Read Online J'adore New York by Isabelle Lafleche - Free Book Online Page A

language from an old prospectus into plain English so that it complies.”
    “Will do.”
    “Do you have a second to talk?”
    “Of course.”
    He shuts the door before walking closer to my desk, and I feel momentarily intoxicated by his cologne. It catches me off guard. Could I be attracted to a man who treated me like a piece of papier mâché just a few days ago? No, it’s probably just that my hormones and pheromones are a bit out of whack from the stress—I’m reacting to any testosterone that comes within a five-foot radius of my body.
    He looks out my window before taking a seat in one of the chairs.
    “You really lucked out. The view is amazing.”
    “Not for long. Everyone around here is making a point of reminding me that it’s only temporary.”
    “They’re just jealous.” He runs a finger along one of the petals of the pink lilies I picked up to soften the masculine surroundings. “Catherine, I’m sorry I was abrupt with you the other day. I’m under a lot of pressure.” His eyes remain focused on the flowers.
    Surprised by his apology, my body relaxes.
    “It’s okay, I understand. Besides, you were right. I should have reviewed those documents more carefully.”
    “I agree, but I shouldn’t have snapped at you like that.”
    “Apology accepted.”
    He pauses, then shoots me a shy grin.
    “I heard Bonnie made you draft a memo on dry cleaners.”
    “How did you find out?”
    “Rikash sent it to the entire support staff, and my secretary sent me a copy. Bonnie can be a bit demanding.”
    A bit demanding? How about a lot of a dictator? I keep that one to myself.
    “What do you think she’s trying to prove with that nonsense?”
    “That she’s the boss. She’s worked really hard to get where she is, and I suppose she wants to share the pain.”
    “She’s doing a fine job of it.”
    “She was like that with me at first. But she eventually warms up,” he says unconvincingly.
    “I bet she warms up to me like a polar bear does to a sea lion.”
    He chuckles as he loosens his tie. It’s the first time I’ve seen him smile.
    “Catherine, I’d like to continue working with you on the Dior matter even after I’ve moved to Paris.”
    “Of course,” I respond, trying to keep a straight face.
    “It will be a good way for me to stay up to date with what’s going on in the New York office. I feel like I’m going to get disconnected from base camp.”
    Sensing that he’s about to open up, I wait for him to continue.
    “I’m worried that moving to Paris will mean taking a step back in my career.”
    “Not necessarily, there’s lot of great work in that office, and the partners are exceptionally smart.”
    “How was it for you? Did you have a good rapport with them?”
    “I’d say yes. I had occasional run-ins with some of my colleagues, but they’re a talented bunch, and I completely respect them.”
    He continues to stare at the floor as a moment of not-uncomfortable silence passes between us. The look on his face makes me wonder if his move was his decision.
    “And I’m sure you could come back to New York if you wanted to.”
    “Not once I’m out of the loop. I just hope this won’t ruin my chances of making partner. I’m up for it this year.”
    “I’m sure it won’t. It seems like you’re one of the best they’ve got.”
    He smiles tenderly before standing.
    “Thanks, Catherine, I really appreciate it.”
    “No problem. My pleasure.”
    “I really mean it, thank you.” He turns around to look my way before crossing to the doorway. “Oh, and I meant to tell you that I really like what you’re wearing today. That dress looks brilliant on you.”
    Surprised by his compliment, it takes a moment before it actually registers. I want to reply that he doesn’t look too shabby in his impeccably tailored pinstripe suit either.
    “Thanks.”
    He walks out into the hallway, both hands in his trouser pockets, looking sad, and my heart drops at the thought of no longer