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  “Why don’t we take the kids to the movies, my treat, they all need some fun and we could use some quiet time in the back row eating all the snacks.”

  I laughed out loud at Tammy, she made the friendship the best. Her remarks always had me laughing. She knew what we all needed. I couldn’t have asked for a better friend in life. Her birthday was coming up, and I planned to make it great. She deserved it and much more.

  “Alright, round up the kiddos.”

  We gathered them in the living room and everyone got their shoes on. Tammy had a van, so we all piled into the van and took off toward the movie theater. Saturday being a busy time for the theater, we lucked out with not too big of a crowd upon arriving. The kids fought over what to see, but they had no choice to keep it PG since Livy was so young. Picking a Disney movie, we got the kids popcorn to share with one candy a piece to have. Spoiled, yes they were spoiled kids. Tammy crammed snacks for us in her purse and got a huge tub of popcorn for us. She spent nearly a fortune to make everyone happy.

  “Go on in with the kids, I need to use the restroom.”

  “Don’t fall in.” Tammy snorted. “Let’s go brats.” She moved them all into theater seven. Taking a huge breath, and in a good mood, I sashayed into the ladies' room. After doing my business, I walked up to the huge wall of mirrors that hung over the sink and started the water. A woman walked out of the stall next to me, my eyes begged to see anyone else.

  “Hello, Paisley,” Chasity smiled.

  This bitch was the literal reason my son got hit, because she made Clint late in picking up his kids from school which resulted in the accident. Bitch had the nerve to say hello. Was Clint in the theater too? My night went from relaxing to not so much.

  I ran threw a list of one liners to say.

  “What do you want, bitch?”

  “Why are you talking to me?”

  “We’re not friends, no need to be cordial.”

  “I hate you.”

  “You’re going to burn in court with Clint.”

  “You’re not any more special than any other girlfriend he’s had.”

  Then I realized, as much as I wanted to hurt her with my words, I was better than that. The strong, alpha, woman in me put it to a stop. What in the hell would my kids think if they overheard me? Gosh, I wanted to, but it wasn’t worth it.

  “Hello, Chasity.” I looked down to wash my hands rubbing a little too hard with the soap. Calming my nerves. I toned it down.

  “Are we cool?” She hid behind her seemingly genuine smile. No we aren’t cool, I couldn’t possibly like a woman trying to rip away my children.

  “Chasity, my mother always told me to be honest. So, this is me being honest and frank with you. I’m not going to sugarcoat the bullshit. I will see you in court while I fight for my children, so quite frankly, no. We are not cool. Have a great night.”

  I must of stunned her speechless because she said nothing to me besides lower her smile into a thin line as I walked out of the bathroom. I didn’t care how it made me look, after all, it was what she and Clint were doing. When you were together you made a team. I treated equally.

  I looked around once I exited, and didn’t see Clint anywhere, thank God. I hurried back into theater seven and sat next to Tammy in the back, allowing the kids to sit a couple rows ahead of us for some mom privacy.

  “I told you not to fall in.” Tammy slapped my leg with a sly smile.

  “You’ll never guess who was in the bathroom.”

  “Ummmmmmm, I’ll guess. Robert Downy Jr.”

  I belted out in a laugh. “What? No!”

  “Well, I’d totally use my free pass for him in a damn bathroom!”

  “You have issues, Tammy. Freaking Chasity was in there and I can only assume Clint ain’t far off.”

  “Well, shit. What the little shit say?”

  We literally sat next to each other whispering back and forth the entire movie. Thank goodness nobody was in the theater with us because I would imagine we’d get kicked out. Munching on snacks and talking trash. We had the best friendship.

  CHAPTER THIRTEEN

  “B ye baby, have a great day at school!” Livy was the last to be dropped off. I adjusted my blouse and took a glance in the rear view mirror. I had the air conditioning on full blast, even it couldn’t keep up. Trying ridiculously hard not to burn a sweat hole in my shirt on my first day, I plastered a smile on my face. Positivity breeds positivity. The day needed to go seamless and better than any first day before it. The wheels turned in the direction of the law offices of Oakley and Bennett. My heart slammed in my chest the closer I edged to the new job. I tried blasting my favorite songs to get me in the mood, and my mood was definitely there, I just needed to gain my confidence.

