Page 93 of Mr. Almost

OLIVIA

Today has been a prettygood one. Iris stopped by to drop some things off to me and told me that I was doing a great job. She complimented my new intake system I created for the guests. It wasn’t much, but it saves time and makes the guests feel a little more special. The fact that Iris recognized that means a lot.

I’ve been floating on cloud nine ever since. Even Tristen has noticed a difference in me.

“If you keep humming like that, people are going to think you got laid last night,” she teases.

I blush at the insinuation. Mostly because it’s true. Ever since the night in my kitchen, Mason and I have been sneaking away when we can to have sex. Taking that next step is what we needed to get closer. I no longer feel like I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop. I’ve pulled my foot inside and firmly closed the door.

I’m much happier for it too. Everything in my life seems to be going right for once.

“Oh my gosh. You did. You’re holding back on me.”

“Shhh.” I look around to make sure no one notices her outburst. “I don’t really talk about stuff like that too much. Plus, we are at work.”

“Fine, but I want drinks and some details. Bring Chloe. I’m dying to get to meet her.”

For the first time in a long time, I feel like I can actually agree to something without figuring out someone for Ari. Her father would happily watch her.

“Okay. I can do that. You’ll love Chloe. You two will be like two peas in a damn pod.”

“She’s fun, then. Good to know. Oh shit, Mr. Flirty at two o’clock.”

I cringe before turning to find the man in question walking toward the front desk. He’s not an unattractive man. If I were single, I might even enjoy flirting with him a bit. He’s obviously some kind of businessman. I haven’t asked him any questions, but he did tell me he was in town for business and not pleasure. After which, he made a comment about him being open for a little pleasure, though. In response to that, I listed off the local sites that he could see. He didn’t like that too much, but I shut down his next attempt at flirting too.

Ever since he checked in two days ago, he has found reasons to stop at the front desk. The first day, it was because he forgot one of the destinations I had been telling him about. The second day, he came in before my shift to ask something. He then asked when I would be there, but they wouldn’t tell him. When I came in later that day, he found his way up to the front desk to ask about a good restaurant. I gave him a few suggestions but then directed him to the concierge, who would be better equipped to answer those questions.

I force a smile as he walks up today. I don’t know how many times I have to politely tell this guy that I’m not interested for him to get the message.

“Hello, Mr. Park. How can I help you today?”

He leans against the desk, giving me what I can only describe as aflirty smirk. “I’d say you could come with me to this boring meeting, but I’m guessing you wouldn’t have too much fun.”

What does one even say to that? Like who uses that as a way to flirt? Resisting the urge to roll my eyes, I paste on a fake smile instead.

“Oh yes. That would be quite boring, but I also have work, so there’s that. Is there anything else I could help you with?”

His smirk dims a little. “Maybe a coffee with some conversation? When is your break?” he asks.

I’m about to kindly turn him down when I hear a voice from beside us. “I’m sorry, Clint. My employees aren’t available for coffee dates. They have a job to do. If you are done harassing them, would you like to proceed to our lunch meeting?”

Mr. Park straightens before smiling at me. “Well, she’s not married. Are you dating anyone? I don’t see a reason she can’t have a drink with me when she’s not on the clock. You don’t own your employee’s time outside of work, Mason.”

Mason moves behind the counter to my side. His arms go around me, making me stiffen. I feel like I’m being pissed on right now. I don’t like it.

“This particular employee is not available. Even if she was, we do not allow our employees to fraternize with guests. It’s a bad look for the hotel.”

Mr. Park’s face turns red. “And the CEO fucking the receptionist is any better?”

Mason growls, “You might want to rethink your position, Clint.”

“No need. I’ll be going. I don’t think this is the right place to use for my business.”

Mr. Park stalks away toward the elevators. I wait until he is inside before I turn to Mason, glowering at him.

“That was unnecessary and unprofessional,” I hiss.

“He wouldn’t have stopped propositioning you. I took care of the problem.” Mason tries to touch me again, but I step back.

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