by E. L. Todd
Kyle stared at me, concern in his eyes. He kept his word and didn’t question my odd behavior. I closed my eyes and leaned against him, enjoying the protection for a small moment in time. I knew I had to take care of myself and not rely on anyone else, but a short moment of weakness was necessary.
After we came to my door, he stopped and stared at me.
I fidgeted with keys then unlocked the door. I hated myself for what I was about to do, but I had to admit it. I was terrified. What are the chances that John showed up to the same restaurant twice in a row? I didn’t know what to do. I hated being scared but I couldn’t stop myself. I was the worst person in the world. I hated myself more than ever. “Would you like to come inside?” I whispered.
“I do if you want me to.”
I nodded.
“Okay,” he said gently.
We came inside then sat on the couch. Kyle constantly watched me, staring at the fear etched onto my face. I couldn’t hide my anxiety so I avoided his look whenever possible. When I put my purse on the table, Kyle grabbed me and pulled me into a hug.
The feel of his strong chest made me feel calm.
“Breath with me,” he whispered into my ear.
I concentrated on the rise and fall of his chest, staying in tune with it. His strong arms kept me warm. I rested my head against his chest and wrapped my arms around his waist. When I closed my eyes, I started to feel calm.
“You’re safe with me,” he said.
I squeezed him tighter.
He stayed still and held me tightly. Minutes passed but neither one of us moved. Finally, I pulled away, feeling my heart return to a normal state.
“You can go now. I’ll be fine,” I said.
He stared at me, his hands falling to his sides. “I would like to stay if that’s okay.”
“You would?”
He nodded. “I’ll cook us something.”
“A free meal?” I asked with a smile.
Kyle smiled then turned to the kitchen. He looked in the refrigerator for a while. “You have some odd things in here.”
“I do not.”
“Why are there two cartons of expired milk?”
I shrugged. “I forgot to throw them away.”
“Twice?” he asked incredulously. “And what’s vegan cream cheese?”
“It’s good.”
“Then why is there whole block of it and it’s expired? If it was good, you would have eaten it.”
“Okay, stop insulting my refrigerator.”
“I’m not. I’m insulting you,” he said with a laugh. He grabbed a bag of bread then looked at it. “This is covered in mold.”
“I haven’t gone grocery shopping in a while…”
“Yeah, I figured,” he said sarcastically. He grabbed the trash and put everything inside. “Let’s get to the store.”
“No, it’s fine.”
“Fine?” he asked. “You have no food here.”
“Well, I just quit my job and I rely on tip money. It’ll have to wait until I get paid.”
“I’ll cover you,” he said quickly.
“No,” I snapped. “I don’t need you to buy me food.”
He stilled at the venom in my voice. “You can pay me back.”
“I have money saved. I can always use that even though I avoid it at all costs.”
“So what are you going to eat?”
I shrugged. “There’s some crackers somewhere.”
He rolled his eyes. “I’m buying you food. You can pay me back when we get paid.”
“I said no.”
He marched to me then stared me down. “You’re the most stubborn person I’ve ever met.”
“I won’t refute that.”
“Then I’ll order a pizza and have it delivered.” He pulled out his phone and ordered it. Then he walked to the couch and sat down. “You’re really annoying, you know that?”
“That makes two of us.” I sat beside him then turned on the TV.
He leaned back and glanced at me every few minutes. “I can sleep here if you want.”
“No, I’ll be okay.”
“I don’t mind.”
“No,” I said quietly. “That’s unnecessary.”
The tension picked up between us but nothing was said. I waited for him to interrogate me but he didn’t. I was glad he kept his word to me. The last thing I wanted to do was talk about John. I was so embarrassed that I’d ever been in that situation, let a guy be abusive to me. It was a secret I’d take to the grave. Only my girlfriends knew, and neither one of them would tell a soul. I knew Kyle would think less of me if he knew my secret. Anyone would.
We watched a comedy show in silence but neither one of us laughed. I wasn’t paying attention because I was thinking of other things. Kyle didn’t think the show was funny or his wind was also wondering.
When it was almost midnight, I couldn’t keep my eyes open. I was exhausted but I was afraid to go to sleep. What if John figured out where I lived and came after me? “It’s getting late,” I whispered. “You should go.” I kept my head on the arm rest with a blanket covering me.
Kyle grabbed me and pulled me toward him, making me rest against his chest. I was too tired to argue. It felt wonderful having the strength of his chest against my face. I felt safe, comfortable, and warm. He smelled amazing, and the feel of his arms around me made me relax enough to fall asleep.
7
The smell of fresh coffee woke me up the next morning. I opened my eyes and looked across the room.
Kyle was standing at the counter, wearing a new suit and looking sharp. His hair had been washed and he looked clean and refined. “Good morning,” he said. “How do you take your coffee?”
“Black,” I said with a weak voice.
He grabbed the cup and brought it to me.
After I took a sip, I stared at him suspiciously. “Where did you get this?”
