Page 67 of Fate In Fiction

“That’s not what Criselda Myers went on about,” she mutters under her breath.

“Pardon me?” Thank fuck no one is behind me because, instinctively, I slam on the brakes. Josie remains straight faced and crosses her arms. I don’t recall our names ever being in the tabloids together, so what exactly has Stella told her? Let alone, why the hell would Josie care?

“Nothing. Keep driving.” She reaches to turn up the radio as I lightly slap her hand. “Let’s keep the spanking for when I’m naked.”

“Do not try to distract me with that image, Josie.” I’m ready to take her over my knee if she doesn’t fess up about her jab. “Why’d you mention her name?”

“I don’t know.” An empty laugh pushes through her. “A yacht came to mind with the mention of Miami, and I guess it triggered the time you two spent together last summer.” She sighs, shaking her head before turning to me. “I don’t care what you’ve done before us, even though there isn’t exactly an us. I just got blindsided with how unexperienced I am compared to what you’re used to.”

“Josie.” My tone remains serious as I look into her eyes. “Be honest with me. Did you sleep with me because you wanted to keep up with the type of women I’ve been with?”

“No. I rode your dick because you’re hot and I couldn’t take it anymore. I was just too shy to make the first move. So, I’m really fucking happy you did,” she rants in one breath, ending with a giggle. “I’ll climb aboard right now if you tilt your seat back.” She’s leaving me speechless as I picture her flexible little leg over my shoulder as she rides me.

“Jesus, woman.” Her boldness springs my cock to life.

“That’s high praise, considering your dick hasn’t even touched my lips.” I watch as she transforms into her overly confident self. While I admire her boldness, I still haven’t figured out if this moment is a mask or not.

“Josie.”

“I told you I aim to gain experience while this charade carries on.”

“So, you want me to give you more experience so another guy can reap the benefits?” Well, that’s part of this fake relationship, isn’t it? I don’t get to keep her in the end.

“Yeah. I want to know what I’m doing by the time we go our separate ways.” She keeps her head turned out the window while she talks.

While I want to jump at the opportunity, reservation takes a hold of me. With every line we cross, there is no going back. Even though this bond we are building is playful and platonic, a bond is still forming. Having her learn everything with me spikes my heart to race with the possibility of her resenting me. She’s the only woman who has held my attention beyond an orgasm, but there won’t be lasting feelings developed. We are in two different stages in our lives.

“We’ll see. Maybe if you’re a good girl, we can explore something else.”

“Yes, Rookie.” She giggles as I cringe. “Come on, teaching me would be a first for you too.” I throw the car into drive and continue down the road. My hand rests on her thigh for the ride, and I realize as I daydream about falling asleep beside her, that if she continues to sleep in my bed, it’s another thing we’re doing not for show, but what feels natural to us. I go to pull my hand away, but her soft palm covers mine, putting me at ease. This action should cause anything but ease, given our situation.

* * *

“Your flight has been arranged for Miami.” Adrianna sets a coffee on my desk with a smile.

“Perfect. How about the hotel?” Her eyes try not to widen as she nods, and I assume the price of the jet and the penthouse suite flabbergasted her.

“The conference is half of the day, so you’ll have plenty of time to relax in the penthouse.” She clutches her agenda and leans against the doorframe. “Thank you for the raise. My last pay was unexpected.”

“It’s well deserved. You are the best assistant I have had, and I want to thank you for everything you’ve done to help make my life easier.” I motion to the chair and, reluctantly, she takes the seat. “Where do you see yourself in the future, career-wise?” Her mouth opens, but then clamps it shut, eyes darting around the room as if I won’t like her answer.

“I’m twenty-two. I’m just trying to pay bills and hope to find a supportive husband in the process.” My eyes widen as her cheeks turn pink. “Not you! Not that you aren’t worth someone’s interest––you know…” She trails off.

Unless she graduated early, her age doesn’t add up to the required qualifications. But I’m beginning to question how much of it is needed, considering I barely remember anything from the school years leading up to this position. She and I both seem to be dedicated hands-on learners.

“Adrianna. Breathe.” I chuckle and relax back into my chair. “I know how seriously you take this job. Is Aspen where you see yourself long-term?”

“Mr. Wheaton,” she whispers, and I sense I’m pushing my limit with personal questions. “I don’t have an answer.”

“I’m only asking because I see how much potential you have. How much this business is worth investing in you. I’d hate to lose you, but you’re proving to be an asset to our company. We have locations all over the country if you need a change of pace.”

“I’m happy with what I am doing for you right now. May I let you know when I am ready to take on more responsibilities?”

“I’d love for you to sit in during my meetings next week and jot down notes about what you observe about my interactions with people.” If I can slowly toughen her backbone and train her to read people, she’d be great in a higher position for our New York location within two years.

“I’d be honored to.”

“Good. Finish up for the day and you should be able to take off early. I won’t be needing you Friday morning since I’ll be en route.” With a small smile and nod, she gets up and leaves my office.