A taste of revenge. Pt. 2

Lena:

I take a deep breath and brace myself for the impact.

I can do this

I can do this

I can do this

I repeat the mantra over and over so I can make it stick in my brain. The whole ride over I’ve been second-guessing myself for rebelling like this. Ryan is going to kill me, or worst, fire me. But I can’t let him get away with humiliating me. And now that I’m standing in front of the door that leads to the event, I’m freaking out.

I don’t know how, but I draw courage from deep inside of me, plaster a confident smile in my face and walk through the doors.

The room immediately falls silent. Everyone is staring at me like I’m an alien that just arrived to Earth and doesn’t belong. I ignore every fowl stare they throw at me and head straight for Ryan, who’s looking at me like he wants to gut me with a fork. I knew it was risky coming to a black-tie event wearing white. But this is exactly what I wanted, taking control. He might be my boss, but I won’t let him control me.

I make my way towards him and give him the fakest smile I can muster.

“Goodnight Mr. Blake. I hope you’re satisfied with my outfit.” I know he’s not, but I also know he’ll never admit it, not even if hell freezes over.

“It’ll do,” he replies and I can see he’s restraining himself.

“You got yourself a feisty one, Ryan. Aren’t you going to introduce us?” A guy standing next to Ryan speaks up and he’s really handsome. Dark wavy hair, piercing black eyes and freckles all over his nose. He looks boyish, but I’m sure he’s an actual grownup. A hot one at that.

“Dan, this is Lena Marzoli, my secretary. Lena, this is Dan Reynolds, the Vice President of the company.” Ryan introduces us and I don’t know why, but I detect some reluctance in doing so.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Miss Marzoli.” Dan grabs my hand while he speaks an as soon he finishes his words, kisses the back of my hand.

“Likewise,” I reply and as I turn to Ryan, I can see he just walked away without a word.

Strange.

“Well, well, well. Finally, someone who can shake the stoicism out of Ryan. I’m impressed, Lena,” says Dan and I take a small bow.

“What can I say, it’s a talent.”

“Now, I’m just a little bit curious. Why is everyone staring at you like you’re a wanted criminal?” He looks really curious about that, and was really close too.

“That would be my dad, actually. Stole quite a lot from most of the people in here, in fact,” I say casually, like it’s no big deal, “but I’m sure you already knew about it.”

“Only the bits and pieces Ryan spills while he’s blacked out drunk. I might be his best friend, but he’s as closed as a vault.” His statement leaves me speechless. I know he’s always serious and uptight, but he doesn’t trust anyone and I know it’s because of me.

“Yeah, well, his hatred for me is clear even without him being drunk.”

“He might be closed tight about his past, but I know him, and he doesn’t really hate you. Resentment, maybe. After all, you did ruin his life. And yet, he’s madly attracted to you.” The smile he gives me leaves no room for doubt. And yet my brain can’t wrap around it.

“He despises me and shows it every day.”

“Because he doesn’t want to want you like he does. He’s frustrated. Sexually frustrated which is worst, if you ask me.”

“I don’t know,” I reply with uncertainty. “I’ve seen the way he looks at me and I annoy him to the core.”

“Very well. Let’s make a bet. I bet he’s going to get you alone somewhere in this building within the next 30 minutes. If I’m right, you tell me the most embarrassing thing that’s happened to you. If I’m wrong-”

“You’ll owe me a favor,” I interrupt him, knowing that he’s important enough to have as an ace under my sleeve.

“I guess this settles it. Although, if you’re thinking about making it a sexual favor, think twice Miss. I’m pure and cast and don’t give my body up that easily. You’ll have to work for getting a piece of this delicious ass.”

His response takes me off-guard. I can’t help but laugh so hard that tears are pooling in my eyes. This man is a total flirt and there’s no way to hide it.

He smiles at me like he just won something. My laughter dies a little but, before I can react, I feel someone standing behind me and judging for the scent, I know is Ryan.

“Follow me, now.” I stay fixed in my place. I have no idea why he sounds so angry, so my body refuses to follow him.

“Easiest bet I’ve won in my life,” whispers Dan in my ear and I give him nasty stare. Asshole.

“I said now, Lena.” Ryan speaks and takes me out of my stupor. I force my feet to follow him, fully knowing that I have no idea of what’s going to happen. After a short walk, he enters a room and holds the door open for me. After crossing the threshold, I can see it’s just a random office, but just when I think of relaxing, I hear the door lock and I know I’m not

ready for what’s about to happen.