Billionaire Boss (2 page)

T
his girl has
me feeling all sorts of twisted. Temptation. That’s what it must be. Samantha - the forbidden fruit.

I don’t know what came over me with that kiss. I’m known to be brazen and go after what I want, but that was ballsy, even for me. I had to. I want her so bad. I’ve thought about it every day since the first time I laid eyes on her. I had to have a taste.

I was instantly attracted to her the first time I saw her. The first thing I noticed was Sam’s tight little body. She has nice curves in all the right places. And that long, thick, brown, hair? It’s perfect for grabbing onto - if you’re into that - which I am… There have been days she’s come into the office with her hair hanging loose over her back and my cock gets hard just looking at her.

And let’s not forget those cute little skirts she wears for me. They’re just long enough to be appropriate, but short enough to stir some very impure thoughts. She knew what she was doing…

In another scenario, I would fuck her based on looks alone. Having my father, Garrison Grant, as owner and president of Grant and Son, makes everything different. I would be putting everything I have at risk if I was caught fucking an intern. It makes Samantha the ultimate taboo.

It’s not completely physical though. I’ve heard about her from Kaitlyn and some other coworkers. I’ve gotten to know her a little through a few meetings and conferences she’s sat in on. We’ve had some short but entertaining conversations. The girl is smart. She’s got some great ideas. She’s full of ambition and drive. Samantha isn’t one of those cookie cutter bimbos that seek me out, and for a guy like me, that’s also a huge fucking turn on.

Intelligence… This girl has it in spades… And I want to fuck her brains out.

I had my chance. I could have pushed her up against the wall outside of that club and had my fucking way, but I didn’t.

I had her, and I let her go. She’d ended her internship and went back to finish up her degree. I didn’t even get a chance to say goodbye.

Maybe it was better this way.

All I know is… I felt like the stupid one.

I
’m still
in disbelief as I look up at the skyscrapers surrounding me on my walk to work. Once I left New York, I never thought I would come back to Manhattan. I enjoyed the laid back lifestyle of the south - and the weather. When Kaitlyn emailed me about a position in the department she’s now running at Grant and Son, I couldn’t resist. I would be stupid to pass it up.

I was hired immediately after college by a small company in Miami that I worked part time for while I was in school. The pay was nice, the company is fine, but after a couple of years living there without being in school, I realized it just wasn’t for me. I was just coasting along not really sure what to do. Then the email came.

A few years ago, Kaitlyn was promoted to head of finance management at Grant and Son. It’s a prestigious position that holds a lot of responsibility. I was pretty honored when she contacted me and asked if I wanted to join her team. We’ve stayed in touch over the years so she knew I was feeling stuck where I was.

I didn’t have to think about Kaitlyn’s offer for very long. My mother offered to let me live with her in my childhood home on Long Island. She’s really excited that I’m back. I didn’t really want to commute, or live home at the age of twenty six, but it’s going to have to do for now. I can’t afford the rent in Manhattan just yet.

I’m a little nervous for my first day. I’m familiar with the building, and I know some of the same people that still work there, but this is a whole new ball game. I have a degree and experience now. I’m not an intern anymore. I’m a paid employee who’s expected to perform at the top of my game. Grant and Son only hires the best of the best. I have some big shoes to fill there.

Kaitlyn always valued me and knows I have a great work ethic, but I’m still not quite sure how she got me in the door. I know for a fact there were several more qualified people applying for the position she offered me. I want to think that Mason had something to do with approving her request, but I’m sure after six years he doesn’t even remember me.

He’s part of the reason I have anxiety about working in this office. He’s also moved up as his father has taken a step back. Garrison is openly working his way toward retirement and for the most part, Mason runs the whole operation. Not that I’ve been following him or anything, but keeping in touch with Kaitlyn has also given me the inside scoop on all of the little things that happened since I left.

I enter the large, two story, marble lobby. Kaitlyn has to be called by security since I don’t have an employee badge yet. After a short conversation, they let me through and I ride the elevator up to the twenty fifth floor which is occupied solely by Grant and Son.

The doors open and the office is already bustling with activity. I announce my presence to the receptionist.

“So nice to meet you, Ms. Roberts,” she greets me, “I’m Alex. Kaitlyn is waiting for you. You can follow me to her office.”

“You can call me ‘Sam’,” I reply as she crosses to the front of the large reception area.

