Page 40 of Painted Truths

She's in flying form. Barking orders at me and basically making life miserable.

Obviously, Henry has spoken to Martha, and despite Alex's newly found clout, even he won't be able to save me if Henry has decided I'm out on my ass.

"Good morning, sweetie. Come on in and close that door."

Doing as she says, I take the seat she gestures to, crossing my ankles and tucking my hands between my thighs to stop nervous fidgeting.

"Now, this is just a regular review to see how you've gotten along in your first six weeks here, okey-dokey?"

My shoulders relax ever so slightly before she continues.

"And having reviewed your work first hand, I can see it is exemplary. So much so, in fact, we might be considering re-assigning you elsewhere."

My mouth drops open unbecomingly before I gather my wits.

"May I ask why, Martha? Alex would have definitely told me if he was unhappy with my work thus far.”

I'm not averse to having a new boss, and though I think Alex might not be thrilled, maybe this is my chance to get off the management floor and away from the incessant rumour mill.

"Well, Liv, to be honest, your work is excellent. Impeccable, in fact. Your presence has boosted office morale on the entire twenty-fifth floor. All management adores you and would happily take you on as their own, as they can clearly see what a diligent worker you are. On a side note, do you know the last time we all went for Friday drinks after work to celebrate a new employee's first month on the job?"

Her eyes twinkle with delight as she goes on. "I'll give you a hint."

Leaning forward furtively, she winks. "Never. And that was because of you. Everyone gravitates toward you. Even Ryan, and he's as set in his ways as they damn well come!"

I can't stop the small giggle that escapes me as she hoots at her own joke. This meeting is looking way better than I'd initially thought.

"Liv, sweetie, I really feel your talent is wasted where you are, not to mention that you are entirely overqualified for the position you're filling."

I'm seriously considering talking to Alex about it until the next words leave her mouth.

"So, what do you say? Will you move upstairs and work under Henry?"

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Olivia

I nearly lose my breakfast, and my eyes almost fall out of my head from how wide I've opened them, but she goes on, lowering her voice confidentially, which is complete overkill considering the office door is fully closed.

"Olivia, I know you're bound to be hesitant after… well, to be honest, after the events of Saturday's Gala. However, I can assure you, Henry is the very picture of a gentleman. Your presence would be invaluable to him. He's found it hard to retain a PA, though I think you'd be the ideal person for the position."

I snort internally as my mind flashes to his penis rammed down Andi's throat.

Yeah, he's found it hard because he can't quit fucking them.

"So… what do you say, honey?"

It's clear that she thinks I'll just jump at the chance like anyone else in their right mind would. But I just can't. My head is telling me I need to stay as far away from him as humanly possible for the well-being of my irrational, incompetent heart.

"Umm, I… I… Martha, I don't think that's a great idea." My stupid mouth won't work right.

I could scream from the frustration this ass causes me.

"I… I'm flattered, b-b-b-but I am friends with Alex, um, the other Mr DeMarco, and I would hate to leave him in the lurch right now."

My face is puce with a concoction of anger, distress, and self-frustration at my inane word vomit. I need to get out of here before I lose my fucking rag.

Returning to full-on business mode as I've effectively shut her down, Martha is the very picture of sincerity. "Well, Liv, I'll relay your concerns to Mr DeMarco. He hand-picked you for the position, you know. After reviewing your performance last week, and between us girls, I believe he asked you to dance on Saturday to get a feel for how you two would get along on a professional level."