  Coming to a halt in one of the only available parking spots in the small parking lot, I took a huge breath and pulled my visor down. Peering into the mirror I began my pep talk.

  “You fucking got this bitch! You’re going to be amazing and they will love you! Stay smiling and do the best you know you can do!” I pounded my hand on the steering wheel in excitement. Accidentally making my horn beep, I reeled it in. Glancing to be sure nobody saw me, I was met with two familiar eyes staring me down, making me want to sink so damn far into my seat. Holy shit, Cage Bennett. The Cage Bennett of fucking Oakley and Bennett just saw me talk to myself in the damn mirror and slam my fist. Kill me, I wanted to die. Taking a quick breath, I got out of the car and smiled shyly looking down at the ground. No way in hell could I meet his eyes again after he caught me looking like a damn lunatic.

  “Good morning, Paisley, right?”

  Cage was so fucking hot, I hadn’t expected him to be so damn striking in person. I didn’t interview with him, just for him. How the hell had he known who I was? Standing at approximately six foot I think two, and bear-like at maybe two hundred twenty pounds. He was a beast beneath that suit and tie, muscles protruding through his cotton button up shirt and a grin that melted your heart and soaked your panties.

  “Hi, yes, I’m Paisley Connor.” Trying my damn hardest to smile and pray he didn’t mention what he saw.

  “Pleasure. Come on in, I’ll show you to Holly’s office and get you started.”

  “Oh, thank you, Mr. Bennett.”

  “Cage, call me, Cage.”

  I grinned as he led the way inside. Following behind him, I couldn’t help but take in his backside. A tattoo sneaking up the back of his neck, appearing over the collar of the shirt. I couldn’t make out what it was, but the way my body reacted to my boss, sent me a little crazy. His navy suit jacket hugged his broad shoulders. His marine styled cut left him so clean looking, yet not what I envisioned a lawyer looking like. I’m sure he got a ton of attention from his clients. I know if I were them, he’d make me weak in the knees.

  “Holly, Paisley is here reporting for her first day.”

  “Cage, good morning. No need to be doing my job. Get to work, I’ll show her the ropes.”

  “I’m in meetings all day, hold my calls. Miss Connor here will learn the best from you.”

  “Aw, don’t make me blush,” She giggled.

  I half wondered if he was flirting, with Holly of course, not the damn psycho talking to herself in her car.

  “Paisley! So happy to have you, welcome to Oakley and Bennett! As you saw, that’s Mr. Bennett who prefers to be called by his first name, Cage. How did you two meet?”

  Holly was adorable. Her blonde bob haircut accentuated her petite frame, with bright red rim glasses, and matching red lipstick to boot. She gave the librarian vibe a run for its money. Seemed to be around my age too.

  “Um, he saw me outside and introduced himself.”

  “Wow, he must have read your profile then. I sent everyone your interview picture and file. All new hires grace the newsletter email. Don’t be weirded out if people know who you are. Just never expected the boss to read them. Super cool, my job is noticed!”

  “Super cool!” I gave a big smile
and thumbs up trying not to show my nerves that the entire office knew who I was.

  “Come on, I’ll show you your desk and around the office. Then we’ll get your paperwork finalized and on the payroll and all that jazz. If we have time, we’ll go over your duties.”

  I followed her around the office and the more I met people, the easier it felt the day was going well. Everyone was extremely nice and up-lifting. Huge breath of fresh air. Although, everyone was also very busy. That was a good thing though, busy meant fast days.

  Holly brought me to my desk, which had a freaking private office. I had a private office. Not some cubicle connected to another cubicle with nosy, loud people. I had a door and four walls and it was the best thing I ever saw. Didn’t expect it one bit.

  “Wow, this is amazing.”