Alex motions for me to follow her. She makes small talk as we walk down the long, white hallway. Apparently Grant and Son has expanded a great deal since I left. The area that used to house a majority of the company, is now devoted just to the financial management team.

Alex stops when we reach the end and knocks on the door.
Corner office - nice Kaitlyn.

“Sam!” Kaitlyn says excitedly. She jumps up from behind her desk and embraces me in a warm hug, “I’m so excited to have you back.”

“Thanks. I’m happy to
be
back,” I reply with a smile, “nice digs,” I add, eyeing the large corner office.

“Thanks. I knew I’d have this office one day. I’m just glad I didn’t have to kill anyone to get it.”

“I’ll let you two catch up. If you need someone to show Sam around, let me know,” Alex offers.

“Thank you, Alex,” Kaitlyn answers.

Alex leaves the office and closes the door.

“She’s gorgeous. I can’t stand it,” Kaitlyn says to me in a joking manner. “I swear sometimes Mason must have ‘must look like a model’ as part of the qualifications for new hires.”

Mason.
“Still up to his old tricks?” I ask casually.

“Of course. He doesn’t give his time to the women who work here, but I’m pretty sure he’s working his way down Wall Street.”

“Sounds like nothing’s changed.”

“Not on that end, but as far as business is concerned, Grant has grown dramatically since you left. Mason took over completely as CEO, and we’re talking about having our first billion dollar quarter.”

“I was reading about it before I moved back. Good for Mason…”

“Yes - good for him
and
us,” Kaitlyn replied, “I worked my ass off to get this position and so far it’s paid off handsomely. I think you’re really going to like it here.”

“I think I will,” I answer hesitantly, “I just hope I can keep up with everyone.”

“You’re a rock star, Sam, you’ll be up to par in no time,” Kaitlyn complements me. She checks her watch, “I have a conference call in a few. Do you mind if I have Alex show you around?”

“Sure, no problem.”

“We can catch up at lunch.”

Kaitlyn picks up her phone and calls reception. Alex appears just a few moments later.

“Would you mind giving Sam a tour? Show her around the office and introduce her to the rest of the team. I’ll come take over when my call is finished,” Kaitlyn advises Alex.

“Of course. No problem.”

“I’ll see you for lunch,” I tell Kaitlyn before following Alex out the door.

We walk and talk. Alex points out where each door leads to on our way to the area I will be working. We enter a large room filled with cubicles which is where my desk is.

Alex knows each employee and introduces me kindly as we pass each desk. I learn that there are three women in reception that work exclusively for the financial management office. Alex works directly for Kaitlyn as her assistant.

She leads me outside to the main hallway and shows me how to get to each of the other branches of Grant. One corner of the twenty fifth floor is devoted to conference rooms. They each have a spectacular view of the city. The door to one opens as we proceed passed. There is some chatter among the employees as they leave their meeting.

“Alex?” a familiar voice calls.

I know who it is before Alex and I turn around.

“Yes, Mr. Grant?”

I look over my shoulder and turn. I feel like I’m moving in slow motion.

Oh.

My.

God.

I would have never thought it possible, but Mason is even more gorgeous than he was six years ago when I left. His clean shaven, young face has been replaced with a barely noticeable five o’clock shadow. His hair is parted off to the side and combed back. It’s just long enough to leave a couple of strands loosely hanging over his forehead.

Mason’s body is muscular and defined under his custom tailored suit. He’s looking directly at me and I immediately think of the last time I saw him. He was kissing me. He left me open mouthed and wanting more. Now he’s my boss. Actually, he’s the boss of my boss. He’s staring back at me, taking pleasure in the way I’m looking at him.

“I noticed you were with someone new. I was hoping for an introduction, but it seems I already know who she is.”

“Oh, yes, Mr. Grant. This is Sam. I was just showing her around the office. It’s her first day,” Alex says, beaming. Seems she likes Mason’s look as well.

“Of course. I remember Samantha.” My name drips off his tongue, “she was one of our interns… how long ago?”

I don’t answer right away. I’m too busy getting lost in Mason’s eyes to realize he’s speaking to me. I stumble over my answer, “six.”

“Six?” he chuckles.

“Six years,” I add, trying to get back in control of my voice.

“Well, it’s nice to have you back with us, Samantha.”

“I’m happy to be back,” I reply sounding more like myself.

