Page 19 of Bling

“I’m glad Darren is gone,” Isabelle murmured.

“Did he do something to you? Do we need to add harassment to his record?” The concern in Garrett’s voice was comforting.

“No. Nothing like that. Not really. He was just a bit sleazy. Never did anything to me. I told him off the first time he cracked an inappropriate joke, but I know some of the other women weren’t so quick to stand up for themselves.”

Garrett’s fist clenched and unclenched. “That is unacceptable. Is there anyone else on staff who behaves that way?”

Isabelle shifted uncomfortably.

“Tell me, Isabelle. Tell me now.”

She jerked her head toward the door. “Jason has a habit of ‘accidentally’ brushing up against women when he’s on the floor. I’ve also caught him watching porn on his tablet in the break room a few times.”

Fury flashed in Garrett’s eyes as he stood to open his door, presumably to call Jason in. Isabelle stopped him. “Please don’t. I already feel like I got Darren fired. Please don’t make me point fingers at Jason too. Fire him if you want, just wait until I’m gone. I’ve been through enough this week, don’t you think?”

Garrett’s shoulders slumped and his features softened with concern. “Of course. I’m sorry, I’m an asshole. I just don’t tolerate that kind of behavior at work. It’s unacceptable. So, will you take the job?”

Isabelle gave a slow nod. “I will.”

Garrett grinned. “Good. When can you start?”

“Tomorrow?” she said hesitantly.

“Excellent. I’ll see you bright and early then.”

Isabelle stood. “Um. What do I wear? I’m used to jeans and t-shirts on the floor.”

Garrett looked down at his suit. “I suppose I’m a bit overdressed for a warehouse, aren’t I? Business casual is fine.”

“I like the way you’re dressed,” she blurted. Her hand clapped over her mouth and she felt her face grow hot.

Garrett flashed her his signature grin. “I’m glad you approve, Miss Alvarado. I’ll have to keep that in mind.”

“Since I’m embarrassing myself, what do we do about Solitaire? Can I work for you and still be your trainee as a house submissive?”

Garrett shoved a hand into the pocket of his slacks. “Do you still want to be mine, Isabelle? Or do you still need space?”

Isabelle gave a mirthless laugh. “If I’m working for you, I’m not exactly getting space, am I?”

Garrett perched on the corner of his desk. “I’ve promised to keep my distance. I travel a lot anyway. That’s the point of hiring you.”

Isabelle rubbed at the back of her neck. “That’s true.”

“Don’t think I didn’t notice you ignored my first question.”

She squirmed as his gaze became steely, and that air of dominance she’d grown so attracted to surrounded him. How did all the Doms at Solitaire seem to know how to flip that switch on and off so quickly?”

“I don’t know what I want. I see now that you weren’t malicious in your decision making. You’re working hard to make it right and I appreciate it. Can we get through this week and talk again this weekend?”

Garrett’s demeanor relaxed. “Of course, Doll. That’s reasonable.”

“Thank you. I’m sorry I’m so complicated.”

Garrett chuckled. “The best things usually are.” He glanced at his watch. “I don’t want you to leave, but I need to get on a conference call and clear my schedule for the next week or two. I’ll see you in the morning?”

Isabelle stood. “I’ll be here.”

Feeling lighter than she had in a few days, she made her way to the car.

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