Page 17 of His Long-Lost Baby

So unexpected that I actually regret giving her permission to use it.

Clearing my throat, I drag my mind out of the gutter. “And what are your thoughts on the company so far, Billie?”

She takes a deep breath, her eyes flickering up to meet mine briefly. “I think it’s an exciting place to be. And your leadership is very inspiring.”

I smirk, feeling a surge of pride. “Is that so?”

“Yes,” she says, her voice barely above a whisper. “You have a way of getting results that is very impressive. And you’re always so calm and collected.”

I lean back in my chair, studying her intently. “And what about you, Billie? Do you know how to stay calm and collected under pressure?”

She nods slowly, her eyes locked on mine. “Yes, I do. I’ve always been good at handling stressful situations.”

“Good,” I say, standing up and walking around my desk to stand in front of her. “Because this environment is a fast-paced one, and I guarantee unlike any you’ve experienced yet. There’s a reason we’re the most successful tech company on the continent.”

Billie gulps, her eyes widening slightly at my words. I can see the apprehension in her expression, but also a hint of excitement. She’s like a deer caught in headlights, but with a fierce determination lurking beneath the surface. I can’t help but find her all the more alluring.

“I’m up for the challenge,” she says, her voice steady.

I lean in closer to her, so close that I can smell the sweet scent of her perfume. “I don’t doubt that,” I say. “In fact, I think you’ll excel here. You have a certain… fire in you that I appreciate.”

She shivers, and I can’t help but feel a surge of desire at the sight. I can tell she’s attracted to me too, even if she’s trying to hide it.

But, no. What am I thinking?

I didn’t call Billie in here to hit on her. My employees are strictly off-limits when it comes to that. On the contrary, I called her in because I liked her ideas in the meeting and I want to hear what else she has to say.

“You have a good eye.” I return to my seat and gesture for her to sit across from me.

Billie takes a seat, her eyes fixed on me as I shuffle through the papers on my desk. I can’t help but feel a sense of power as I look up at her. She’s a beautiful woman, with rich black hair and wide blue eyes, and I know that I have a certain effect on her. But I need to stay focused on the task at hand. I need to hear her ideas, and see what she can bring to the table.

“I want to bring you onto the Green Digit project. As head designer.”

Her eyebrows rise. “Oh.”

I can see the excitement in her expression and I can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Billie is talented, and I know that she’ll do an excellent job.

She nods eagerly, her eyes lighting up. “I won’t let you down,” she says.

“I know you won’t,” I reply, my voice low. “And in return, I’ll make sure you get all the resources you need to make this project a success.”

She smiles at me, and I can’t help but feel a sense of warmth spreading through me. This is what leadership is all about — recognizing talent and nurturing it.

“It will mean spending a lot of one-on-one time with me,” I add. “And I want you to know that I have high expectations. Whatever you think you know about this business, throw that out the window.”

Billie hesitates, her long lashes fluttering.

“Will that be a problem?” I ask.

She shakes her head. “No, not at all. I’m ready for the challenge.”

I can’t help but feel a spark of excitement at her response. Billie is exactly the kind of employee I need for this project. With her talent and my guidance, we can make Green Digit a huge success.

“Great,” I say. “Let’s get started right away. I’ll arrange for you to have access to all the resources you need, and we can start working on the project plan tomorrow morning.”

As I begin to explain the project to her, I can see the excitement growing in her eyes. She’s like a sponge, soaking up every detail and idea I throw her way.

As we stand up, I’m aware of how close we are, and how the atmosphere between us has shifted. But I remind myself that I’m her boss, and this is a professional relationship.