“I hope Kaitlyn takes good care of you. I’ll be sure to check back in on you. Good day, ladies.”

Mason turns and walks to catch up with the others.

Holy shit. I need to pull myself together. I’m an adult now. I haven’t seen Mason since I left, but he’s just another guy, right?

Besides, Kaitlyn already told me he hasn’t changed. He’s the same Wall Street player he was when I was an intern. He’s off limits. I make a note to remind myself of that again.

“Handsome, isn’t he?” Alex says with a smile. She obviously saw me looking and heard me fumbling over my words. “We keep things strictly professional here, but it’s nice to have the eye candy around…”

I laugh nervously. I had my taste of Mason Grant. He told me I’d be begging for more. I kept him in the back of my mind for years. I didn’t think much more about him since then - other than the occasional fantasy. Now I’m beginning to think coming back here was not the best idea. I guess having Mason off limits will make my time here easier. Besides, the office is so big now I should have no problem avoiding him… Right?

W
ell
, well, well. Samantha. I have never forgotten her. Fate works in mysterious ways. Samantha, the forbidden fruit, right back where she belongs - although she may not know that yet.

She was the one who got away, and I’ve always hoped she would make her way back to me. Now she’s back in New York. Fate delivered her right to my doorstep.

I can’t say it was completely fate - I may have helped a little bit. I planted the seed. I knew we would be looking for some new hires and replacements. I casually mentioned Samantha’s name to Kaitlyn, knowing she would love to have her working under her. I would love to have her under me as well, although my intentions were less business-focused.

No woman had ever really gotten under my skin the way Samantha did. I don’t know why or even how to explain it - she just makes me want to
know
her. Oh, I’m going to fuck her too, but that’s only part of it. She’s just…different. Maybe it’s best that she shut me down six years ago. I don’t think she’s the kind of girl that’s looking for a one night fling.

But maybe I can offer her something more…

I have to find a way to get her to give me a chance. One date. One night with me and I know she’ll come back for more. I just have to overcome the biggest obstacle of all - my father.

Garrison holds tight to his old school values and beliefs. He would never ‘allow’ me to date one of our employees. Even just fucking them is not an option. He thinks women are only after one thing - money.. But I know he’s wrong. If there’s one thing I’ve learned on my road to success, it’s to trust my instincts. Samantha could care less about what’s in my bank account - I truly believe that. She thinks I’m a player, of course… She wont want to give me a chance - not to risk her job, her future, or her morals. It’s going to be a challenge for sure, but I’m up for it. Things that come easily usually aren’t worth it in the end.

Watching pretty little Samantha beg for my cock would be worth it.

“
I
ordered some Thai
. I hope you still like it,” Kaitlyn says when I enter her office.

“Yup, still my favorite,” I answer. I take a seat on the small leather sofa across from Kait’s desk. She has the box of food laid out on the coffee table.

“How’s your first day so far?”

“Fine,” I reply, scooping some noodles onto my plate, “just getting to know the new layout and some of the others in the department.”

“Everyone is pretty easy going. I know you’ll fit in well. Have I mentioned how excited I am that you’re back?” Kaitlyn smiles.

“Only a few dozen times,” I laugh, “I still enjoy the complement though. It’s nice to be wanted.”

We chit chat about Kaitlyn’s married life. When I last worked for her, she was waiting on a proposal. Now, he and Jack are married and trying for a baby. Time flies. She fills me in on where some of the people I used to work with are and also about each of the newer employees I will be working with. I’m glad I have her on my side. It’s nice to have an ‘in’ with the boss.

“Mrs. Redding?” A voice comes over the intercom.

Kaitlyn rolls her eyes, “never a dull moment.” She crosses the room and picks up the phone. She looks at me while she replies, then hangs up.

“Seems your presence is requested by Mr. Grant,” she announces.

“Which one?” I ask nervously.

“Mason.” Another eye roll.

“Did I do something wrong?” I ask. I’m nervous. I don’t want to lose this job. I just started and I know I’m going to love it. I’m even more concerned it has nothing to do with work at all. He can’t remember that kiss, can he? He wouldn’t. I’m sure there have been hundreds more just like it - or better.

Either way, I don’t want to go to his office.

“I don’t think there’s anything you could have done on day one to upset the owner of a billion dollar business.”

“Let’s hope not.” I clean up my lunch from her table, “I’m going to head over there. Wish me luck.”

