’t one of those people.
“Should something like that occur in the future, we hope you’ll trust us enough to bring it to our attention. We have zero tolerance for that sort of behavior. From clients and employees.”
“I didn’t exactly handle it in a professional manner,” I admitted.
“If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?” Langston prompted.
“Nothing. I allowed him to push me too far as it was. He made me incredibly uncomfortable. I politely asked him to stop and he didn’t, so I had to get forceful.”
“There you go,” Landon said with a sly grin. “Even after that explanation, I still would’ve backed you one hundred percent. Both before and after your email.”
“Also,” Langston continued, “if you’re in need of a place to live, even if it’s temporary, we’ve got several available apartments in the building. We’re aware of your relationship with Trent, but it’s still on the table.”
I sat up. “Okay, I’m honestly confused. I’m sure there are plenty of other qualified lawyers who would gladly jump at this opportunity. Probably dozens already here in Illinois. Why me?”
Landon frowned. “Why not you?”
I didn’t have an answer for that.
Langston’s position mirrored mine, his eyebrows lowering. “We’re not trying to pull one over on you, Miss Tinsley. We believe you’d be a great fit for our company. We’re in the process of expanding in several directions. You would be a tremendous asset. The only thing we ask is that you give us the consideration of answering any questions if you decide to decline the offer.”
I nodded because what else was I going to do? While I was completely flattered, I was still questioning their motives. Was it truly because I was as valuable as they believed I was? Or was this a favor to Trent?
“The truth is,” I said softly, “I’m on the fence. But a lot of it has to do with my … personal life.”
“Understood,” Langston said, a smile that looked exactly like his brother’s on his face. “We’re looking forward to having you here and we simply want to ensure you know that.”
“Thank you. I appreciate everything. I know this is an opportunity of a lifetime, so I assure you I’m giving it the appropriate consideration.”
Landon chuckled. “As long as you’ll accept it, we don’t mind one bit.”
I laughed.
How could I not?
“Like we said, take all the time you need. And if you have any questions or concerns, our doors are always open.”
I grinned. “However, there may or may not be a naked secretary kneeling on the floor.”
Langston jumped to his feet. “Shit. I left Luci kneeling on the floor.”
Yeah. I was pretty sure it was that moment that I decided this was exactly where I needed to be.
I only had two more people to talk to about it.
Trent
I WAS HAVING A LATE lunch with Troy, Brax, and Case in the apartment when Clarissa joined us. She had gone down to talk to Landon and Langston nearly two hours ago, and I was eager to know how that meeting had gone.
Unfortunately, she didn’t skip in exuberantly, singing that she had taken the job, nor was she throwing things around, so I had no idea. Her expression gave nothing away. If she were just a little easier to read, perhaps I wouldn’t be on the edge of my seat.
After setting her purse down on the table, my beautiful submissive walked over to the sofa and flopped down into the cushions.
I glanced at Troy and he looked at me.
&nbs
p; “Something wrong, sunshine?”
Brax and Case both shot me questioning looks. I motioned them to stay. No reason for them to leave just yet.
Her eyes slid my way, but she shook her head. “Just thinking.”
“About?”
“The job.”
I took that to mean she hadn’t taken it. I hoped it meant she hadn’t turned it down, either.
“Want to talk about it?”
Her eyes widened and I thought for a moment she was going to decline. Instead, she sat up and nodded. “Would you mind? All of you?”
“I’m all for givin’ a pretty girl advice,” Case said with a wide grin.
“Not at all,” Brax chimed in.
Grabbing my tea glass, I joined her on the sofa while Troy went to her other side. As we had several times this week, we sandwiched her between us, not giving her much personal space. I liked keeping the woman close.
“Something wrong?” Troy asked.
Clarissa smiled over at him. “If being offered the greatest opportunity in the world is considered something wrong, then yes.”
I chuckled, pulling her into my side. “What’s going through that pretty head of yours?”
Her eyes turned to Case and Brax. “Is it true the two of you have decided to join Chatter?”
Brax nodded, his gaze slightly hesitant as it darted toward me. “Yes, ma’am.”
“That appears to be the future as we know it,” Case said.
She straightened again. “Would you mind me asking what made you decide to take it?”
“Have you worked for this man?” Case asked, sighing dramatically. “I mean, come on. He’s a hard-ass. I’ve been applying to work at the gas station for years, but they won’t have me. This was a golden opportunity.”
Brax looked at Case, then rolled his eyes before turning back to Clarissa. “Ignore him. Trent’s a great guy to work for. But I think sometimes you know when an opportunity is the right one. That’s the way it felt for me.”
Case chuckled. “Probably hard to pass up the job you’ve wanted your entire life, huh, B?”
“Not easy, no.”
Brax looked at me and I could see the concern there. He hadn’t been fond of telling me he was leaving my employ to become head chef of his own restaurant. Honestly, had he not taken the job without prompting, I would’ve fired him so he had no choice. The man’s talent was wasted on me.
“It’s the opportunity of a lifetime,” I told him. “I wouldn’t’ve expected you to pass it up.”
“What about your family?” Clarissa asked. “Your friends?”
I could see from the light in his eyes that Brax knew where Clarissa was going with this. “Well, my brothers were thrilled, told me they expected free food when they were up this way.”
“How many brothers do you have?” Clarissa inquired.
“Four.”
“Holy shit,” Troy muttered under his breath.
“That’s nothin’,” Brax said with a smirk. “I’ve got three sisters, too.”
“Oh, my God.” Clarissa’s eyes were wide. “That’s… Wow.”
“Yeah. But they’re not all in Texas anymore. Two of my sisters are career military. They’ve been stationed all over the world. The third owns a bakery. Two of my brothers own a landscaping business, one’s a divorce attorney, and the other’s been in and out of rehab since he was sixteen.”
