“Is that so?” He gives a smug grin, and I realize too late that I could have been talking about him.
Us.
He crosses the room towards me. And then he’s lifting me, his lips on mine with a crushing kiss. It’s shockingly familiar, and tempting as hell. I let the folder fall to the floor as I surrender, reaching to lock my arms around his neck and return the kiss.
I draw back, taking his lower lip between my teeth and softly biting down. He groans, his hands caressing my ass, my back, my shoulders. His muscles are tense.
“We should talk about Prescott.” It’s a weak attempt to put the brakes on, but I want to know more.
“Later,” Dom growls. “I want you on your knees, Juliet.”
I’m aware that the door to the room has been left cracked. The sounds of footfalls and conversation come from outside the room.
“Anyone could walk in,” I protest, shocked – and thrilled.
He kisses my neck, his hand finding my breast. “Shy little kitten, all of a sudden?”
A shuddering breath comes out of me as he tweaks my nipple. “Yes.”
We kiss, his hand cradling the back of my neck. “Then go to my office. Take off your clothes and wait for me.”
My pulse leaps. Now? In the middle of the work day?
Dom retrieves the portfolio and hands it to me, his face perfectly blank. “I’m not going to ask again, Juliet. It’s your choice.”
My choice…
My resistance crumbles. No part of me wants to deny him, or myself. I crave a continuation of last night, to find completion. The same part of me that took a risk with him at The Drake makes an appearance, pushing me closer to my desires.
I slowly exit the conference room, feeling his eyes on me. I pause in the hallway. I could go to his office like he ordered – or to the elevator, back down to the lobby. To my internship, and the rest of my work day.
What’s it going to be? I ask myself, but the decision has already been made.
I decided the minute he put his hands on me.
Luckily, the secretaries’ desks are empty as I walk past and open the doors to his office. My brain is on auto pilot now, so intent on giving my body what it wants that I’m not thinking of what I’m about to do anymore. I’m going to get naked. In my boss’s office. And it feels wicked and naughty and—
“Oh!”
I stop at the sound. Shauna is behind Dominic’s desk, her face white.
“What are you doing here?” I clutch the portfolio to my chest. She seems frozen, just like me. We’ve completely scared the shit out of each other.
I look around for Beth or another manager who might have come up here with her, but she’s alone – thank God.
“N—nothing.” Shauna skitters from around the desk, her hands in her pockets. “I was asked to drop off some files. What about you?”
“The same,” I say quickly. I hold up the portfolio Dom thrust into my hands moments ago, glad of the excuse. “I was just taking minutes at the board meeting.”
“Ooh,” Shauna relaxes, her color returning. “Big time management, huh? Was it interesting?”
“Kind of—”
“Shit, I have to run, I’m late already,” Shauna cuts me off. “Tell me all about it later, okay?” And then she’s gone.
Prickles go down the back of my neck, and for a second, I have the urge to follow her. But the memory of Dom is too strong.
He ordered me to get naked…
I carefully check that the door is shut, then I shrug out of my blazer. My fingers find the buttons of my shirt and I slowly pop them one by one. Desire returns, intoxicating. Any moment, Dominic is going to walk in here with his sexy, alpha swagger. His big, warm hands are going to find every inch of my bared skin.
The leather couch… his desk… against the wall, I don’t care. All of them. Any of them, as long as he takes me hard. Fast. And satisfies this relentless fire he started in me.
“There’s only a couple pretty ones in the group this year.”
A woman’s voice comes close to the door, muffled, but stull audible. One of his secretaries, back from her break. I go still, my heart racing. Is someone going to come in?
There are murmurs of agreement, somebody else with her too. “No, no, don’t worry. He went to the penthouse for a few minutes.”
“My money’s on the one with dark hair.” The first voice says again, her tone gossiping. “The one he took to the meeting this morning. She could barely keep up. You know I’m going to have to retake all those notes.”
She’s talking about me.
