Page 28 of Texting the CEO's Obsession
Cassie barks out a laugh as the elevator doors slide open, depositing us at the parking garage. It’s tonelessly gray and smells like rain, just like always, but everything seems to be in sharper contrast as I wait for her to answer.
“Only in Sloane’s dreams,” she says scathingly, and relief slams into me like a tidal wave. “She’s desperate for any scrap of his attention. He’sobviouslynot into her.”
Oh, thank fucking God.
I was terrified for a moment that I’d read all the signs wrong, that Nick’s behavior toward her was just a way to keep their office romance hidden. Cassie has her finger on the pulse of all the office gossip, though.
If theyweretogether, she’d know.
“At least I only have to deal with a jealous coworker instead of a jealous girlfriend,” I say with a weak laugh.
My phone buzzes in my pocket. I tug it out as we walk toward our cars, heels clipping across the smooth concrete. As soon as I see the text waiting for me, my face splits in a soft smile.
Mister Mystery: Did you enjoy your first day in your new office, Miss Morgan?
I texted him before I got into the elevator, telling him I was heading home, as it has become a habit over the last few days. The thought of what he made me do in my new office is fresh on my mind. I can’t wait to see him in person again. The teasing text messages with him only get me so far.
Riley: That I did, even without a champagne delivery ;)
“What’s got you smiling at your phone likethat?” Cassie asks, playfully pretending to look over my shoulder.
I flush brightly, locking my phone and slipping it back into my pocket.
“I… may have met someone at the charity gala almost two weeks ago,” I admit shyly. “Taylor had an extra ticket and took me, and he asked for my number.”
“You got a boyfriend and didn’t even tell me?” Cassie asks in mock offense.
“He’s not myboyfriend,” I say, although I can’t deny the rush of excitement that floods me at the thought. “We’re just talking. Texting. I’m not really sure where it’s going, but maybe there’s something there. I do really enjoy our conversations… so who knows?”
Cassie’s teasing grin softens, and she looks at me fondly as she stops beside her car.
“I hope so,” she says. “You deserve it. Besides, it’d be good for you to do something other than work for once. Live a little.”
I laugh, shaking my head at how similar her advice is to Taylor’s. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Cassie. Drive safe.”
She gives me a little wave and climbs into her car, leaving me to head to my car alone. It’s not far, but even just the few seconds have my mind whirling with thoughts of my masked man.
There’s something growing between us, isn’t there?
We’re not just flirting aimlessly. He likes me enough to check in on me, ask about my day, and remember little things we chat about.
I climb into my car as I think, pulling my phone out of my pocket when I feel it buzz twice in a row.
Mister Mystery: I told you, if you want champagne, all you have to do is say the word. I have a feeling you enjoyed my instructions earlier more than you’d have enjoyed a drink.
I blush at the reminder of our earlier escapades, my heart tripping in my chest as I start my car. I’ve never felt so wanted before; desired, enjoyed, and savored.
Yeah, there has to besomethinghere.
Riley: Don’t get me riled up again. I have to drive home.
Mister Mystery: I’ll do what I please, Miss Morgan. Drive safe. I’m stuck in meetings until late tonight, so I’ll be slow with responses.
Fondness builds in my gut, and I can’t beat down the smile that tugs at my cheeks as I lock my phone and start toward home. It’s not a long drive, thankfully, but by the time I’ve made it back to my cozy little apartment, my face hurts with how wide my smile is.
I’ve never had someone be so attentive and proactive. The guy I dated in college, Dallas, was always too wrapped up in his own life to pay much attention to me outside of when he wanted to have sex, which wasn’t even that good, and that’s probably why we only lasted a week.
And yeah… I tried to do the Tinder thing like Taylor had suggested a year ago. That never went anywhere. Just a bunch of cold text messages and dick pics that were a major turn off. None of them were ever interested in getting to know me, and none of them paid attention outside of trying to get laid.
