Page 47 of Miss Manage

Because part of me wanted more, wanted to believe Gabriel when he said it could be simple. That once the promotion dust settled, we’d find our way forward. But I knew better. Titles and competition had a way of shifting the foundation of a relationship, of turning affection into resentment. Frankly speaking, there was no way I became the permanent CEO, and Gabriel wouldn’t feel bitter about it.

And I wasn’t above letting my feelings sabotage a chance for the relationship, either. If he got the position, I wasn’t sure I could stomach sitting across a dinner table listening to him talk about running the company into which I’d poured years of sweat and tears.

Michelle shook her head. “Bullshit, Char. You don’t have men spend the night at your house for a one-time thing. Has Daniel ever seen your bedroom? Has any man since Steven?”

I rolled my eyes because of course she was right. I didn’t invite men into my home. Until Gabriel. But then again, he’d already met my son. And now my mother. The lines weren’t just blurring, they were eroding fast. It left me uneasy.

“I don’t need the complication. And that’s assuming he doesn’t submarine me with a call to HR.”

Her teasing faded, replaced by a sharp frown. “You’re worried about him reporting you?”

“Maybe, maybe not. I don’t know.” I wanted to trust him. I really did.

“If he does, he’s a bigger loser than your ex.”

“Thanks for reminding me my track record with relationships isn’t exactly inspiring.”

She nudged me with her shoulder. “Hey, not like my love life is any better. At least you came out with the most awesome kid on the planet.”

“This is true.” My sister might not have plans to have kids in the future, but I did wish she could find a life partner who valued her passion for life and adventure.

“So what’s the plan for tomorrow?”

I blew out a breath. “It’ll be business as usual…unless it’s not.”

The question was whether I could keep it the former.