Page 40 of Changing Lanes

“Where do we stand right now, Torrence?” My father wants updates every five minutes on this project.

“It’s looking good. Finalizing everything today,” I say as I roll my eyes. “You know, I am COO of this company. You sent me here because you knew I’d get the job done. So let me do it, please.”

“Until you’re CEO, you’ll continue to answer to me,” he states firmly.

“Fine. I need to get moving.” I end the call before he can with a huff. I need to close this project with exactly what my father is expecting, a hotel. He’ll never retire, leaving me the company, if I don’t. I’ll bite the bullet and work with Brannon, getting the job done is all that matters.

If memory serves me, he doesn’t have a problem pleasing me. Damn it, why am I even thinking about him? He was always an amazing lover, making sure I was taken care of before finding his own release.

I looked at him like I could fuck him on the table in front of everyone. I need to remember I hate him, well like I should hate him. I was stunned to see him. Absolutely, I was dumbfounded to have seen him after all this time.

If I can arrange for us to stay away from each other, we can get it done. I’m sure One can help us plan to stay apart. If we have to be together, we’ll do it with others around. Picking up my phone, I decide I have a call to make.

“Hello,” One answers.

“Hi, it’s Torrie. Do you have a minute?” Asking a mundane question gives me another minute to collect my thoughts.

He doesn’t pause, he’s attentive immediately. “Yes, of course. How can I help you?”

Clearing my throat, I explain what I need to have done. “It’s about Brannon. I’m thinking if we can manage to not allow his expenses to register on my father’s radar and keep him far away from me, we can get this done. The sooner, the better.”

He’s silent for a moment, I know they’re odd requests. “Well, all we can do is try. I can add his fee as one of my employee’s. I appreciate the fact you want to try.”

“Thank you for understanding. The entire thing is awkward, it’ll be nice to lay it out and move past it. I need this job done.” Although, if he tries to kiss me, all bets are off. Ugh, why did I think about that?

One interrupts my thoughts, “May I ask something?”

Oh, no. Here it comes. “Sure.” Please don’t.

“What happened between you and Brannon?” One’s words have more impact on me than I’m ready for, but I answer anyway.

“He broke my heart.” And so much more.

“I understand. Let’s try to make this as painless as possible. I’ll see you tomorrow, noon.” One ends the call.

I toss and turn all night, the next morning, I’m up, getting ready early. I want to look my best if I have to be around him. I opt for a business casual, navy shift dress. Solid top with a navy and white polka dot pattern on the bottom and navy kitten heels with a wide belt.

I style my hair into a French twist, allowing a few stray pieces to frame my face. I keep my makeup neutral, with a tinted lip. I take a long look in the mirror, I look good. Although knowing I’m a mess inside, I put on a brave face.

Arriving at the office a little early, I check my face and hair, then walk in. Brannon is already here, and he looks angry as hell. He also looks like he hasn’t slept in days, good. Now he knows how I felt when he left me.

Thayer notices me and is the first to speak. “Hi, Torrie. It’s good to see to you. If you’ll follow me, we’ll go ahead into the conference room.” She waves me through, past Brannon.

I glance in his direction while she’s talking, and he’s gawking at me. His mouth hangs open, as his eyes run wild up and down my body. I’ve never felt so wanton, so sexy as I do right now. His appraisal is approving from the fire in his eyes.

“Thank you. Good afternoon,” I offer as I pass Brannon by, smirking at his facial expression.

“Are you okay?” Thayer asks.

“I am. He looks like he hasn’t slept.” Motioning to where Brannon sits.

“Oh, does he? I hadn’t paid attention but now that you mention it, he does look tired.” Thayer assesses him.

One walks out of his office, pausing to talk to Brannon. I know he’s telling him to play it cool, to be nice. Brannon’s still on his phone. I consider it rude and unprofessional, but it’s One’s business. They saunter into the meeting, One with his file in his hand and Brannon with his head down.

“Good day, everyone. I think we all understand why we’re here. I just want to assure you both we’ll try to limit your time together after this meeting.” One takes a small stack of paper out of the folder as he speaks then passes them around the table.

We both nod, looking at One as we both grab the same paper. Glancing up at each other, Brannon drops his end. I take the paper, and he takes the next the one. It’s a schedule of events. What days we need to be where and if we have to be together.