“Yes. Hi. I’m Raven,” I say, offering my outstretched hand to her.
She takes it in her hand, squeezing gently. “I’m Liz. Welcome on board. I’ve been working for Cavendish for three months. Short time, but let me know if I can help.”
“How do you like it?” I ask, curious to know if the company as a whole is better than what I’ve seen in regard to Keller.
“It’s wonderful,” she says. “Of course, there are a few assholes in the bunch, but overall, the environment is fantastic. Execs listen to everyone’s ideas, and credit is given where it’s due.”
“Good to know,” I reply.
“Rollout meetings are a big thing. How exciting to experience one on your first day,” Liz says, smiling over at me.
Asher had told me as much. He said every time a new client is announced, the office’s excitement builds. Ideas are shared, and in some cases, celebrations occur.
“I’ll be working closely with the new client, so I’m excited about this.”
“Ah... that’s why they’re staring,” she says, looking around.
That’s when I notice a few people staring, whispering behind their hands.
“Don’t pay them any attention. They’re all jealous because they’re not good enough to get the promotion.”
I blow out a harsh breath. “Not exactly how I wanted to start.”
“Never mind them. They weren’t going to get it regardless of you. Most of these runners will only ever be just that. At least here at Cavendish.”
“He’s coming,” someone announces to the room as footsteps sound down the hallway.
The air shifts, and everyone quiets, sitting up a little taller. I find myself doing the same while I open my notebook and prepare to take notes.
“We have lots to discuss, so I’ll need your undivided attention. Hold all questions until the end. Is that clear?”
“Isn’t he absolutely spectacular?” Liz whispers to me.
My head lifts, eyes landing on the owner of the company. The elusive Charles Cavendish.
The room spins, and I feel a bit faint.
“Are you all right?” Liz murmurs, her hand landing on my leg.
I close my mouth as I realize it’s hanging open.
It’s him.
The man from the club—the handsome stranger from the coat closet.
A part of me expects him to react when he sees me, but his eyes merely trail over me without recognition. I narrow my eyes to make sure it’s him. But there’s no denying that the man in front of me is the same man from Silver. I’d seen him up close and personal. Had his tongue down my throat, hands all over my body.
All sorts of emotions begin to rage through me.
Excitement.
Nervousness.
Irritation.
He didn’t even recognize me.
I sit for the next fifteen minutes, listening to him speak. He’s been going on about shifts in management due to the upcoming news, and I frantically write down as much as I can.