Taming the Alter Ego Read Free Page A

as if fleeing the scene of a crime. I took a deep breath as an intense satisfaction settled in my chest. My plan of seduction had begun and I would only be satisfied when I knew that it worked and he craved me.

Chapter Two
    “Miss Haley, may I have a word?”
    The unquestioning respect was almost as thrilling as Tom addressing me directly, which caused a distinctive warmth to spread through my chest.
    I still noticed he only seemed able to hold my gaze for a short time. The almost imperceptible flicker of his eyes excited me, making my pussy pulsate.
    I knew there would be no negative comeback for my daring act. His amazing timidity was unlike most of Management , so full of bluster. Tom was the quiet type, not needing overblown actions to demonstrate his authority.
    I searched his face for a sign of the discovery, curiosity building from the previous day. Nicholas had called around three o’ clock, by which time I had already guessed their lunch would be an extended one. Fortunately, he was too inebriated to read anything into me questioning whether Tom would also not return. I was disappointed, knowing the chance to discover whether alcohol would loosen his tongue and bolster his courage was lost.
    After several trips past my door, Tom entered with me in his sights rather than Nicholas. Nerves were immediately evident, a cough concluding the question uttered in his rich deep tone.
    “Of course.” My reply, like my directed gaze, exhibited composure, displaying no sign of my suddenly increased heart rate. “Please call me Mariella.”
    “Thanks—Mariella.”
    I could barely contain my elation at hearing him say my name for the first time, forcing me to knit my tingling fingers together beneath the desk.
    Willing him to find a reason to repeat it, I appeared effortlessly composed as I waited for him to continue.
    Slipping his hands into his trouser pockets, my gaze briefly drew to his crotch. “You’re probably aware I’m yet to find an assistant.”
    I nodded somberly, as if concerned by his serious problem.
    “Interviews are on-going,” he offered, like I’d requested elaboration.
    Saying nothing, I continued to hold him with a steady gaze, patiently awaiting the conclusion of our maiden conversation.

    “In the meantime, I’d appreciate your help.”
    Sweet satisfaction immediately surged through my insides, rushing past my heart like it was a rock in the middle of a rapid river but showing no sign.
    “Nicholas speaks very highly of you,” he added, before I could reply.
    “I’m sure you wouldn’t find it too difficult.”
    I wanted to laugh—his attempt to butter me up so careful and yet so unnecessary. “I like to think I do my job well and I’m glad to have that recognized.”
    He paused as did I, making him wait after a response that offered nothing.
    His gaze flickered impatiently to my lips, earning him a slight smile, which made his lashes tremble with a rapid blink. “You would, of course, get paid overtime,” he hurriedly added.
    Letting my smile widen a little, I ignored the heat that licked my nipples in their desire for attention, before finally offering a response, “I’d be happy to help.”
    He smiled—oh, my word, that smile—which lightened his already handsome face and made his dark eyes gleam. My heart swelled as I fought the desire to kiss it from his face. “Thank you, Mariella.”
    My passage walls contracted as I smiled warmly. “You’re welcome, Tom.”
    Watching him walk away, I imagined him enjoying hearing his name on my tongue. He caught my smile when he glanced back.
    The distinct scent of cigars met my nostrils, mingled with the aftershave that usually trailed behind him. The pungent aroma was unexpected, but I liked it as it suited him.
    Elation almost caused me to laugh aloud, making it necessary to bite my lip. Of course, it was possible he was setting me up for a rebuke, arranging a meeting with human resources for disciplinary action, but I doubted