“The store.”
“When did you go?”
“This morning,” he answered.
The toaster went off and two slices of bread popped up.
“You went grocery shopping?” I put the cup down and walked to the refrigerator. There was food placed everywhere. There were two gallons of milk, a carton of eggs, cheese, chicken, fresh fruits and veggies. I slammed the door shut. “You fucking asshole.”
“Asshole?” he asked, stepping toward me.
“I told you not to buy my groceries and you fucking did it anyway.”
He glared at me, his shoulders tensing. “Get over it.”
“Excuse me?”
“I gave you a job when you needed one, I’ve been nothing but respectful to you, I bought you food so you wouldn’t survive off saltines, and I stayed at your apartment last night because you clearly needed me even though I’ll never know why. Yeah….I’m such a fucking asshole.” His gaze burned into mine, making me cower back. “You’re welcome, by the way.”
I sighed. “I’m sorry.”
“What was that?”
“I said I was sorry.”
“For what?” He crossed his arms over his chest.
“For calling you an asshole. You’re right. You’ve been very nice to me even though I’ve been a jerk most of the time.”
He nodded. “I accept your apology. But you need to learn how to ask for help when you need it. Forget your pride and be honest with yourself.”
“I did ask for help.”
“No, you didn’t. You asked me to do something blindly. You didn’t tell what it was for or why you’re scared. You’re still hiding and you need to be honest with yourself. I had no idea what I was getting into, but I trusted you and did as you asked. Now you need to trust me.”
“You said you wouldn’t bring it up again.”
“I’m not,” he said quickly. “I’m just saying you need to start trusting me and not flip out when I buy you some goddamn groceries.”
“I’ll pay you back,” I whispered.
“It doesn’t matter if you d
o or don’t.”
I stared at him, crossing my arms over my chest. It was silent as we stood together. I didn’t know what to say.
“I’m waiting.”
“For what?”
“You know what.”
I lowered my hands to my sides. “Thank you.”
He smiled. “That’s better.” Kyle wrapped his arms around my waist and held me to his chest, resting his head on top of mine. His hands ran up and down my back then moved to the back of my neck where he played with my hair. I placed my hands around his waist and felt the definition of his back and stomach. He was thick and solid, stronger than a tank. I enjoyed the moment and just let him hold me, forgetting about the drama of my life.
When I dropped my hands and stepped away, he pressed his face against mine.
“We should get to work,” he whispered.
“I know. I don’t want to be late on my second day.”
“Good thing I’m the only one who would know about it.”
“Yeah,” I said with a light laugh.
“You still going to the game with me tonight?”
“I wouldn’t miss it for anything.”
“Maybe we should make it interesting.”
“What are you thinking?” I asked with a smile.
“If the Yankees win, I want you to come over and have dinner with me so I can show you my moves on the piano.”
“And if the Giants win?” I asked.
“That’s up to you.”
“You’ll be in the Color Run with me and my friends.”
“You want me to run a half marathon?” he asked with a laugh.
“What could be more painful than that?” I said as I placed my hands on my hips.
He extended his hand. “You’ve got yourself a deal.”
I shook it. “I hope you have some good running shoes.”
“I hope you like good food and music.”
“Are you having crackers?” I teased.
He laughed. “You’re in for a treat.”
I walked into my bedroom and got ready for the day then emerged into the living room. Kyle stared at my body, noticing the curves and lines of my dress. He didn’t comment on it but his thoughts were as clear as crystal. The heated gaze didn’t bother me. In fact, I liked it in an odd way. Ever since he said I had a nice body, my self-esteem had increased. He was gorgeous and perfect so I was surprised he would be attracted to me. I wasn’t hideous or anything, but I definitely wasn’t on the same level as he was.
“I like that dress,” he said.
“Thank you.”
“Red is a good color on you.”
I felt my cheeks redden. “Thanks.”
He grabbed his bag and we left my apartment, taking a cab to work.
“Should we go inside at different times?” I asked when we reached the building.
“Why?”
“So people don’t assume we’re together.”
“Who cares if they do?”
“I do.”
He shook his head. “I don’t care what other people think. If you want to wait and take the next elevator, you go ahead and do that.”
I realized how immature I was being. “Forget it. It’s stupid.”
“It’s really fucking stupid,” he said as we got into the elevator.
The doors closed and we rose up the floors.
Kyle’s mood could change completely and unexpectedly. I felt like I pissed him off as much as he pissed me off. When the doors opened, we walked past Joanna’s desk.
“Hey, new girl.”
“Me?” I asked.
“Yeah, you. Come here.”
Kyle smiled at me. “Have fun making friends.”
I walked over to her. “What’s up?”
“I’m stuck on this level.”
I looked at the computer screen. She was playing solitaire.
“Don’t you do anything else?”
“I answer the phones and stuff,” she said, staring at the screen. “So what do I do?”
“What’s the point in me doing it if you don’t learn anything?”
