Saved: A Billionaire Romance (The Saved Series Book 1) Read Free Page B

has to say to you." I agreed to keep her posted and tried to compose myself before getting up from my desk. Jackson Harter's office was located on the opposite end of the floor. I smoothed my skirt and shirt, making sure I looked neat and professional. I walked slowly enough to keep from falling but quickly enough so that it wouldn't seem like I was keeping him waiting.
    It was obvious the boss was onsite because everyone was working diligently. There weren't any conversations at the copy machine or long breaks in the kitchen. People were serious about their jobs today because everyone was afraid that a visit from the big boss could mean impending layoffs or big changes.
    When I reached Mr. Harter's office, his assistant, Natalie West, told me to have a seat and she would let me know when he was ready. She had been his assistant for several years, and she didn't mingle with the rest of the office staff. She knew way too much to gossip with any of us, and I respected her for that.
    I sat in the first leather chair closest to her desk and tried not to fidget as I waited for the decision about my fate. I heard Natalie on the phone with Mr. Harter, and my heart began to race. Fear crept up into my throat as I imagined him telling me that the company only wanted the very best people, and that after the show I put on last night, I was no longer welcome at Harter Communications.
    "Ms. James, Mr. Harter will see you now."
    "Thank you, Ms. West." I stood up and tried to approach the door to the office with my head held high. I could try to maintain my pride for at least a few more seconds. His office was surrounded by smoky glass, and the doors had large silver handles. I grasped one in my small hand and pulled it toward me.
    When I walked in, I was shocked by what I saw. Televisions covered one entire wall and there were video feeds of every radio show being broadcast at the station. A large desk stood in the center of the room with a leather chair behind it. There was a bathroom to the right, but I couldn't see much since the door was only partially open. There was also a couch and two large, leather chairs near the windows that overlooked downtown Chicago. Everything in the office was black and white. The room screamed power and money, and it didn't make me feel any better about the intimidation factor of this meeting request.
    "Hello Ms. James." His deep voice sent a chill down my spine and made me ache at the same time. I was terrified and turned on, and that was never a good combination. I knew that all too well from a shadow that still followed me everywhere I went.
    "Hello Mr. Harter. Janet said you wanted to speak with me." I turned to face him and tried to remain calm, but I had a feeling he wouldn't miss the slight quiver in my voice. I hated exuding anything but confidence at work, and I was afraid this interaction would cause me to lose so much of the ground I had already gained since I had been here at the company.
    "Yes, I thought it was important that we speak privately. It's not often that I meet someone in my private life who works for me without my knowledge." As he spoke, I could tell that he was trying to be serious, but the left corner of his mouth betrayed him, turning up into a sexy smirk. His green tie was the only pop of color in the room, and it made his eyes look almost clear. He knew I was intimidated, and he enjoyed it.
    "I had no idea who you were, Mr. Harter. I'm so sorry for last night. I know you won't believe it, but I never do things like that. Hawthorne's is my favorite place to go. It is pretty much the only place I go besides here." I was babbling at this point, and I felt like a complete idiot in his presence. But he took a few steps closer so that only about a foot of space separated us.
    "I'm not accusing you of anything, Ms. James. Especially since I was the one who initiated what happened between us in the bathroom. I do apologize for my abrupt nature, but when I see something I want, I go