  “I’ll let you get settled. The supply room is just around the corner with any pens, note pads, folders, and binders you might need. Do not hesitate to get some! Please make yourself at home. I’m going to grab your paperwork and come back in here.”

  “Great, thank you!” I sat down in my swivel chair and spun around a time or two. Then of course out of nowhere, Cage popped his head in. I half wondered if he saw me spinning in my office chair. He must think I’m a real winner.

  “Oh, I’m sorry, didn’t know you were there.”

  He smirked, “Glad you’re making yourself at home. I need a favor.” His olive eyes bored into mine, making the sweat perforate on my forehead.

  “Yes, sure, anything!” That sounded desperate.

  “Mark your calendar for dinner at the Ashford tonight. You’re coming with me on a business dinner. It’ll be good practice for you.”

  “Oh.” I let out a shaky breath. “Dinner?”

  “Yes, all expenses paid of course.”

  That came out of left field. My stomach dropped at the thought of being with this man for dinner. Then, it seemed like the world was heavy on my shoulders and the walls closed in on my confidence. Come on, Paisley! He’s my boss. Get it together!

  “Ok, I will mark it down.”

  “Holly will give you the details.”

  “Thanks. Was there anything else?”

  “Coffee, I like it black. I’ll be in meeting room two.”

  Coffee. Black. Room two. Holy shit. This was going to be a huge adjustment. Dinner, coffee, sexy pants, who was literally off limits.

  I shuffled to my feet and poked around the corner to find the kitchen where the coffee must be. Eyeing people walking about, I smiled and nodded trying to find the kitchen. Once I stumbled upon it, I spotted the coffee maker and a couple other coworkers having small talk around the machine of liquid gold.

  “Oh, hey, it’s the new girl.” A man smiled, and all heads turned to me.

  “Hi.” I smiled weakly, confidence slipping at every chance. This was awkward. “Just getting the boss his coffee.”

  “Black.” They all said in unison as if on cue.

  I giggled at them and squeezed in as they made way. I grabbed a cup, which was rather fancy for an office, it was a tall cup, to hold a lot of the magic content, caffeine.

  I grabbed the k-cup and started the process. As if all eyes were still planted on me, I hesitated to check, but turned to face them.

  “This is Harry, Kelsey, and Rosie and I’m Eli.”

  “Pleasure, I’m Paisley.”

  “Glad to have you here. It’s a pretty upbeat place to be. You’ll definitely be busy assisting Cage. If you need anything all, don’t hesitate to ask us.”

  “Thank you. I’m going to run his coffee to him. Have a great day guys!”

  I grabbed the warm cup between my hands and headed toward wherever room two was. Looking all over, I ran into Holly.

  “Oh thank goodness. Where’s meeting room two?”

  “Ah ha, Cage already put you to work. Come, I’ll show you.”

  “Thank you.” I followed on her heel down a corridor and off to the left where the meeting rooms were.

  “I’ll meet you back in your office.”

  Looking at her strangely wondering why she’d leave me, I turned and knocked on the door. When I heard the masculine voice telling me to come in, I turned the knob entering meeting room two. To my surprise, he was alone. I expected a room full of people.

  “Here’s your coffee, sir.”

  “Sir is for the military, I’m out of that, please call me Cage.”

  Right. I should have known he was ex-military. After all, this town was a military town.

  “I’m sorry, Cage. Black, just like you like it.”

  “Thank you. Please, sit.”

  I looked at the door remembering Holly said she’d meet me back at my desk. Feeling overwhelmed by the need to leave, yet stay with the boss on his invitation.

  I pulled a chair out and sat nervously on the edge, not getting comfortable to show I wasn’t staying long.

  “You look so familiar to me.”

  “Oh? Um, I just have one of those faces.”

  He took a sip of his coffee, his eyes never moving away from mine.

  “Tell me about yourself, Paisley. You know the stuff you don’t talk about on your interviews and such.”

  I sat there shifting in my seat. His gaze made me nervous, not in a bad way, just that he was almost undressing me with his eyes. Clearly, I needed coffee to wake me the fuck up. There was no way my boss would be doing that. And not after the show he saw of me in the car.

