Page 69 of Illicit Education
He nodded, a silent acknowledgment of my words. “We must plan the announcement carefully," he said, his voice tinged with wisdom. “Timing is everything, and we must ensure a seamless transition that inspires confidence in both the employees and the public.”
Lark stepped up and began pacing the room. This was her area of expertise. “We should consider a carefully orchestrated unveiling that highlights your shared commitment to the company's continued success.” She looked back and forth from my father to me. “A press conference. You will express your vision for the future, while assuring stakeholders of a smooth transition.”
As the conversation continued, our plans took shape, each detail falling into place like pieces of a grand puzzle. The weight of responsibility sat heavily on my shoulders, but I embraced it eagerly; I had been groomed for this very moment.
In the coming days, the world would witness the passing of the torch, the changing of the guard. Reed Enterprises would embark on a new chapter, with me at the helm, where I belonged. Guided by the wisdom of my father, the unwavering love of my mother, and fueled by my steadfast determination.
Chapter Twenty-Five
Rylan
By the end of the first week at Reed Publishing, Mr. Reed and I had fallen into an easy working relationship. He gave me manuscripts to read each morning and I read them, then reported back–to which he would agree with my feedback or challenge me. He was, at times, aloof—the Smirker I’d met on my first day. Other times, he was gruff and demanding.
It was those times in between, when we truly connected on something, that made this job harder by the minute.
Fighting my growing attraction to him was a constant battle.
But we’d handled ourselves with professionalism, and, aside from a few flippant comments here and there, we hadn’t discussed the obvious attraction between us since Tuesday afternoon in his office. I was five days into my twelve-week internship and loving every minute of it.
When he found me around four o’clock, tucked into my place beneath the tree sculpture in the lobby of Reed Tower, it was no surprise. I’d spent every day in this spot, reading the amazing manuscripts he allowed me access to.
The surprise was the lavender latte he’d brought me. The second one this week.
I looked up at him, narrowing my eyes.
He squatted to my level. “It’s just a coffee, Ms. Blake.”
It was so much more than a coffee. It showed his thoughtful side, the side of him he only allowed glimpses of—and rarely at that.
Reaching out, I accepted the drink, watching him as I brought the cup to my nose. I inhaled the scent and smiled. “Thank you.”
His eyes held mine as he nodded. “Much better than last time, Ms. Blake.”
But then he didn’t leave.
And as was always the case while in his presence, it didn’t take long for my blood to heat.
For my veins to begin buzzing with desire.
For my breath to become weak and unsteady.
“You look different,” I murmured.
He looked… happy.
Which was confusing.
“I’ve just received some pleasant news.”
Nodding, I really took him in. He wasn’t smiling—let’s not get too carried away—but there was obvious joy in his eyes.
It made him even more attractive, which shouldn’t be humanly possible and definitely wasn’t fair to the rest of the world.
I hadn’t seen him in White Rabbit all week, but I’d wanted to. Oh, how I’d wanted to. I’d imagined it a million-and-a-half ways. He’d approach me at the cash register, staring me down with those onyx eyes. He’d extend his hand to me and I’d slip my hand into his, then he’d lead me downstairs, into the Rabbit Hole–
“Do you think you can keep your professional life separate from your private life?”
His words caught me off guard, so lost in my imaginary moment as I was. “What?”