Page 13 of Accidentally Joining His Cult

“That’s funny. I keep thinking that your boundless energy and enthusiasm remind me of a golden retriever,” he replies with a grin. “Also a compliment.”

He winks, and I feel my cheeks heat again.Seriously, am I getting a fever or something?

We stop near the hotel exit, and I know that Viktor will call any minute, but the thought of saying goodbye fills me with anxiety.

He steps toward me, and I realize just how little space is left between us. He’s staring at my mouth again, and I wonder if maybe he’s struggling with the same thing I am—figuring out what to say to keep this moment from ending.

He must decide to go in for a goodbye hug instead because he reaches a hand toward my hip just as my phone goes off. We both jump back a little at the noise.

“I’m so sorry. I really do need to take this,” I say quickly, giving Beck an apologetic look. “Thank you for such a great night.”

Then I answer the phone. He looks just as disappointed as I feel as he leaves the hotel and I head back to my room.

At least we exchanged numbers. I’m determined that tonight won’t be the last time I see him.

“So, how was Chicago? Any luck at the Caldwell Corporation?” Viktor asks.

“Yeah, the presentation went really well and our individual seminar was sold out today.” I’ve already emailed him updates on recruitment information from the presentations that I put on during the week, but Viktor always prefers the connection that actual conversations allow.

I really admire that he takes the time to maintain such solid friendships with his employees. Most bosses would probably prefer all email correspondence, but Viktor and I talk at least once a week when I’m traveling, and every day if I’m in Montana. He’s always asking about my day and who I’ve talked to and spent time with. He knows everything about my life, and I know that I’m super lucky to have a boss who cares so much about me.

“Any of the family interested?” he asks.

“Beck and I actually just got dinner after he came to today’s program.”

“That’s great! His example could help inspire a lot of people to improve their lives with my programs.”

“Yeah, he’s awesome. And he seemed interested in joining our next retreat!” I add. I’m really excited about the idea and seeing him again.

“Do you think you can make that happen?”

“I don’t know if he’s free, but I’ll definitely invite him!”

“Keep up the great work, Cody, you’re helping so many people find happiness,” he encourages.Best boss ever.

CHAPTERFIVE

Beckett

Ishould have kissed him.

The thought plays on repeat in my head like an annoying song that you can’t stop hearing over and over again, even now, days later.

Another thirty seconds and I would have. We were standing so close. I knew we didn’t have time, and a short kiss was the most I could hope for. I was already reaching for him because not touching him had felt impossible in that moment. Staring at his mouth, the anticipation growing as we leaned in closer.

And then his stupid boss ruined it.

I know I haven’t been on many first dates, so I’m not the best judge, but I thought we had a pretty perfect one. Dinner was great, the conversation effortless, and we laughed so much. Everything just felt... right.

I can’t remember ever wanting to just hang out with someone I’m this attracted to.

Sure, I wish we could have continued the night in his hotel room, but I was still really pleased with how the night had gone. I need to see him again.

I’ve been trying to hold off on texting him, not wanting to seem too desperate. But as I sit in my office, completely ignoring the work in front of me, having this internal debate yet again, I decide a few days should be fine.

Beck

Hey Goldie

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