She rolled her eyes. “You’re one of those people?”
“You bet your ass I am.” I looked at the screen. “There are two card that you could place onto different piles. The card in your deck could be used as well.”
She rubbed her chin while she thought for a moment. “I got it.” She moved the mouse and removed a pile of cards. Then she placed the new card from the deck where it belonged. “Thanks, new girl.”
“Anytime. This is what I went to college for,” I said sarcastically.
“Well, that was money well spent,” she snapped.
I laughed. “Have a good day, Joanna.”
“See ya.”
I went into my office and started to get to work. When lunchtime came around, I was too busy to take a break. I would rather skip a meal and work than walk away from a project, especially since I was new.
Kyle walked in. “Why haven’t you gone to lunch yet?”
“I’m too busy,” I said without looking at him.
“You’re going to get burned out if you work too much.”
“I said I wouldn’t let you down. I meant it.”
He sighed. “Good thing I went out and got lunch for the both of us.” He placed a bowl of Chinese food in front of me than sat in the chair in front of the desk, eating his own plate.
I looked at him. “You got me food?”
He glared at me.
“I mean, thank you.”
“We had catering in the office,” he explained. “I decided to bring you a plate because I figured you wouldn’t say no to free food.”
“You know me so well.” I pulled the bowl closer to me and ate while I still scrolled through my computer.
Kyle ate quietly, checking his phone every few seconds. He typed messages then played a game. The silence was comfortable and easy. I felt him stare at me sometimes but he didn’t speak. When he was finished, he wiped his mouth with a napkin then grabbed both of our empty bowls. “Have fun,” he said as he walked out.
I finished my work for the rest of the day. When five o’ clock hit, I still wasn’t done. I guess I was just slow. That didn’t sound good.
Kyle tapped on the open door. “Hey. The day is over. Pack up.”
“I still have things to do.”
“They can wait until tomorrow.”
“But—”
“I said let’s go.” He crossed his arms over his chest. “I never let my workers stay overtime unless it’s an emergency. Otherwise, everyone goes home on time. No exceptions.”
I sighed. “Fine.”
“You know, most people would love to have a boss like me.”
I rolled my eyes. “You’re full of yourself, aren’t you?”
“A little,” he said with a smile.
I grabbed my stuff then turned off the lights before we walked out. He placed his hands in his pockets while he walked beside me, staring straight ahead. He towered over me, making me feel small even though I wore heels.
“Hey,” Taylor said as he came up to me. He was wearing a plain suit with a black tie. “How are you?”
“Good. You?”
“Great. You want to get a drink after work?” he asked.
“She’s busy,” Kyle snapped.
My eyes widened at the aggression in his tone.
Taylor stepped back. “Just trying to be friendly.”
Kyle glared at him before he walked off.
When we walked inside the elevator, I immediately rounded on him. “What the hell was that? Just because I don’t want to date you doesn’t mean you should get angry at every guy who tries.”
“What? I’m just looking out for you.”
“Well, I can take care of myself.”
“It didn’t look like it last night.”
I glared at him. “Fuck you.”
His eyes widened. “Don’t talk to me like that.”
“Why? Becaus
e you’re my boss?”
“No,” he snapped. “Because I’m your friend and I care about you. I’ve been trying to get Taylor fired for years. The stupid union laws of the company prevent it from happening. He’s a sick pervert who harasses women, stalks them, and even threatens them. He may seem like a nice guy on the surface, but he’s not. I won’t let him mess with you, Layla. I have a very low tolerance for stuff like that. He isn’t going to hurt any of my workers under my watch. He has a lot of balls to do it right in front of my face.”
I looked at the ground, not knowing what to say.
“When you’re arguing with someone, you look at them.”
I returned my gaze to his.
“If you start an argument, you finish it.” His shoulders were tense and his eyes were bright with anger.
“I’m sorry—again.”
“You’re lucky I’m forgiving you—twice.”
“I didn’t know he was crazy like that. He’s married.”
“That means nothing to him. Unfortunately, it doesn’t mean much to most people. I won’t let him bother you. I really wish you would start trusting me. I’ve been nothing but a gentleman toward you. I understand if you have your guard up, but stop accusing me of such ludicrous things.”
“You’re right. I’m sorry.”
He stared at the doors as they opened. A moment later, he stepped out. “I’ll pick you up in an hour.”
“Okay.”
“I can walk you home.”
“No, it’s okay.”
He stared at me for a long time. “You can call me for anything, Layla. I just want you to know that.”
“I do,” I whispered.
He stepped toward me and hugged me, making me feel safe all over again. “I’ll see you soon,” he whispered into my ear. Kyle released me then walked up the street, blending in with the crowd.
When I came back to my apartment, Cassie and Janet were standing by the front door.
“What are you guys doing here?” I asked.
“Isn’t it wine night?” Janet asked, holding up her bottle.
“Oh yeah. I totally forgot,” I said.
“How could you forget? It’s the best night of the week,” Cassie said.