Shelby just put a serious damper on my mood, and I cannot handle much more.
It’s not her fault by a long shot, but I’m in serious need of meds and sleep. I have a feeling I’ll only have time for one of those hangover cures.
She stands and heads to the door. It sounds like she muttersidiotunder her breath. I wouldn’t put it past her.
I watch her barge out, seeing most of the staff on the other side of the door just before she slams it.
I sigh.
The only way I’ll get a hold of my life that is spiraling out of control is to start over.
And over begins by getting Raven to come back.
15
Raven
I’m just sittingat my desk, reorganizing the stacks of paper to leaf through the remaining résumés, when Charles walks by my office, stopping in his tracks.
He looks awful.
Worse than last night.
“You’re here?” he says. I simply nod, feeling far too awkward after last night.
Charles had been a grade A drunk asshole. Not that I’ll give him a pass entirely, but something had been horribly wrong with him before he arrived at the office.
Curiosity is getting the better of me to figure out how I can fix this issue. What made someone as cool and collected as Charles Cavendish lose his control?
Trying to tamp down the desire that flows through me when we’re in the same room together, I try to answer his question calmly from the safety of my desk.
“I left early this morning to go home to change. Fell asleep. My phone was dead.” It’s all I offer by way of an explanation. I won’t apologize for being late and not calling. It’s his fault.
He nods. “I’m glad you got some rest.” He stares at me for a few tense moments. “Will you come with me to my office for a few moments?”
My lips purse as I consider my reply. I’m not ready to deal with him, but he is my boss, so what choice do I really have?
You have the upper hand. He was inappropriate.
I sigh, knowing it’s best to rip off the Band-Aid.
When I exit my office, everyone is staring at me. I wonder what they’re all thinking and why they’re so interested in Mr. Cavendish and me.
His words come back to haunt me. The insinuation that I didn’t earn my raise but took it by opening my legs.
It’s like being thrown into an ice-cold pool and held under.
Except it isn’t true, and I know it. That’s what matters.
“Close the door,” he says as I walk in.
I don’t say anything. Just sit down. I look up at him, but his eyes avert mine.
Coward.
“You wanted to see me?” I say, getting this dreaded meeting started.
His head lifts. “About last night—”