Clarissa peered over at Case, who grinned back at her. “Only child. All my issues are my own.”
That had everyone laughing.
“And your parents?” Clarissa asked Brax. “Are they in Texas?”
“They are, but they’re not from there. I was born and raised in North Carolina. We moved to Texas when I was twelve.”
“What’s this about?” Case asked, clearly confused as to why she was interrogating them.
Clarissa shrugged. “I’ve been offered this ridiculously amazing job opportunity, but my family and friends are in Texas. It’s kinda hard to think about not seeing them all the time.”
“Do you see them every day now?” Case asked.
“No. I see my mom the most. Probably once a month. But I hang out with my friends quite a bit.”
Case frowned. “So, I’m confused. Can you not see them if you live here?”
Her eyes slid my direction and I noticed a question there, but I wasn’t sure what it was.
She sighed, then leaned against me once more. “I can. They’ve even offered me use of the company jet if I need it.”
“So, what’s the problem?” Case asked.
Her eyes slid to me again. “What happens with us if I move here?”
Ah. So, that was where this was going.
I shot a look to Case and Brax.
“Shit. Would you look at the time?” Case said. “I just remembered I’ve got that thing.” He nudged Brax. “You know, that thing at that place with … that person.”
Brax smirked as he got to his feet. “We’ll see you tonight?”
“We’ll be there,” I assured him.
Case moved toward Clarissa, surprising me when he knelt down in front of her. “There’s only one thing important when making a decision like this.”
“What’s that?” She sounded as though whatever he said would make her final decision for her.
“You follow your heart. Wherever it takes you is where you’re meant to be in that moment.”
She smiled sweetly. “I like your way of thinking.”
He tapped his temple. “Simple mind.”
Yeah. That man was anything but simple.
“Later, y’all,” Case said, laying his drawl on thick. “Come on, B. Let’s go find some trouble to get into.”
Brax followed him out the door. “Why do I get nervous when you say shit like that?”
Troy laughed as the door closed behind them.
“All right, sunshine,” I twisted to face Clarissa. “What’s on your mind?”
She surprised me when she reached out and took my hand, her other hand linking with Troy’s.
“I want to take this job,” she said softly. “And I would’ve already told them that, but I wanted to talk to both of you first.”
“About?”
She shrugged. No words followed.
“Talk,” I demanded.
Clarissa sighed as she sunk deeper into the cushions. “If I take this job, I’m worried it’ll take me away from both of you. Since it’s too early in this relationship to make plans based on … us … I’m not sure what to do.”
“Who says it’s too early?” Troy asked, his gaze bouncing between Clarissa and me.
“Isn’t it?” Clarissa sounded less certain as she turned her head back and forth.
I shrugged casually. “I don’t think it’s too early. Do you, boy?”
“I don’t think it’s too early,” he agreed.
Clarissa chuckled. “Okay, fine. You’ve proven your point. So, let me get this out there then.” Once again, she was trying to look at both of us at the same time. “If I’m here … where will you be?”
“That’s easy.” Troy chuckled.
“Wherever you are,” we both said at the exact same time.
Troy
CLARISSA’S LAUGH HAD MY CHEST constricting. It wasn’t an amused sound. More like a whimper combined with a cough. She was trying to cover it up, but she was clearly stressed about a decision of this magnitude. I couldn’t necessarily blame her.
Feeling the need to reassure her, I released her hand before reaching out to touch her face.
“It really is simple,” I told her. “I go where you go, baby. That’s the only way this’ll work.”
“But how’s that possible?” she asked. She leaned back and divided her attention between us. “When you make another movie, you’ll be on set. That could take you anywhere,” she told Trent. “And you’ll be going with him. Maybe I don’t know how all the movie magic happens, but I know it’s not overnight. I couldn’t imagine being here all alone.” He
r eyes shimmered with tears. “I want it to be simple, but I know it’s not.”
Leaning in, I pressed my lips to hers. “Then don’t overthink this.”
“I’m trying not to.”
While she said the words, I didn’t believe her. There was something else on her mind and I think Master realized it, too, because he stood, then came to kneel in front of her, forcing her to look at him.
“If and when I make another movie, I have plenty of room to negotiate. Yes, I’ll have to be gone for a few days at a time, but we can figure it out. Maybe you go with us. Maybe I hire another assistant so Troy can stay here with you. I’ll have more than enough for him to do with the talent agency. We’ve got options.” He cocked his head slightly. “What else are you worried about?”
Unable to resist touching her, I moved in closer, putting my arm over her shoulder.
“I just… I need to know that the job is real. That I’m not being offered it because they owe you a favor or something.”
Master smiled. “They don’t owe me any favors. And I don’t owe them.” He sighed. “Look, I’ll admit that I looked for a door into your life. Believe it or not, Mercedes isn’t all that forthcoming when it comes to pairing up her friends. So, yes, I did some research into you, found out you were in contract law. And yes, I might’ve been the one to bring you up to Landon and Langston.”
I could feel the tension increase in Clarissa’s shoulders. She didn’t like where this was going.
“But…” Trent took both of her hands in his. “When I mentioned you, it wasn’t to see if they needed your services. I actually told them about you as a casual reference. We were talking about submissives, sunshine. Not business. I might’ve said I had my eye on a pretty auburn-haired girl who had caught my eye.”
Clarissa inhaled sharply and I couldn’t resist smiling. I’d never seen Master quite so … open. He had relaxed these past few weeks since the three of us had settled in. Much more recently since they’d solved the mystery of who had broken in to my apartment and Clarissa’s house. I’d go so far as to say Master was more serene than I’d ever seen him.
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