Distance

Chapter 2

Avery's POV

I can hear my alarm going off but I'm still exhausted from my journey. I know it would be a terrible idea to sleep in. Although my first day will technically be tomorrow, I can't afford to wreck my sleep schedule already.

I roll out of bed and begin to sift through my clothes. I take the time to hang up some of my blouses to avoid further wrinkling but figure I'll have the afternoon to sort through everything. I pick out some black slacks that cuff above the ankle and light blouse to ensure a semi professional introduction to the James'. I know I'll have to assert myself as a young profession, especially after last night.

I hadn't expected their son to be... the way he was. He had exuded sex appeal last night when he greeted me with his pants clinging to his hips and his muscular torso exposed. His messy bed head made it obvious he had probably given up on waiting for me, which is probably why he seemed so disheveled, but he did a great job recovering. He had no issues sprinkling in his charm and definitely felt comfortable enough to check out my ass.

As much as I wouldn't have minded someone like that checking me out a week ago, the fact of the matter is he is my boss. One way or another he is above me in this professional setting and it would be incredibly inappropriate if anything were to happen between us.

And yet I can't help but feel excited by the thought.

I quietly leave my room, anxious to meet my new boss. I follow the sound of banter to the the dining area.

"Good morning." An older man greets as they all turn their attention toward me.

"I'm so glad you made it in alright!" An older woman smiles kindly.

Holden is sat on his mother's other side and is, thankfully, wearing a shirt this time.

"Good morning," I smile before going over to shake their hands, "It's nice to finally meet you both in person, Mr. and Mrs. James."

"Please call me Cecilia," Mrs. James makes her way around to hug me. She's much taller than I expected. I guess that explains why Holden is almost a giant.

"I hope our son was able to help you with all your things last night," Mr. James smiles while offering his son a playful look.

"Actually it was a little late when I got here so I figured we could get everything this morning," I explain.

"Well how late was it?" Mrs. James frowns with concern.

"2 a.m." Holden answers for me.

"Did something happen along the way?" Mr. James quickly asks with confusion.

"I just got a flat tire yesterday and had to deal with that," I shake my head, "It's no big deal."

"Oh," Mrs. James frowns, "Did someone stop to help or did you have to call a tow truck? We can reimburse you for the truck."

"Oh no!" I laugh, "I changed the tire myself. It just slowed me down a bit is all."

"I'm surprised she knows how to change a tire," Holden says aloud to no one in particular.

His parents' silence echoes his thought, however, which is a bit irritating.

"Well my step-dad taught me how to take care of my car when I got my license," I assure, "I mean I'm no mechanic but I can do a decent amount of maintenance."

"Well, we're glad everything was alright," Mrs. James smiles brightly, "We were going to have Holden take you into town and show you around but I understand if you're tired from your trip."