Page 46 of The Protection Agreement

Tricia goes quiet.

“Well, if I run into him, I’ll let him know he has an admirer,” I say flatly, barely hiding my reaction.

“I’d rather you give him my number,” she adds.

I almost roll my eyes.

I notice Alan getting up.

“I think it’s time I head back,” I say, changing the subject. Ice stands too.

“You can stay a little longer, can’t you? I mean, she’s right there, you can see her,” Tricia says to Ice.

“She’s done; means I’m done too,” Ice firmly states, like it’s non-negotiable. “Bummer,” Tricia says. “I’ll stop by your desk when I’m done.” She smiles at him.

I like her, and the fact I get to tease Ice makes it golden.

I dump the empty plates into the trash and return to join Alan and get back into the onboarding. I like Alan too, he’s witty with words and friendly. I didn’t interact much with Tom so for now, I can’t say much about him.

At five pm, they all start to pack up for the day, except Julian. I decide to stop and speak with him. He looks up as I get close to his door and waves me into his office.

“I’m about to head out. Is there anything else?” I ask.

He leans forward in his chair.

“No, it’s your first day. We won’t have much until you are fully onboard, which will probably be by the end of the week, so please, head home and tell Bruce thanks for the lunch. The team was very happy and jealous at the same time.” He smiles.

“I’m sorry he did that,” I mutter.

“No, please. I should have thought about it since we are a small but vital group to the company. It helped. I notice the ladies have warmed up to you, so it worked out perfect.”

I nod.

“I look forward to working with all of them.”

“Great. Have a good evening, and see you tomorrow.”

I nod and leave his office. Ice is standing by the door.

“Boss called; he’s waiting downstairs.”

My mouth flies open.

“You are messing with me, right, Ice?” I ask, trying to hide my surprise, even as my expression is still shocked. And a part of me knows he wouldn’t joke about it.

“No, I told him you might be done at five. He texted that he would be here to pick you up.”

“I don’t want anyone to know about us, especially with Vivian calling him McHottie.”

He cuts off his laugh.

“Not funny, Ice. Let’s go and make sure he doesn’t come in here.”

We use the back exit and bid Mandy goodnight. Our elevator ride is quiet, and true to his words, I see Smith leaning on the car. He sees us coming and opens the door. I practically race into the car and shut the door.

Bruce turns to me, surprised by my brisk action.

“Is everything okay?” he asks quickly, looking concerned.