Page 46 of Alex

Thankfully, the contract is done and over with. Not to mention, in the past. I’ve already received a follow up email from the lawyer saying he submitted it this morning and things should stay right on schedule.

So at least the extremely late night wasn’t a complete waste of time.

Getting up from my temporary desk, I traipse to the enormous kitchen and make a beeline to the stainless steel coffee maker. It’s way too fancy forwhat I need, but I make quick work of the auto make feature.

After clicking the button for extra bold flavor, the machine grinds the beans and prepares my coffee. The rich aroma is an instant wake up call.

I inhale deeply, enjoying the scent of the dark coffee.

The kitchen door opens, causing me to turn around and meet Alex’s gaze. He stares at me for a moment before saying, “You should probably take a nap instead of getting caffeinated.”

I wish I could take a nap, but I’m not related to the boss. “I can’t. There’s still a lot of work to do.”

Alex rolls his eyes and huffs. “You’ve already done your fair share for the day. Hell, for the week.”

It’s not that simple, and he knows it.

“My job doesn’t stop just because I’m tired.”

“Maybe not, but there should be boundaries and a clear quitting time.” His gaze is dark and menacing, like he’s not going to give up on this battle. Not anytime soon, at least.

“In order to keep the business running smoothly, I have to work long hours.”

He stalks over to me. “I’m not saying work part-time hours. Hell, I’m not even saying to only work forty hours.”

He reaches out with both hands, cupping my face with one and my waist with the other. “You shouldn’t be working sixty to eighty hours a week.”

I sigh, not wanting to argue, but also not knowing what to say. “Why is it such a big deal foryou? Why does it matter how many hours I work a week?”

Alex glances toward the table where we ate the fettuccine Alfredo and garlic bread. When his gaze returns to mine, it’s different. Less harsh than before.

“Because I don’t want to see you like this. Overworked and resorting to an espresso shot before lunchtime.”

His lips tighten into a thin line, like there’s more he wants to say, but he’s holding back.

Why wouldn’t he just say what’s on his mind?

“I’ll be fine. I shouldn’t have many nights like last night.” Hopefully, none for the rest of this week.

“I’ll make sure that never happens again.” He turns around and storms off.

Shit. What is he planning?

I grab my coffee and head back to my office. Whatever Alex is planning, I want no part of it.

But clearly he’s wanting to spend more time with you.

Work comes first. I need this job, and I need the money more than I need a relationship right now.

It’s been nice being with Alex over the past week and a half, but I don’t have a bank account full of money as a backup plan to losing my job.

My computer dings with an instant message. Seeing it’s from Mr. Strickland, I immediately open it and read the brief message.

Please come to my office when you are available.

I gulp down my coffee, burning my throat in the process, before replying to Mr. Strickland.

On my way, Sir.

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