Chapter 17: Kudos for Mila
Chapter 17: Kudos for Mila
Mila's pov
I suffered through the night and didn't sleep well. All my pent-up sexual frustration was making me antsy, and I couldn't relax. I finally gave up as I saw the first sunlight begin to stream in through the blinds. Begrudgingly, I left my bed and forced myself into the shower.
After I was dressed, I sent in the procurement plan to everyone through our shared files. Luckily, it was standard and received approval from most people. By the time I left for work that morning, I'd already had several positive comments about the report. As each message came in, it felt like a pat on the back.
Then while riding the bus into work, I received a text.
Mr. Williams: Go to the partner's store this afternoon and personally finalize the contract with Mr. Adam. It will be the icing on the cake for us.
Me: Okay, boss.
Feeling tired but confident, I stepped off the bus and entered the building. My feet were full of lead, however. If I didn't get some caffeine I was done for. With a big yawn I trudged to the break room for some coffee. But there was nothing left.
My face flushed from feeling annoyed. I yanked out the coffee filter, added water and then filled it with grounds. Just as I flipped on the machine, my coworker came over, cradling his mug eagerly awaiting the java. Glancing over my shoulder he said, "Your interning skills have improved. You're doing a great job."
"Oh, thanks," I said, feeling shocked and pleased, flashing a shy smile. I glanced up at him as the room filled with the pungent aroma of dark roast. I knew I'd seen him before at work and school, but in my tiredness, I was drawing a blank on his name.
"In case you forgot, I'm Robert," he said, holding his hand out. I took it and we shook tightly. I noticed his name on his ID and realized he was the one who previously made the procurement plan.
"Robert Ressler," I said, smiling brightly. "I recognize your name from the report. Your notes helped me complete this project. Thank you."
His charming smile lit up his entire face, warming me inside.
"You're welcome," he said bowing in jest. I giggled.
"So, Mr. Williams asked me to go up and see our partner. Any tips you can give me before I head out?" I asked, clasping my hands.
"Do you have a ride there yet?" he asked.
"No, I neglected to do that," I said, slapping my forehead with a bashful grin. I felt stupid for not already setting this up.
"Well, it shouldn’t be a problem for you.”
“What do you mean?” I asked, pinching my brow in question.
“Didn't I see you leave here with Everett the other night?" He motioned with his cup to the front door. Waiting for my response, he lightly tapped his foot.
"Oh, we aren't that close," I said, glancing down at his fidgeting shoe then back in his eyes. "I mean, Everett likes to joke around but we don't have anything romantic going on."
Robert breathed a sigh of relief.
"Well in that case, let me make things easier for you. I have field work this afternoon so I can take you up to meet Mr. Adam. We can go over all the supposed intricacies of reports.”
We shared a laugh.
“Does that sound good?" he asked.
"Sure!" I exclaimed, pursing my lips, bouncing a bit. "I appreciate it." This was certainly advantageous. What better way to learn about this job than as an understudy of my direct superior? My chest swelled with pride, glad to be making these connections with the right people.
"Great, we'll meet up later," Robert said after filling his cup. “Here’s my number.” He handed me his card. I watched him walk down the hallway, greeting a few other workers until he took a left and disappeared. I bet my father would be impressed with my progress. I couldn’t wait to tell him.
As I picked up the sloshing pot of mahogany liquid, I tried to pour steadily. My exhaustion was making my heart race so my hands were shaking. Once the cup was filled, I set it down briefly, rubbing my tired eyes. I was barely at work and I already needed a break.
When I glanced up, standing in front of me was Mr. Williams. I gasped, holding my chest in surprise, then side-stepped him, opening the refrigerator. I poured some cream in my mug and then added some sugar.
"I didn't see you come in," I said, grabbing a spoon, stirring my cup, then taking a gulp.
"You still need to submit that data," he said authoritatively, waving his hand toward his office. We both knew that wasn't true; there was no more data. It was only an excuse to get me alone. However, that didn’t matter and I dutifully traipsed to his office. He shut the door and clicked the lock, turning to me.
Pinning me against the wall he stared into my eyes.
"You look very tired today. Did you disobey me last night?"
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