AllFreeNovel
Share Us
You know…I’d forgotten that I’m an independent contractor.
That’s how much time Gabriel and I have spent with each other working on the project for the past few months. We’ve been through a lot, from hating each other to pushing personal feelings aside so we could work, and now—
He’s the man that I love.
I haven’t told him yet because—as silly as it sounds—I want to confess tomorrow. It’s a special night for both of us, and I know there’ll not be another chance as perfect as tomorrow night.
“What do you say, hmm?” He pouts a bit. “Will you work for me? Full-time? I promise I’ll pay you handsomely.”
I pause for a moment, trying to think of the best way to decline without hurting his feelings.
“I like knowing that I control that area of my life. I know you’ll treat me well, but there are areas where we’ll clash and as time goes on I don’t want that to spoil what we have.”
To his credit, Gabriel takes the rejection well. He smiles sadly.
“I understand. You would be invaluable, but I like the idea of you making your terms wherever you go because you’re that good.”
“Thank you,” I say sincerely.
“So, are you still nervous, or do I have to kiss your worry away?”
I smack my lips and pucker them playfully.
“Kiss. I need something to take away the anxiety, and you’re perfect for that.”
Gabriel places his hand on his chest in mock horror.
“You’re saying that you want to use me. Is that all I’m good for? Just a pair of lips that can kiss—”
“Shh,” I put my finger to his lips. “You’re useful, that’s all that matters, Mr. Everhart. Not everyone gets to mush their lips to mine, now get over here.”
He looks at me without breaking eye contact or saying anything for several seconds, then breaks out laughing, throwing his head back.
“Oh, I see” he inhales between bursts of laughter. “You’re funny, Miss Quinn. You have a great sense of humor.”
I shrug with pride.
“Why do you think I make you laugh in bed?”
“Oh,” he wiggles his brows. “Speaking of bed, there is another flat surface we could use.”
“And what is that?”
The door is thrown open before Gabriel can respond, and Caleb walks in, a bunch of files in a pile in one hand.
“Good afternoon, everyone,” he announces. “I’m back.”
Gabriel rolls his eyes.
“I was going to demand your resignation letter and employ Harper in your place, but you’re lucky she’s a freelancer.”
Caleb drops the files with a thud on Gabriel’s desk, turns to me with his hands clasped, and bows deeply.
“Thank you for saving my job. I will be forever in your debt.”
“Your gratitude is not sincere,” Gabriel snickers as I chuckle, amused by their display. “But we have matters to discuss, so pull up a chair.”
I stand up, wanting to give them the room to discuss.
