Toxic Truth

8

ZELLA

I was in the middle of getting ready for work when I got a text from Liam, asking me if I wanted to go over and choose my pictures.

And I said yes, of course. What? No judgements here.

I shoot Sydney a text, letting her know that I'll be late to work today.

I look at my reflection in the mirror, assessing my outfit. I decided to dress casual today, a black 90s button up with black pants.

Satisfied with myself, I pull my hair back in a claw clip, then wear my shoes.

I check the time and realise I'm late. My time management is shit. I quickly pick up my bag and leave the house.

When I reached Liam's floor, his assistant was surprised to see me there.

Did Liam not tell her about this?

"So he called you here?" She asks for the third time.

Biting my frustration, I grit out, "Yes."

She eyes me as if she doesn't trust me. "Okay, I'll confirm with him once. Stay here."

I scoff as she walks off. Why would I lie about her boss inviting me over?

She comes back out of the office and mutters, "He's waiting for you inside."

Walking past her I enter his office, and I'm surprised to see Liam there alone, without Matteo or Sage.

"Hi," I say awkwardly. Now that I'm here I don't know what to do. "Sage and Matteo aren't here yet?"

He shakes his head. "They won't be joining us today."

"Oh."

He's still sitting on his chair. My eyes trail from his face to his hands that are clasped in front of him on the table.

"Please have a seat, Zella." He motions at the chair in front of his desk and I realise I'm still standing.

What the hell is wrong with me today?

I quickly go over and sit on the chair, as he gets up from his and rounds the table, to sit on the chair next to me.

Oh.

He's wearing navy blue pants today and a white button up shirt. His suit jacket is ridden off and placed on the back of his chair.

And he's sitting so close to me now. Too close. I can smell his perfume. God, he smells so good.

"Zella?" He interrupts my thoughts.

"Yes?" I croak out.

"Shall we get started?"

"Yes," I sigh. I need to keep it together.

He places his laptop in front of us, and his arm brushes against mine. My breath hitches and seeing the smirk on his face he noticed that too.