Page 47 of Enticing the Elf
“On it,” Niamh assures me, hesitates again as her gaze goes to my screen, then turns and heads back to her desk.
I flip quickly through the rest of the reports, since I have them in my hands, but she’s right that everything looks fine. I’ll do a thorough read prior to my monthly calls with the team leaders next week, but it’s pretty much all routine. There’s no big threat to the viceroys here on Earth, just like there isn’t one to the king.
A chat box pops up on my screen just as I turn my attention back to the custom pet accessories site.
The hockey people are here for your eleven o’clock meeting. Erik brought three people with him.
Shit, is it that time already? I glance at the clock in the bottom corner of the screen, and yes, I’m behind on my work for the morning. “Ari, meeting,” I say while I type my reply.
Thanks—on our way. Impressions of the new people?
Ari stops beside my desk, his tablet in hand, and we both wait for Dáithí’s answer.
One polite professional, one arrogant asshole, and one who needs therapy.
“That’s an interesting take,” Ari murmurs. “I wonder who’s who?”
I click the message to like it, then lock my computer and stand. “Let’s go find out.” For all our sakes, I hope this meeting goes well and resolves our concerns. Raðulfr and Jared both want the collaboration with the Warhammers to go ahead, and the PR department has added their vote as well. Not to mention, if I have to veto this, I’ll probably need to have a conversation with an angry Jared. That’s not going to go well for me.
Ari waits until we’re in the hallway before saying casually, “So… pet collars.”
“Do we have to do this? We’re working.” My attempt to sound professional is thwarted by the plaintive note in my voice.
“I’m just saying, you don’t have a pet. Which means?—”
“Dáithí didn’t have many options to choose from when he got Elsking’s collar, and I know he wasn’t thrilled with what he picked,” I explain, hoping to just get it over with. “It’s not a crime for me to look at getting one for her that he’d like better.”
“That’s cool. Did you see anything that would work?”
I shoot him a sideways glance, but it doesn’t seem like he’s teasing. “Maybe. I need to email the company and see if they have the options I want.”
He nods, and as we come out into reception, lowers his voice and adds, “You should check with Dáithí and see if he has preferences too.”
I roll my eyes at him. “I’m not going to order anything without checking first.” I give Dáithí a smile and a wave, loving the way his face lights up as he smiles back, and then we turn toward our waiting visitors.
It only takes one glance to know which is the polite professional—he’s rising from his seat, a smile on his face.
“Hi, Eoin, Ari,” Erik says, stepping forward to shake hands. “It’s good to see you again.” There’s a slightly harried undertone to the words, which concerns me. Is he not confident in Ansas’s explanation?
“Thanks for coming in,” I reply. “I know you were hoping to be further along with plans by now.”
“It’s no problem,” he assures me, then half turns to gesture to the polite professional. “This is Craig Voss, our general manager. Craig, Eoin Feirstrigh and Ari Oensjord.”
“Great to meet you both,” Craig says. “We appreciate you giving Felix the opportunity to clarify the situation.”
I open my mouth, but my reply is cut off by a very loud snort. “Like there’s any clarification that could make Ansas palatable.”
Craig’s smile disappears, and Erik’s face falls. “Now, Coach, maybe let these guys get to know your sense of humor before you start with the jokes.”
Ah. His stress is suddenly completely understandable. And I’m pretty sure I know who the arrogant asshole is.
“Jokes? Who?—”
“This is Coach Franks,” Erik cuts in desperately.
I nod, but don’t offer to shake hands. “Coach.” My gaze slides to the last member of the group, who Dáithí believes is in need of therapy. Based on his background check, I suspect it would be for anger management. “And you’re Felix Ansas.”
He nods and comes forward, hand half outstretched as if he’s not sure I’ll take it. “Thank you for this meeting.” He’s pale and his jaw is tight. I’m sure he’s been lectured on how important this is for the team.
