But now? For the first time ever, I’m distracted.
And that’s a real fucking problem.
6
ELODIE
The last thing I ever wanted was to end up in the head of HR’s office due to my personal relationships, yet here I am.
But I'm smart, and it is important to do things by the book, especially with Hayes’s high-profile role. HR also has a policy of confidentiality, so I'm not too worried about office gossip.
For a second, I admire Olivia's nude pump heels with her light brown pantsuit. She has fashion sense, and it offers a brief distraction from my nerves. And even though Olivia is from Everhope and we are familiar with one another out of the office, who loves waking up to an email from HR? Not me. Even though it was expected.
“This doesn’t need to be a long meeting,” Olivia says as she sits in her chair, while Hayes and I sit on opposite ends of the sofa in her office meeting area.
“Short and to the point is the best way to do this.” Hayes doesn’t seem too concerned. He’s already fixed his suit as though he will stand to leave any second, as though he can control the time and narrative of this meeting.
Me? I’m not the one who is only one step down from the CEO. I have a long way to go. Even though Haven Crossroads is family-friendly, it doesn’t slip my mind that there must be people in the office who judge me for being a single mom. I’ve had to prove my worth more than others, sometimes. Nowpoof. Hayes enters the picture, and I'm sure they will form theories of favoritism as to how I've excelled in my role.
"Standard procedure," she says, sensing Hayes’s lack of interest. Olivia’s eyes fix on me. She shifts in her seat with a small smile. “I understand the… dynamics of your lives.” Olivia is trying to be tactful.
“I believe we are disclosing our…” How do I label this? I’m mirroring her communication style now. “Relationship as co-parents.”
Hayes clears his throat and gives me a strong glare through side-eye before he turns his attention to Olivia and offers her a more neutral smile. “We have a personal relationship for obvious reasons.”
Really? That’s his label for us? Just ring a bell, let everyone guess what we are.
“We’re here because of formality. Technically, as long as you both disclose your… connection,” her voice is a little uneven, “then you have done what is needed.”
“We are disclosing it to ensure there are no issues. Foster is my manager. Hayes and I are in different departments. I will barely cross paths with Hayes, and we will avoid being seen together in the office,” I assure her.
“Well, that might be a step too far. Being seen together in the office will be happening.” Hayes smirks. “On a professional level, of course.”
Olivia’s eyes travel between us. “Professional it will be,” she reiterates and gawks at him. “Obviously, it would behypocritical for Julian to ban office relationships. But let’s not use Julian and Savannah as the standard.”
“Oh, I will.” Hayes grins, probably because he can only guess they lacked professionalism at times when she was Julian's assistant.
“No.” I shake my head. “No, he won’t. Savannah left after they got together. I’m staying. I’m happy here, it has great benefits for Lola, and I enjoy working with numbers in finance.”
She gives me a soft smile. “I know. Your employee reviews sing your praises.” She spreads her hands up as she lifts her shoulders. “All I can say is you’ve disclosed, and Hayes will never be able to sign off on any project that you are involved in. And discretion is key for you two.” She lowers her arms. “It helps ensure colleagues are put in a comfortable position.”
He raises his brows, and Olivia grimaces at her choice of words. We all let it slide. Hayes stands, brushing his hands down the front of his suit jacket before buttoning it.
“It’s been a pleasure. Formality is now complete.”
“Sure. I’ll send you both a document to sign to confirm we discussed the topic.” She gets up and walks back to her desk.
I release a breath I’ve been holding. Relief. Finally, it’s over.
“There is one more thing since I have you both here.”
“Sure,” I reply.
“Also for consideration down the line, you might need to chat with payroll. For tax reasons and such, it is necessary to ensure that Lola is a dependent on the correct parental health insurance and that family leave coordination is in place for both of you. Those kinds of things.” She says it so easily, but my body tightens, and I bite my lip. Olivia notices mytension. “Just standard when both legal guardians or parents work here… something to think about.”
“Perfect. Have payroll reach out.” Hayes is eager.
Swallowing back my mixed emotions, I’m not sure what I’m feeling. I’m in limbo because he is Lola’s father, yet he isn’t legally her father. He’s assuming, even though the papers haven't been signed yet. But he is very correct; he will have to be. It’s his right. That means there are many implications for our dynamic. Thanks, tax man.