I pull my shirt closed, and edge closer to listen.
“You’d think he would have learned to stop screwing the interns after it killed his marriage.”
“Well, I have no sympathy for these girls. Either they’re trying to sleep their way up the ladder, or they’re too dumb to realize they’re just a convenient screw. And meanwhile, I’m the one stuck dealing with all the fallout trying to rearrange the schedules to get them out of his way once he’s done fucking and forgetting them.”
What?
I go cold, bile rising in my throat. He’s done this before? With other interns? Plenty, by the sound of the gossip.
I’m just one of a long list, girls too stupid to know any better.
I struggle to button my shirt again and pull my clothing into place. I can’t believe it. I feel so cheap, so used. I’m not special…
But he never said you were.
The truth hits hard. He never made me any promises – only demands to get naked, as soon as fucking possible. Even when I tried to stop, because he was my boss, Dom didn’t seem to mind, he only chased harder.
Because this is what he does. He’s got the routine down to an art.
And this time, I was the fuck-and-forget. I was the dumb bitch, the stupid intern.
I yank on my blazer and wipe tears from my eyes. Listening by the doors, I wait until the voices fade away, then finally make a break for it, hurrying to the elevator without being spotted.
I’ve been so, so stupid.
And it ends right the fuck now.
Chapter Nine
I find a note taped to my locker the next morning that says I’m assigned back to reception today. My phone beeps as I get ready for work.
It’s Dominic.
Yesterday, I finished my shift and went home, cracked a jar of buffalo chicken dip and dug out a bottle of cheap wine. Then my bag of chips, wine and I hid out in my bedroom to watch The Princess Bride and forget the entire day ever happened. Until my phone started blowing up.
I’d like to speak with you.
I erased the message and added the number under ‘Asshat’ in my contacts. Asshat called twice again last night, but I refused to answer, or even listen to his message. I wasn’t going to text or call him back because my mind was made up: I’d been stupid enough. My hormones are not going to ruin my future.
I’ve never known lust like this. But I’ve also never had an opportunity like The Rexford is giving me. I have to choose, and I choose myself.
Now, I turn off my phone and toss it into my locker. I feel a pain in my chest, but I tell myself that’s just the after-effects of too much hot sauce.
Dominic means nothing to me anymore.
“Hey.” Shauna is already on the front desk when I arrive.
“Hi,” I mumble back. She doesn’t say anything about finding me in Dom’s office yesterday, and I’m glad. I’d rather pretend the whole day never happened. I get to work checking in a new guest, and for the next few hours, I stay focused on my job.
Bad enough I already have a reputation. I want to be remembered for more than just being Dom’s latest plaything.
By the time noon rolls around, I’m in my element: dealing with guests, answering calls, even directing a family on a great walking tour of the city. This is what energizes me: challenge, interaction, responsibility. I love it, and I don’t want to lose it.
“Ready for your break
?” Shauna asks, after I equip the family with an armful of pamphlets and maps.
“Please,” I smile, “My feet are killing me.”
Then I see one of the secretaries from Dom’s office approaching. “Juliet Evans?” she asks.
“Yes,” I brace myself.
She sweeps me with a quick glance and I realize, this must be one of the women who was gossiping about me. “Mr. Rexford would like to speak with you in his office. About the notes you took yesterday during the meeting.”
The notes? I’d completely forgotten about them. I stashed them in my locker last night.
I feel a tremor of nerves. I can’t face him, not now that I know the truth. “Please tell Mr. Rexford that I’m unavailable right now.”
The secretary looks surprised. “But… he said for you to come. Now.”
“And you can tell him you delivered his message,” I say brightly. “Thanks.” I pretend to get back to work, feeling her eyes on me, until at last I hear her walk away.
“I can’t believe you just did that.” Shauna looks shocked. “He’s the boss!”
“It’s fine,” I lie. “Go to lunch, Lace.”
