Page 84 of My Favorite Boss

“Laura told me she had a reference call about her. Her work is fine, so she gave her a positive one. I hope she moves on. I’d be happy to get her out of the office. Maybe once she’s gone, the others will grow up some.” He tickled Hedgy’s chin. “I still think the courses are good for everyone, but it pleases me to think she won’t be around to torment you.” He lifted his eyes to mine. “You don’t deserve that.”

“No one does.”

“You, especially.”

“Why?”

He frowned. “Because of who you are, Magnolia. Everyone likes you. You’re kind, conscientious, good at your job. You care for those around you. That should be celebrated, not ridiculed.”

I smiled at his words. “Is that your professional or personal opinion?”

“Professional. My personal one is much more…personal.”

“Oh?”

He grinned, setting Hedgy on the sofa beside him and pulling me onto his lap so I straddled him.

“You’re everything I said before, but also sexy, funny, witty. Exasperating. Sexy.”

“You already said that.”

“It stands being repeated. I have never wanted a woman as much as I want you. You’re on my mind constantly.”

I linked my arms around his neck. “Is that a fact?”

He kissed me, nuzzling my lips softly. “Yes, it is. Undisputed.”

Our gazes locked, the heat between us building. His grip on my hips tightened, his erection growing between us. He pulled me closer, covering my mouth, stroking my tongue with his. I whimpered as he cupped my ass, then I giggled as a small ball of fur wiggled between us, meowing and purring as he crawled up to Alex’s shoulder. For a moment, Alex stilled, his head thrown back as he found his patience.

“Is that what is going to happen from now on? Cockblocked by a cat?” he asked dryly.

I slid from his knee. “I’ll put him in his room. Go do your work.”

“I’d rather do you.”

I winked. “Something to look forward to.”

He grumbled all the way to his office. I fed and petted the kitten, but as soon as I put Hedgy down, he raced to the open door, disappearing down the hall, and I heard Alex’s admonishing. “No! Down! Hedge, I said—dammit, stop licking my face and making that infernal noise.”

A few moments later, I peeked in then left them alone. Hedgy was on Alex’s shoulder, his eyes already shut. Alex had given up and was working on his laptop. Hedgy looked happy. Alex looked resigned.

But I noticed he didn’t call me to come and take him.

Chapter Eighteen

MAGNOLIA

“Have I mentioned you look beautiful tonight?” Alex asked, staring at me across the table.

“Not in the last few moments,” I replied with a smile. He had been very vocal since I appeared in the living room, dressed for our date.

“Remiss of me. You are gorgeous. I love the dress.”

I smoothed the silk down my arm. “Thank you.”

“The color is spectacular.”

“I don’t wear red often.”