Page 20 of The Aries Alliance
It was harder than I thought, sharing my truth.
“I haven’t had a lot of people look out for me in life. I’ve always been the strong one, even as a kid. My therapist helped me see that’s why I fight so hard for others. It’s what I’m used to.”
“That makes sense.”
“Although many think I’m reckless for pushing against the system as I do, I try to center others first. Everyone deserves to be protected and treated with dignity and grace at work.” The volume of my voice descended until I pursed my lips.
War reached for my hand.
“Your core is good, Scarlett.”
“Thank you.”
That motivated me to share more.
“Oh, . . . my best friend, Val, is also my rock. We’ve been close since college. She’s not shocked by my zeal.”
“I like that for you. My sister, Tiffany, is a therapist. She’s on board with my quest for justice. I’d love to connect the two of you. It takes a village to keep your mind right.”
“I agree, and thank you.”
“I was harsh in my office, but I care about your well-being. You deserve complete restoration as you process your work hurt.”
Although I’d been gaslighted by countless people at work, this was the first time anyone from EFU acknowledged that what I endured was harmful. It was what I expected from Warrick in the first place. What I realized now was that our culture wouldn’t allow him to support me. His humility made me trust him even more.
“Thanks for calling my work hurt what it was. I’d like to connect with Tiffany.”
“My pleasure.” War sipped his wine before focusing his intense gaze on me again.
“Do you have a man? For moral support?” War leaned so close his scent filled my nostrils.
My guard rose slightly at the sudden turn in conversation. Like before, I wasn’t sure how to answer.
“Uh, kind of. I mean, I date occasionally. Why?”
My initial attraction to Warrick reared its head as his light eyes bore into my dark ones. The sexual chemistry in the room was undeniable, tapping into my passionate nature.
War finally tore his eyes from mine, then placed his arm lightly across my shoulders.
Common sense told me to change the subject, but my body hungered for War and what he might do to satisfy my physical desires.
He lowered his voice, his warm breath teasing my ear.
“I want to know who you spend your private time with, since I’m gonna be all up in your business when we work together. Idon’t want one of your boo thangs to come after me when you don’t have time for him.”
I sucked in my stomach and placed both of my hands on my abdomen, taking short, shallow breaths. When I turned my head to study War’s face, his hooded eyes lingered on my lips. I stared at his full ones as I spoke.
“The guys I date know I work a lot. I hate clingy men.” I shifted my eyes to the wall to break our trance.
He chuckled and stroked his chin.
“Good. I’d hate for your man’s feelings to be hurt when you come to him smelling like me.”
I whipped my head back toward War, stunned by his words.
“Why would I smell like you?”
He placed his fingers under my chin and held my head steady, ensuring I gave him my full attention.
