Mystery Of You (Pub 5)

23 - Ms. Douglas

Monday morning arrived with drizzle. A cold, damp autumn day. Just as Ainsley was heading to the shower, her phone buzzed. She smiled as she read Ian's text. Share a ride or would you rather get wet.

Her thumbs tapped a quick response. Yes, but wet is still possible.

As she pulled off her oversized tee and dropped her panties, laughing emojis came back. She could get used to the shared commutes and a lot of other things. Although sex was on top, it was a long list.

She put on one of her shorter skirts, still work appropriate, and wished she had long legs like Lilli. Ian knocked on her door with a smile. His eyes scanned her outfit, and she watched as they darkened.

She pushed on his shoulder. "I don't like to be late. I'm not a director."

He chuckled. "So I've heard."

Mrs. Bernstein had seen them bringing in her groceries on Saturday and going out for coffee on Sunday. She smiled and said she was thrilled her two favorite people were together. It was safe to assume every stranger in their building knew about them. They could deny it, but they were a 'them'. While he was out on Saturday night, she missed his company.

Their building was one thing, but she didn't want anyone at work to know. Ian instructed the driver to turn the corner to the garage entrance. She exited first and walked around the corner to the main entrance while he disappeared through the garage.

Smiling, she beat both Henry and Nina and had dry legs. Catrina was in her office. Ainsley walked over to greet her.

Her boss looked up. "How was Friday afternoon?"

"I survived, although Henry had a good idea."

After she explained, Catrina said, "I thought they were all young. Just keep getting along with Henry. I rely on both of you."

"I'll try." Ainsley frowned hopefully things would get better knowing she wasn't single. She was in limbo between single and committed.

Nina arrived asking about her weekend without waiting for Ainsley's answer she thrust out her left hand. A diamond sparkled off her smile.

"Oh my God! You didn't text me!"

"I wanted to show you plus I know you were tangled in the sheets all weekend with your hot guy."

Henry walked around the corner frowning. Ainsley bounced with excitement. "Look! Nina's engaged!"

The man's expression changed. "Congrats!" He hugged Nina.

Ainsley walked to her desk while Nina ran off to spread her good news. He treated her differently. Even though she didn't want a hug from him, she wouldn't mind some kindness.

Leaning her head into the aisle, she called to him. "I told Catrina about your idea. She loved it."

"Did you take credit for it?"

"What? No. I'm not like that. I wouldn't put it past you though."

They were in a staring contest when Catrina appeared. "Ainsley, HR called. They need to meet with you."

A natural tightening occurred in her chest. As her palms started sweating, she thought of JJ. Could he protect her from something she didn't do? Henry's sinister smile made her think he complained about her.

She felt like her heels were filled with lead, as she made her way to the department on the first floor. A receptionist seemed to expect her. She pointed to the conference room. "You're expected."

She stepped through the door with trepidation. Around the table sat the director of HR, Joshua Roche, and Ian. Ian didn't make eye contact as he tapped one finger on his phone.