Confessions of a Twenty-Something City Girl

Whatever You Say, Boss

"Kingston, say something," Jamie whispers as I stand in shock. 

I tear my gaze away from Noah's and glance around the room, seeking reassurance from Jamie. "Uh, hi, everyone! I'm Kingston Hart," I manage to stammer, my eyes inevitably drawn back to Noah's piercing stare. "And I'm thrilled to be joining you as the new Junior Sportswriter."

"Welcome aboard, Kingston," Noah responds smoothly, his demeanor relaxed. "Tell us a bit about yourself," he prompts, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Oh, God. He's enjoying this.

"Of course" I pause, "Mr. Westbrook." I turn to address the room, trying to ignore the swirling nerves in my stomach. "I'm from Orange County, where I worked for our local newspaper throughout college, and in my spare time, you can find me playing a good old-fashioned game of Two Truths and a Lie." I finish, meeting Noah's gaze head-on.

"Oh, I love that game!" Jamie interjects enthusiastically, breaking the tension as chatter resumes around us. But Noah's eyes remain fixed on mine.

"Well, then," Conrad interrupts, "Let's get to work. Quickly, people. Today is going to be a busy one." He shifts his focus to me. "You'll stay here for the sportswriters' meeting."

As the employees begin to file out, a crowd gathers around Noah, and Jamie breaks through my thoughts. "Alright, Kingston, are you ready for your first assignment?"

"Heck yeah, I am," I reply, trying to concentrate on Jamie although my mind is a million miles away thinking about what just happened.

"I think you'd be the perfect person to interview Russ Foxx today," Jamie continues urgently. "He's potentially leaving the Lakers for the Warriors, and if we can snag the exclusive, it'll be huge for Sports Digest."

"Wait, Jamie, I thought I was covering this?" Tyson chimes in.

"Change of plans," Jamie says, turning to Tyson. "I think Kingston will be our best shot at getting the intel."

"He's right, man," Wyatt adds with a nod of agreement.

"I'm going to assume you mean because of my dashing personality and ability to connect with others and not because I'm a woman but carry on," I cheekily reply.

"You're the whole package, Kingston," Jamie affirms with a warm smile. "When Russ arrives today, I'll introduce you two and you can arrange a meeting."

"On it," I respond confidently.

"Great, go prep your questions and start your research. I'll check back with you once he's here," Jamie instructs.

"Thank you so much," I say gratefully as I rise and exit the conference room, nearly colliding with a flustered Elijah.

"Kingston!" Elijah exclaims, grabbing my arm. "Mr. Westbrook wants to see you in his office."

My heart drops. "Uh, okay. I'll head there now. Thanks, Elijah," I manage with a nervous smile.

"You lucky biatch," he sassily responds, winking at me as we laugh. "Head to his receptionist and she'll take you in."

As I head toward Noah's office, my heart pounds in my throat. I have no idea what this means for my job security or my relationship with Noah. I can't stand the thought of not having either. I feel my phone vibrating in my pocket. I pull it out to find an unread text message. It's from Noah.

I'm waiting for you, Miss Hart.

With each step toward his office, nerves flutter through my body. I reach the beautiful brunette sitting outside, "Do you have an appointment?" She asks sharply.