Page 154 of Glitched Play

He hearts it and then he’s gone. It’s funny how people come and go in your life. Like they pop into your life to serve a purpose. Chase was that for me.

I lock my phone and press it against my chest for just a moment.

Maybe yesterday wasn't just the launch of the reimagined e-football league.

Maybe, it was the first time everyone I love finally saw the life I've loved since I was in middle school.

After a shower and considerably more concealer than necessary to hide the fact I barely slept, I step off the elevator onto Synatrix's executive floor.

"Morning, Partner."

I stop. The receptionist grins and it takes me a second to realize she's talking to me.

"Good morning."

As I continue toward my office, congratulations follow me down the hall.

"Fantastic launch."

"The production was incredible."

"My kids stayed up way too late watching."

Every compliment is about the event, about the work, not the kiss. Exactly the way I hoped it would be.

Just before I reach my office, Dara steps out of hers carrying two folders.

"There you are."

"Good morning."

She smiles with an expression I can’t place my finger on. Somewhere between amused and omnipotent. "It is. Witt asked that you see him immediately.”

“Before coffee?” I ask, lip twisting.

“I think you mean dessert. It’s more birthday cake creamer than it is coffee. Now, don’t keep our CEO waiting.”

“Yes ma’am.”

Dara’s grin widens.

I tap on the glass door. And it makes me think about why someone so private and introverted would choose glass walls. I make a mental note to ask him.

“Come in.”

“Hey. It seems like last night was a success. Even my parents are excited for the league. Of course, it was football. If it was a Zelda league, they might not be as gung-ho.”

“You’re rambling. You’re giving Noelle a run for the money,” he says as he presses his hands against the office chair and stands.

“Oh, she likes to talk?”

“She hates silence.”

“But yet…”

He sits on the desk, his sleeves already rolled up, showing his veined arms. My mouth waters and I need to put my professional hat on. His legs are spread and I want nothing more than to walk in between them and give the executives a show.

He clears his throat like he knows what I’m thinking. Sometimes I wish he wasn’t so observant.