Page 12 of Commanded by the sheikh
“Not too awkward so far?” I asked Jesse quickly as I made my way from the door toward the bathroom.
He just shot me that stunning grin. “Not at all.”
“Good.”
I didn’t want to get my hopes up, he could easily change his mind as he stripped the sticky sheets from the bed or walked past me in the shower.
My shower was the one real luxury I’d allowed myself when I’d had the apartment remodeled to serve as my office. I’d done the same at home. Some people like shopping. Some like chocolate. Me? I like a large shower with both rain and waterfall options.
I scrubbed every inch of my skin thoroughly before leaning forward with my palms against the slate. I lost myself in the sensation of warm water cascading down my back as I stretched my shoulders. There was something peaceful about the water. Something sensual as well.
I paid little attention when I heard Jesse come in and drop the sheets into the laundry. This was the only time I took for myself whileI was working, and it was important for my mental health. Fifteen minutes later, I worked to pull my hair back into a wet bun as I made my way into the reception area;noticing on my way the bed was made and the water bottle Casey had used had been replaced. Jesse was nervously arranging and rearranging the books on the coffee table when I stepped out and gestured for him to sit. His lips curved into a smile, but it was nervous, not quite lighting up his eyes the way it had earlier. I liked this man. There was just something about him.
“Thoughts?” I asked, settling onto the couch.
He looked serious, but hopeful.
“In truth, it’s not what I expected.”
A knot formed in my stomach. Fuck, there went that.
“How so?” I asked, trying to appear unaffected by what seemed like the beginning of a rejection. I was simply interviewing assistants. Why did the idea of his rejection feel personal rather than professional? It had to be because I was desperate and he’d been the best candidate I’d met with, by far. Yes. That was it. Definitely.
“You’re….its…well..” He stumbled.
I smiled gently.“Whatever it is, I can take it.”
He blushed slightly at the implication.
“I…I guess I didn’t know what to expect but somehow neither you nor the job is what I’d anticipated.” When he finally found his words, they came strong and confident.“You’re kinder and more professional than I expected. The job is simple, and surprisingly less awkward than I thought it would be. It’s just people coming in for a service, like seeing a doctor.”
The knot in my stomach began to fade and I was alarmed to feel a lone little butterfly take its place. Was I actually nervous about this? What was it about this man?
“Well, if that means you’re interested, I’dlike to offer you the job.”
Helooked ecstatic for a moment, and then a brush of something crossed his face and his brow furrowed slightly.
“I want to be honest with you.” Hebegan, “Even if it means you don’t want me anymore. This would only be for just over two years for me, until I finish up my course work and take an internshipposition.”
I suppose I’d known that from his resume, but I hadn’t expected the wave of disappointment that washed over me.
I smiled kindly anyway.“Completely understood. That still means I get a great assistant for two years.”
He beamed; eyes glowing amber, smile taking over his entire face.“Then I’d love the job.”
I let my smile deepen in return asI reached out a hand which heshook firmly.
“This was my last client for the week, and you have access to my schedule now; would you be available to start Tuesday?” I asked. I always worked Tuesday through Saturday.
“Absolutely.”
“Perfect,” I said as I stood to escort him to the door.
“See you Tuesday, Jesse.”
He simply nodded once more as he turned to walk away. As Ishut the door behind him, Ifelt strangely excited at the thought of having him around regularly.
Jesse
