Page 76 of Twins for the Enemy

“It seems it took you that long to miss me.” I push him back playfully, the camaraderie seamlessly picking up where it left off.

“Well, they say absence makes the heart grow fonder.” He settles onto the couch again, throwing an arm behind it.

“How’s the thrilling world of marketing and advertising treating you?” I ask, joining him.

“You won’t believe what came my way, man. It’s a game-changer!” The enthusiasm is clear in his voice.

“Are you going to make me guess?” I raise an eyebrow, genuinely intrigued.

“We’d be here all day.” Ethan chuckles. “I got a phone call from the CBK headquarters.”

“Uh-oh. They finally caught you stealing all the coffee creamer,” I quip. CBK is an advertising giant. I’ve worked with them a few times. Ethanhas been climbing the ladder quite fast, thus refusing all my proposals to work for me.

“I don’t steal it. I put it in my coffee.” He flashes a grin. “You’re looking at their new COO.”

“What?” I bark out with a smile.

“That’s right. I’ve been working for this my entire life. One step closer to becoming CEO.”

“My last remaining chance of luring you into my company has just sailed away.” I lean back and look at him. “Fuck, Ethan, that’s fantastic news! If anyone can whip them into shape, it’s you.” I offer a congratulatory smile. Ethan is one of the best marketing specialists I know. He was able to rescue a few plummeting companies with just his marketing strategies. I’ve been trying to get him to work for me for the past five years, but the fucker won’t budge.

There’s a quick knock on the door as Bethany pokes her head in without waiting for a response.

“Your cof—”

“Out,” I snap, and her eyes widen for a moment before she collects herself and scurries out.

“That’s why I don’t want to work for you.” Ethan snorts, and I look back at him. “What?” He shrugs. “You’re a fucking menace. The second you pull that shit on me, you can expect to have your face rearranged.”

I huff out a laugh. “When do you start?”

“Well, here’s the kicker.” Ethan’s expression shifts to apprehension. “Adrian, I need a favor.”

“Don’t look so nervous, Ethan. You know I’d give up both my arms for you.” I cock my head to the side.

“What about your precious time and privacy?” He curls a brow, a small V forming between them.

“I’m not sure I’m following.” I narrow my eyes. My time and privacy? What’s he getting at?

“I have to leave in a week for LA, where their headquarters are.” He takes a deep breath and looks at me, searching for a reaction. Despite my joy for him, I’mstruggling to grasp how I fit into this picture. “Well, say something, damn.”

“You’ll have to move.” I guess, and he nods slowly. I lean back, crossing my arms, “You know, I’ve asked you multiple times if you want to work for me, but you’ve always declined.”

“And I’ll keep declining.” He nods matter-of-factly.

“Mm, afraid the famous Turner charisma wouldn’t survive the atmosphere at Morgan Investments?”

“Oh, please.” Ethan laughs. “I can’t risk getting tired of seeing your stupid face every day.”

“My face happens to be perfectly fine to look at.” I lift my chin.

“Oh, so I’ve seen. Is there a single person in this building that doesn’t want to fuck you?” He gestures playfully towards the door.

“I think Jerry, the security guard, might not be so eager.” I suppressa laugh.

“Well, have you given him an opening?” Ethan laughs again. It doesn’t take a genius to know why women love him so much. He’s one handsome devil, the easiest person to get along with, and there’s a colossal brain beneath all that charm. A moment’s silence falls as his smile fades, and he looks at me. Here we go.

“What is this about, Ethan?” I lean forward.

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