She doesn’t move. “He’s a powerful man. Who knows what can happen if you cross him?” She almost sounds… scared. I look at her, trying to read what’s going on in her head.
“You make him sound like a Mafioso,” I joke. “What’s the worst he can do?”
“Fire you!”
Oh yeah, that. I swallow. “If he wants to speak to me, he can come down here and ask me.”
Shauna goes pale as she glances behind me. “I think I will take that lunch.”
I already know before I turn what I’ll find: Dominic heading straight for the desk. I can feel the anger rolling off him, and it gets stronger the closer he gets.
An older couple steps up to the desk like a heaven-sent buffer.
“Welcome to the Rexford!” I chirp, trying to ignore Dom. “How can I help you?”
“We were wondering about our room…” The woman starts chatting about the AC levels and her chesty cough. I keep my eyes fixed on them, nodding along, but I’m painfully aware of Dom loitering just a few feet away, tapping his feet impatiently.
He might be used to getting what he wants, but I’m sick of giving it to him. I’m not quite sure where my resolve went these last few days, but I’m glad it’s back.
“Ms. Evans.” His voice comes, a commanding rumble.
“One moment, please,” I tell him without looking, using the same tone I revert to when I tell callers I’m about to put them on hold. I arrange to get the couple moved to a new room, and throw in complimentary breakfast just for the hell of it. By the time they leave, Dominic is seething.
Poor, spoiled baby.
“How can I help you?” I move to the computer and tap determinedly at the keyboard.
“What happened to you yesterday?”
Dom moves to stand beside me, his hand covering my own on the desk, out of sight. It’s a simple, gentle gesture that contradicts his irritated tone. I glance at our hands, then finally to his face, and I’m struck by expression. He actually looks confused and a little hurt behind the anger.
“I thought—”
I don’t let him finish. I’m not playing anymore, and I’m sure as hell not going to tell him what I overheard his secretaries say. The sting of humiliation is still raw like an open wound.
So I lie.
“I thought it over, Mr. Rexford,” I tell him, snatching my hand away. “And it’s in my best interest if we keep things professional. Strictly professional.”
He holds my gaze, looking wounded. “Is that right?”
“There are other interns you can take under your wing.”
I look for a flicker of recognition that my comment has hit home, but Dom is inscrutable as usual.
“I hope my decision won’t in any way be a detriment to my internship,” I manage to finish, my voice steady. I lift my chin.
Now he looks really pissed.
“You actually think I’d punish you for not sleeping with me?”
My heart flutters, but I hold my ground. “I hope not. But I guess I don’t really know you at all, do I?”
Dom’s mouth twists in a smirk. He leans in, his breath playing hot against my ear.
“Punishment has its place, Juliet. Trust me, when I punish you, you’ll be begging for it.”
I gape at him. I can’t stop the surprise, or the licks of desire that swirl between my legs. This fucking man! I don’t know whether I want to slap him…
Or tear his clothes off and have him show me exactly what he means.
“I’m working,” I manage to bite out. “Was there anything else?”
Dom narrows his eyes. “No. You may continue.”
He stalks off, and I let out a breath of relief. God, just his presence is overwhelming, the pure animal instinct. It makes me remember what he can do with that body – and what pleasure he’s capable of inspiring in my own.
Luckily, Shauna checks back after her break, and I can go splash some cold water on my face. By the time I return for my afternoon shift, I’m back in control – and Dom is nowhere to be seen.
“Welcome to The Rexford,” I greet the next guest. “How can I help you?” I smile, which isn’t hard considering how good-looking this guy is. Tall and tanned, with messy blond hair and friendly blue eyes that look right at me.
“Well, hello to you too. Juliet.” He eyes my name tag. The glint of silver and gold on his wrist catches my eye. Rolex. In a navy blue polo shirt and teal pants, he looks like he’s about to go sailing, or pose for a Polo ad.
“I’d love to book the penthouse, thanks.”
