“I think it can help eliminate misunderstands and confusion.” I just have to stay professional.
Mr. Langston nods once, but he chuckles like I’m missing a personal joke. “Staying professional … It’s necessary for some situations but not all. I like to consider workers who stay more like friends.”
“Really?”
“Is that surprising?” He rubs his jaw and looks me over again. “Friend may be the wrong word for you, though.”
“So you can already see me in the role?” I push. “I do have some other offers, but I know where I want to be.”
“I’m sure you do. You strike me as a woman who knows what she wants and is willing to do whatever it takes to get it. I appreciate that.” He nods once. “It shows a strength of character that many lack. Few people understand sacrifice, dedication, determination. Let me ask you something.”
“Of course. I think that’s the theme of interviews.” I smile slightly.
He grins right back and gets closer. “If I were to tell you that you aren’t what we’re looking for, that you seem a little … rigid and unyielding, what would you do?”
“Remind you that it’s an asset. If a person were to try and get me to change your schedule for a meeting, would you want me to wiggle things around and fill your schedule or be able to tell them no without any room for argument?”
He nods. “And you are good at saying no, I take it.”
“Very.”
“Good to hear. I think everything seems to be in line here.”
This is the shortest interview I’ve ever been in. I clear my throat. “I do have a question for you.”
“Only one?”
“One right now then.” I revise, trying to remind myself for the umpteenth time to be professional. Even if I’m tempted to flirt, flip my hair, play with the necklace that sits right at my cleavage, that’s not how I want to get the job. “Do you have any concerns about me? Anything that would keep you from hiring me?”
“Only one, but it’s not something you can change.”
“Would you like to share?”
“You’re a gorgeous woman, Bella.” He says simply. “Temptation in a pencil skirt and I worry that my partners, as you call them, won’t be able to focus on their jobs.”
I don’t know what to say to that. He’s right. I can’t change it. I won’t dress down to get a job.
“Especially considering, I’m already having trouble focusing on our conversation and not your gorgeous legs.”
My face heats and I realize I’m playing with the hem of my skirt, right at my knees. I clear my throat. “Is that going to keep me from getting a job I know I’d do well?”
“Considering my options are hiring someone who’s clearly determined and capable while having to resist the urge to devour her or deal with more interviews of people who are less professional and … controlled, I think my answer is obvious.”
I just blink at him stupidly. He wants to devour me? How? My mouth, my pussy … both?
No. Not important, Bella. Stay focused.
“So it’s safe to say I have the job.”
“As far as I’m concerned yes, but I think you should meet my partners. I try to include them in my decisions.”
“About hiring?”
“About hiring, about women, especially women like you. Who could wrap them around her finger with no problem.” He actually winks at me.
Heat teases my nerves and I can’t stop myself from shivering. Mr. Langston’s eyes drift over me slowly and I’m suddenly very self-conscious about how hard my nipples are. I take a shaking breath.
“I don’t think I have that much power, sir.”