  “I have two kids. Livy is six and Jared is eight. I live on the other side of town.” I grabbed my phone and showed him a picture on my lock screen.

  “Beautiful, they look just like you. Especially, Livy.”

  “She’s definitely a mini me. I couldn’t deny her.”

  “She has your smile, too.”

  I blushed about ten shades of fucking red.

  “Thank you.”

  “I like to know who works here. It’s nice being able to connect with everyone on some sort of personal level.”

  “That’s nice, a lot of places don’t care to know their workers. Do you have kids?”

  He pointed to himself. “Me?” He laughed. “Nah, none yet. I may need a wife first. Hell, I’d settle for a girlfriend. Van keeps telling me I need to date more.”

  “Oh, is Mr. Oakley in the office today?”

  “He has court today, he’ll be in tomorrow so you can meet him.”

  “How did you two meet and decide to do business with one another?”

  “Actually, we met in the army. We both decided to do something else with our life when we got out.”

  “That’s nice.” I smiled. Army men turned lawyers. You didn’t hear that every day. “It was nice to chat a little. I think Holly is waiting for me to fill out the paperwork.”

  “Oh yes, go get official. We’re glad to have you here, Paisley. Welcome to the team. See you at dinner.”

  “Likewise, Cage. Dinner it is.”

  With that, I walked out and hurried back to my office. Referring to my office had a nice ring to it. My office.

  CHAPTER FOURTEEN

  “T ammy, are you sure it’s ok? I can call Clint and tell him to watch them. I wasn’t expecting a dinner meeting on the first day.”

  “Girl, please. These kids practically share DNA with me.”

  “I love you, thank you so much. I won’t be late.”

  “If you are, make sure you get a little something out of it.” She laughed hysterically into the phone and I couldn’t help but envision Cage in ways I shouldn’t. Holy sexy man.

  “Goodbye, Tammy!” I laughed, ending the call.

  I stared at myself in the mirror in my black cocktail dress. Ashford was a five star restaurant, you didn’t dress in anything less than fancy attire. My nerves were absolutely shot. I had no clue what the meeting was about, who I would meet, or anything. Holly gave me the location, time, and dress code. He said she’d give me details, I expected more and got less.

  Fanning myself from working my nerves up, I was
a hot, sweaty mess. The woman in the mirror reflecting back at me spoke to me from another time of my life. I felt like the true adult I was, a business woman. Feeling I had a role in life other than the title of mother. It was a good feeling, yet I was nervous. I needed to win him over, after all, this was a ninety day probationary period. I could easily get fired if Cage and I didn’t connect. Being his assistant, it was crucial we did.

  “Mommy, you look beautiful.” Livy ran and hugged my leg.

  “Thank you, sweetheart. Mommy has a work meeting to go to tonight. I probably won’t be home until you’re fast asleep. I promise I’ll tuck you in when I get home.”

  “For your new job? Are you excited? Will you have ice cream there?”

  I laughed holding this little child of mine glued to my leg as we looked in the mirror at one another. “Yes, for mommy’s new job. Not sure on the ice cream kiddo. I bet Tammy will give you some tonight.”

  “Can Monica sleep in my bed with me?”

  “I think Monica and Richie are going to sleep with their daddy at their house. Tammy is coming alone to be with you guys.”

  “I miss daddy,” She admitted.

  “You can call him before bed if you want.”

  “I want to call him now.”

  I let out a breath and handed her my phone. Arguing with the princess tonight wasn’t in the cards. She began to video call him.

  “Hey, baby.” He answered appearing on the screen.

  “Hi, daddy. I miss you.”

  “I miss you, too, bug.” Clint always called Livy bug.

  “Mommy’s all dressed up for her date. Auntie Tammy is watching me tonight.”

  “Oh yeah?”

  “Not a date!” I yelled from the background.

  “You make mommy all dolled up with your makeup?”

  “No, not this time. She looks so beautiful though.”

  “Your mommy is always beautiful.”

  Silence filled the room. Had Clint really just said that? He was being extra nice.