Now that I had her, I had no idea what I was going to do with her. I haven’t seen her in four years because I let her have her way. That wasn’t a mistake I was willing to make again. I wasn’t aware of what life she made for herself these last four years, but it wasn’t relevant anymore.

She was never going back.

I entered the private office suite and put my game face on. Celesha flashed me a friendly yet taunting smile as I bypassed her wordlessly. I ripped away my suit jacket as if it were on fire and threw my body into the chair.

“You did something illegal.”

I lifted my head from my hand to find my assistant in the doorway with her hand on her hip. “It wouldn’t be the first time.”

“Care to share?” she asked with a wide grin. I got the impression that she had a bit of a wild streak when she was younger, which only spilled over now when she was mischievous.

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.”

“You could try me. If you share, I’ll share.”

“Oh?”

“But you have to promise not to fire me.”

“You drive a hard bargain, but I’ll have to take a raincheck. If there is anything pressing that needs my attention, it will all have to be taken care of by a quarter to six. I have a meeting with Richard Simon at six.”

“Richard Simon? How do I not know about this?”

“Because I arranged it myself.”

“Isn’t he the competition?”

“Not for long.”

“You mean like…” She dragged her finger across her throat in a cutting motion.

“Would I have bothered with my favorite suit?”

She snorted. “It’s not like you couldn’t afford more favorite suits. So, where are you going? Should I arrange a car?”

“There’s no time. I’m walking. It’s just up the street at Pete’s.”

“That’s a little informal for a business meeting.”

“I figured I’d take my time and woo him a little. You know, with dinner and a movie?” I wasn’t actually taking him to dinner and a movie, but the concept was the same. My father had always used a take-charge approach and frankly, could be a bit of dick. My specialty was finesse. First, I’d get Richard to trust me.

She returned my sarcasm with some of her own. “Aren’t you the charmer.”

“That’s what they tell me. I’m hoping if I can win him over and take over Simon Acquisitions, then I can get my old man off my back. My father has always only believed in the divide and conquer method.”

“It’s a wonder he’s managed to stay married for so long.”

“My mother is much worse.”

“Wow. I guess the Chambers are a family of cutthroats.”

“My sister is the exception. The black sheep. She has a gentler touch when it comes to getting what she wants.”

“Is that your subtle way of saying she’s spoiled?”

“You’re becoming too good at your job.”

“That’s why you’re going to give me a big fat raise at the end of the year.”

“Or I could fire you and save the money,” I returned. I smiled, but she didn’t return it nor did she use her sharp tongue to answer with her customary quips. Instead, she fidgeted in her seat.

“Something wrong?”

“I, uh… have some news.”

“Go on.”

“I’m… pregnant.”

“Congratulations. Why do you look like your mother died instead?”

“Because I will need to take leave, and I know I’ve only been here a short time and don’t qualify—”

“Done. It’s not a question. Take the three months—”

“I need more than three months.” I was unable to hide my surprise so she rushed on. “I’m not expecting pay. It’s just that I’ve had difficulties in the past with pregnancy, and the doctor advised that I remain on bed rest if I hope to carry this baby full term.”

Her hands shook with physical signs of upset, and I realized my silence was contributing to her nervousness. Legally, since she hadn’t worked for me long enough, she wasn’t protected under FMLA and even so, it only covers three months leave. What she was asking for was something most employers would not grant.

“I don’t see a problem with that. You will be missed, of course, but I can assure you your position will remain intact.”

She released a loud sigh and held her chest. “I don’t know how to thank you.”