‘And last week? I suggested we move the vendor meeting to accommodate their schedule, and he said – and I quote – “I don’t recall asking for your input on scheduling”. In front of the entire team.’
‘Ouch.’
Got it.The fabric care kit was on the top shelf.
I grabbed the ladder and dragged it to the other side of the room.
‘All this just because I mistook his cab for mine, called him a dick for being rude – which he was – and implied he was following me around, which, again, seemed like it. Mind you, this was allbeforeI started working for him,’ I said. ‘And I’ve been trying so hard since, but it’s like he’s decided I’m incompetent, and now everything I do is doubly scrutinised. I swear—’
‘Ahem.’
I whirled around.
Jai.
My eyes widened in horror. ‘Rhea, I need to go.’
Had he heard us? For how long had he been standing there?Oh God, no. He definitely heard me complaining and calling him a dick.Again.
He entered the room, his eyes trailing down my form to the ladder, and then to the messy desk. ‘We need to go to the marketing meeting.’
‘But I’m not done—’
‘Now.’
‘I didn’t even know I was supposed to be in it. Where’s Kavita?’ I turned and reached for the kit.
I can put it by the gift box and save someone else the trouble.
‘Why do you always ask a hundred questions before moving?’ he countered, the frustration evident in his tone.
‘Why do—’ My foot slipped. A shriek escaped my lips as I tilted sideways, the kit slipping from my hand.
Then, everything stopped.
Hard chest. Warm hands. An unmistakably fresh and woody scent.
My hands flew out, grabbing Jai’s shoulders for balance. His hands were at my waist, andmy chest landed against his as he cushioned
my fall.
We both froze.
My face was level with his collar. I didn’t look up.Couldn’tlook up.
Because if I did, I’d have to see his expression. And I already knew what I’d find there. Disappointment. Anger. The look that said I’d confirmed every low expectation he had of me.
‘Careful,’ he said, his voice low.
I forced myself to step back.
His hands stayed at my waist for half a second, probably making sure I was steady, then fell away.
‘I’m fine.’ I bent down quickly, snatching up the fallen materials. My hands were shaking. I straightened and shoved the kit onto the desk. ‘I’m sorry,’ I muttered, not looking at him. ‘And ... thank you.’
‘It’s fine.’ He cleared his throat and straightened his suit. ‘We need to go.’
I grabbed my phone. He was already at the door.