“I’m sorry sir,” I say reluctantly, not bothering with the computer. “The penthouse is booked. Private residence, year-round.”
He makes a show of sighing, but his eyes are full of laughter. “Well, what’s the next best thing you can offer a weary traveler such as myself?”
“We have a fabulous diamond suite,” I say, wondering if he can really afford it. After the penthouse, it’s our most expensive suite, clocking in at over five thousand dollars a night. The handsome guest quirks an eyebrow, so I continue. “Three rooms, vaulted ceilings with a full view of The Magnificent Mile. It includes access to our famed arboretum.”
“I suppose that will do. Second best, as usual.” He reaches for his wallet, and I’m about to ask him his name for the reservation, when he leans in close.
“Just between us, I’m guessing the suite has the same decoration as the rest of this place?”
I’m not sure what he means. “All our rooms are outfitted in a classic, luxurious style.”
“I thought so.” He looks around the grand lobby and makes a face at me. “Nothing’s changed in a century.”
“The Rexford is committed to preserving its historical features,” I say blandly.
“Even history can use freshening, don’t you think?” He gives me an encouraging look. “Indulge me this. If you could change one thing about this place, what would it be?”
I get the feeling he’s flirting with me.
“Well…” I pause, looking around. “Maybe I would change the lighting. The chandeliers look great, but we could use some additional spotlights to really show off the room.”
“True.” He cracks a charming smile. “Dungeon-chic went out in the eighteen hundreds.”
I giggle, warming up now. “And they could replace the carpeting, maybe expose the hardwoods and make it seem more modern. Cut back on all the antique furniture, make it a blank canvas for the rest of the architectural details. It’s kind of busy with all the patterns and upholstery.”
“Busy?” he repeats, laughing now. “My Aunt Daisy would call this place over-done, and she’s got a life-size painting of the Last Supper on her dining room wall.”
He passes his ID over and I smile. “You have a good eye,” he continues. “What else?”
“I… would up the ante
in elegance.” I enter his details automatically, distracted. “Younger crowds don’t want all this gilt edging, that just makes them think of their grandparents.”
“Like Aunt Daisy,” the man smirks.
“Exactly. They like a mix of old and new. We could keep the historic luxury, but incorporate modern products—organic spa products, fair trade linens, even a designer coffee bar. Match or better amenities found in younger hotels.” Like the Prescott, I think. Suddenly aware that I’m rambling way above my pay grade, I close my mouth and turn to the computer. “I’m sorry sir,” I say quickly. “Forget I said anything.”
“Worried the boss will stamp out insurgency in the ranks?” he grins. “It’ll be our little secret. You’re sharp. And, quite lovely.”
I look up in time to see a flirtatious smile. “How about a drink after your shift?” he asks.
I wish I could. But the hotel has a strict anti-fraternization policy – and this guy doesn’t hold a candle to Dominic. Maybe no one will for a long time.
You’ve never been fucked as good as I gave it to you.
Damn him.
I give an apologetic smile. “Thank you. But I have plans after work.”
“A boyfriend?” He tilts his head. “Whoever he is, he’s a lucky bastard to have you so hooked.” His phone buzzes, and he glances at the screen. “I have to take this. But thank you for all your hospitality, Juliet. You’ve been a real help.”
He walks away but I’m not paying much attention. He’s right. I am hooked. Completely, utterly hooked. It’s unnerving, how much I want Dominic – even after everything.
The sexual pull is just too strong.
Was, I remind myself angrily.
It’s over now, for good this time.
It has to be.
Chapter Ten
I arrive at work the next day to find a cop stationed by the front desk – and another two policewomen stationed in the locked room.
“What’s going on?” I whisper to the other interns. They shrug.
“Beats me. We have to go straight upstairs for a meeting,” one of the guys answers.
I stash my purse and follow the group upstairs. Everyone looks super-serious, and even the atmosphere feels different. It’s weighty and thick and lacking the comfortable vibe that’s always pumping through this place. Did someone die?
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