AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Mr. Cassinetti? This is not the first time I’ve heard people addressing him this way, even when he’s not present. I knew him as Gio before, so it has never occurred to me to call him differently.
Maybe I should. If nothing else, it would put the rumors to rest. Not that there are any. I’m sure Tully voiced her concern only to me. I hope.
“He’s not the warmest person—”
Portia bursts into laughter. “No argument there. I know your focus is media, Mila, but I need you to humanize him as well. With all the shit thrown his way, he has removed himself from personnel interactions, but with Marnie on bed rest and me tied up here… Well, I know he is rusty in that department.”
“I thought he just doesn’t enjoy peopling.” I shrug.
“There is that, but after the lawsuits he’s just not interested in dealing with employees. He’s more the numbers guy, and lets others manage people.”
“Lawsuits?” I straighten up, a bit too eager probably.
“I’m not the one to gossip. Anyway, please make sure he turns on some charm. Or leadership, I should say.” She shakes her head, as if annoyed by herself.
“Okay. I have to get ready—we’re flying out soon. I’ll send you a quick update after breakfast, before the event starts.”
“Great. Good luck today.”
I dress quickly and apply a little makeup before tossing my hair into a messy bun. Throwing my things haphazardly into the suitcase, I end up with ten minutes to spare. Internet search it is.
What skeletons do you have in your closet, Giovanni Cassinetti? I roll my eyes at the social media posts, and gossip site photos of him with a socialite, model or influencer on his arms.
Even Audrey posted yesterday’s catch. Argh. Oh, and Claudia, his latest fling, responded. Cat fight!
Finally, I scroll deep enough, and bingo! Three years ago, several women came forward claiming sexual harassment. There isn’t much coverage for such juicy news. Someone did a good job cleaning up the mess.
All I find out is that no evidence was found, and Gio settled out of court with all these women. He paid them off? Is this where Tully is coming from? Portia didn’t seem concerned at all.
He has his dates set up by Lydia. He is rude more than anything else. I run my fingers over the keyboard.
I just found out about Gio’s sexual harassment cases. Do you know anything about it? Xoxo Mils.
I pace for a moment, but Gina must be busy. As I push my carry-on through the door, my phone rings.
“Well, stranger, you don’t as much as call me about your fabulous job, and now this text?” Gina says.
“I’m sorry. I was a bit upset you got me the job. It made me feel—”
“Don’t go there, Mils. You wouldn’t have the opportunity if you didn’t deserve it.”
I sigh. “Thank you. For the job as well.” I hit the elevator call button with my elbow.
“I asked Massi and he says it was all a scheme to get money out of him, but he didn’t give me more details. Is everything okay?”
The door opens and I barely squeeze in. Where are all these people going this early? “Yes, yes. It just surprised me, that’s all. Listen, I have to go, but I’ll call you later.”
As I step into the lobby, my eyes meet with Gio’s, the impatient tick in his jaw prominent.
“You’re late,” he growls, and turns to leave.
Good morning to you too.
* * *
The employees in Santa Barbara are somewhat more welcoming than expected, and the breakfast goes off without a hitch. Gio is stiff and aloof, but he answers all questions, awarding people with the respect they deserve.
Well, everyone besides me. I deserve only growls and glowers today. Seriously, the man is exhausting.
