RC.

Ch5 .................. R

Read Slowly ...

When I get to the building, Jake's there, in front of the large glass doors.

T:"Hi, Jake."

He seems surprised to see me at this time of day.

Jake:"What are you doing ... ?"

He pauses and looks at his feet for a moment, running a hand through his hair.

Jake:"What are YOU doing here ?"

A beautiful smile illuminates his face.

(I lie.)

T:"I forgot something in my office ..."

Jake:"If you haven't got it in your head, must have it in your legs!"

T:"That's right, you've figured it!"

                                   •

I proudly show my pass! Yes, this time I can taunt the guard at the entrance ...

Well ... apparently, given the bovine expression on his face, he doesn't remember me ...

In the elevator, my heart beats faster as the floors go by.

(I hope you know what you're doing, Tayla ...)

(I'm playing a dangerous game.)

Yes. I'm playing a dangerous game... like everytime he challenges me...

When the elevator opens into the lobby, I walk, hesitantly, to my CEO's office.

I knock on the door, my heart racing.

I hold my breath as he opens the door. He has a strange gleam in his eyes.

He gives me a long look. A little more and I'll lose the little self-control I have left.

Mr. Carter:"Come in..."

His voice is warm. It sounds like a sweet promise to my ears or perhaps a diabolical invitation.

Just so long as long the devil is this sexy ...

As I step into the room, I hear him close the door behind me.

When I turn around, my heart skips a beat. I try to ignore what I'm feeling between my legs...

He's leaning against the door-post, his tie slightly loosened and his grey eyes gazing at me as he gently strokes the titanium of his cufflinks.

It's official, I've just walked into the lion's den!

My reason is urging me to back out. Right now!

But!...

(It's very exciting.)

Looks like this time, little Red Riding Hood is glad to have run into the big bad wolf! ...

(Naughty Little Red Riding Hood!)

He's staring at me. It feels as though he can see right through me.

A smile floats on his lips, while his eyes are squinting slightly.

T:"You ... You wanted to see me?"

Mr. Carter:"Yes."

He leaves the doorway and walks slowly towards me.

T:"Well, here I am."

My confidence waves as he approaches.

He walks around me gently.

Mr. Carter:"You know you're exasperating?"

T:"Why ... because I don't always let you have the last word?"

A smile appears on his magnificent lips. He leans his head slightly to the side.

Mr. Carter:"I always have the last word, Miss White."

(Are you always so pretentious?)

T:"If that's what you like to think. . . But you happen to be wrong sometimes, sir."

I hope he won't notice anything, but I feel my temerity wavering.

Mr. Carter:"What insolence! ... I could shut you up so easily!"

I let out a mocking laugh.

T:"For that, you'd have to gag me."

I regret my words as soon as they're spoken. I spoke too fast.

Mr. Carter:"I wouldn't make such a proposition if I were you, I may take it at face value."

His words leave me speechless! I feel a wave of heat rising in me and I turn my eyes away so as to hide what I'm feeling.

He smiles, well aware of the effect that this provocative statement could trigger in me ...

Mr. Carter:"I'm joking, miss White, but you have to admit you were asking for it..."

He moves slightly away, his eyes fixed on me, watching for my reaction.

I try to regain my composure during this little respite.