As I looked over the menu, I had to keep reminding myself that this was a business lunch. The waitress set our glasses of wine down and proceeded to take our order. I ordered first and couldn’t help but stare at him as he looked over the menu. He was a man beyond any woman’s wildest dreams in the looks department. After he placed his order, I decided to ask him about my position.

“Why didn’t you tell me that you hired me as a marketing manager? I was under the impression I was hired as an associate.”

His lip curled as he began to speak. “You’ll make a better manager. It’s what I decided.”

“I don’t have any managerial skills and what if it’s not what I wanted?”

“What’s not to want? Your salary is double. You’ll get a monthly bonus and a company car. Not to mention the best healthcare benefits, including dental and vision. Plus, you have an office with a window.”

“A company car?”

“Yes. A company car. One will be waiting for you when you get home.” He grinned. “As for your managerial skills, you’ll figure it out. I have faith in you. Plus, I talked to your ex-boss, Kendra. She raved about you.”

I could feel the heat rise in my cheeks, so I looked down to avoid any embarrassment. “Are there any other perks I should know about?”

He took a sip of his wine. “Only if you want there to be.” He winked.

My stomach started to twist itself in a knot and my palms began to sweat. Why was he doing this to me? I needed to calm down and stay strong.

“Have you ever stayed at one of my hotels?”

“No. I’m sorry to say I haven’t.”

“Then maybe we’ll have to take care of that. If you’re going to work for me, then you should at least become familiar with the hotel. Perhaps the one where the gala was held. I’m sorry about that night. I was about to come over to you and tell you how beautiful you looked, but a business associate of mine needed me. So I’m going to tell you now. You looked incredibly beautiful that night. In fact, from what I can see, you’re beautiful every day.”

My heart was racing and I didn’t know what to say. My already heated cheeks were now on fire. I looked down first before picking up my glass and taking a sip of wine.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

The waitress came by and set our plates in front of us. I picked up a piece of my tomato, basil, and fresh mozzarella pizza and took a bite. “See? I eat.” I smirked.

“I see that. Good to know.”