into my inbox from Roger.
I printed off the documents he wanted ASAP and headed to the printer to pick them up before swinging by his office. On my walk to the printer, my mind drifted to Roger and the company I was working for. It was obvious Roger would turn into his father one day. Roger’s father was a filthy rich man, hell-bent on owning everyone and everything in this town. I knew the kind of person Roger was, and honestly, I couldn’t see such a mean and evil person running a company that went out of their way to find cures for cancer. It was a complete and utter contradiction. His family, running and owning a company that cared for others loved ones was just against everything I knew of Roger.
I pushed all the horrible thoughts to the back of my mind as I focused in on Roger’s door. I stared at it blankly for a moment before knocking on it softly and waiting for him to say come in.
You never walked into Roger’s office unannounced. I remember the last assistant he had ended up being fired and escorted out on the spot. He was very secretive about his work. Whatever went on in his office was his business and his business alone.
“Come in.” His voice was deep, and as I pushed the door open and walked into the room, I could see the entire city before me. He had the best view in the building. One that looked out into the robust city. I focused on the view, knowing very well that his eyes were glued to my every movement. I could feel his gaze penetrating every orifice of my body.
“I see you’re doing much better at following orders today.” He smiled, but it wasn’t genuine. It was as fake as Tammy’s tits in Office C. Who was Tammy, you ask? Oh, his most recent fuck. The newest intern in the building, and the most open about her friends with benefits relationship with Roger.
“Here’s your paperwork you asked for.” I dismissed his comment, not wanting to engage in a ridiculous conversation about something I could care less about. Instead, I turned on my heels to leave, only to be stopped when I heard his throat clear behind me. I wanted to turn around and lash out, to make him understand what he said to me meant nothing.
“Maggie…” Every time he said my name, it caused my stomach to revolt. He was just as sinister now as he was in high school.
“Yes,” I said between clenched teeth, my face turned away from him. I hadn’t ever truly hated anyone in my entire life, but Roger was the exception. If he were dying in a burning building, I would sit and watch. Maybe even bring stuff to make s’mores.
“We all know why you took a job here. It’s not as if you actually care for the company, but more so what it can do for you.” I took a deep breath, the room seemingly growing smaller as air filled my lungs only to be released like a deflated balloon a moment later. Breathe. Deep breaths.
“That…” Was that true? I had never admitted to such a thing. Sweat formed on my palms. I hated feeling as if I were trapped without an escape route.
“Don’t even say it’s not true when we both know it is. You took this job for that fucking crippled kid.”
Crippled kid… Don’t make him eat his words. Kill him with kindness.
“He had a name.” I forced the words from my mouth. I didn’t want to talk about him . His death wasn’t fair to anyone, not his family, not to me, or to him.
“Whatever, his name doesn’t matter. Not anymore at least. What does is the fact you took a job working for me, yet it seems as if you would much rather not be here most days.” I could hear his footsteps across the marble flooring, my heart beat rising with every step.
“I love my job…” I lied, trying not to stutter over my words. I hated my job, but I hated Roger and what he reminded me of more. Hurt. Pain.
A deep robust laugh filled the room. “That is the biggest fucking lie I have ever heard.” His hot breath was on the back of my neck. I should’ve turned around. I should’ve told him
Lee Strauss, Elle Strauss