“You don’t need luck, Sam, he probably just wants to check out the new merchandise - make sure you still look hot enough to work here,” Kait laughs, “let me know how it goes.”

I give her a meek wave and leave the office. The corridors seem longer this time around as I make my way to Mason’s reception area.

“You must be Ms. Roberts,” another beautiful receptionist, Kim, says, “right this way.”

She leads me down a wide corridor. We stop in front of a pair of large frosted glass doors, “Mr. Grant is expecting you,” she explains, sliding one of the doors open.

My eyes widen at the sight of Mason’s office. I’m not sure if it’s even considered an office, it’s so big. The entire wall behind Mason’s desk is floor to ceiling windows. The view overlooking the city is breathtaking. Although sparsely furnished in very modern decor, it’s extremely tasteful and screams ‘power and money’.

In one corner there’s a glass conference table encircled in modern, white leather chairs. On the opposite side is a matching leather couch and glass coffee table. The wall next to it is covered in computer monitors - or maybe they’re televisions - I’m not sure. There’s a small kitchen and bar against the entrance wall.

I can’t believe this is just his office. It’s bigger than most of the apartments I’ve looked at. Give me a pillow and a blanket and I could live here.

“Let me know if you need anything, Mr. Grant,” Kim offers, announcing her departure.

Mason is seated behind his desk. The door is closed behind us. Suddenly the office feels like it’s the size of a shoe box. I feel like I can’t breathe. Why am I here, anyway?

“Have a seat, Samantha,” Mason offers. He motions to the chair in front of his desk.

I slowly walk over and take a seat. I feel his eyes on me, watching me move. I’m glad he’s choosing to be professional and stay in his seat. I don’t want to be any closer than we are.

“How’s your first day going so far?”

“So far, so good.”
Why am I here?

“Well, I know Kaitlyn is happy to have you on her team,” Mason starts. He leans back in his seat and folds his hands in his lap, “as am I.”

I shuffle nervously in my seat, folding and unfolding my hands.

“Thanks. I’m happy to be here,” I reply. Once again, my discomfort is noticeable and Mason is loving it. He must enjoy being in full control - especially when I’m so obviously uneasy.

“Are you wondering why I asked you to come here?”

“Yes.”

Mason sits back up and leans forward, “I just want to make sure you can feel comfortable here. When we last saw each other, we kissed. I left you hanging - probably not the most noble gesture.”

I look down. Even if I knew how to respond, I don’t want to say anything that will embarrass me any more than I am now. How is he always able to speak so openly?

“Samantha,” Mason says in a commanding, yet gentle tone, “you clearly can’t relax around me. We can’t have you feeling that way at work. It’s counterproductive. I know you’re capable of great things. I don’t want anything personal getting in your way.”

“Okay,” I reply. What else can I say? He’s right.

“Maybe what we should do is spend a little time together, get to know each other again. We used to joke around and have fun. I’m still the same guy I was back then, I just have a bigger office now.”

“So what exactly are you suggesting?” I ask, getting some of my nerve back.

“Let me take you out. Dinner, maybe?”

I look at Mason like he’s crazy, “let me get this straight. In order to make me feel more comfortable working for you, you want to take me on a date?” Is this guy for real? Once a player, always a player.

“Not technically a date. More of a meeting.”

“I’m pretty sure fraternizing in that manner with other employees is against company policy. This is my first day. I don’t want to lose my job.”

Mason stands and walks around to the front of his desk. He takes a seat on the edge and crosses his ankles, looking down at me.

“Listen, Samantha,”
I wish he would stop calling me that.
“I’m not just another employee. I’m not even just the boss’s son anymore. I’m a partner. I call the shots. A dinner meeting is nothing out of the ordinary.”

“Do I have a choice in the matter?” I ask with a business like tone.

“I would never force you to do anything you didn’t want to do.” Mason is replying my question, but I sense a hidden meaning in his answer.

“Okay. We can have dinner,” I concede. Maybe Mason is right. Maybe if we have some one on one time, it will be best - for me
and
my job. I know all about his view on women. I’m not looking to get involved with Mason. I’ll use this opportunity to make that very clear.

“Wise decision. You won’t regret it.” Mason stands back up and walks behind his desk, taking a seat once again. “I figured you would agree. I already cleared my schedule for Friday night and made a reservation for us.”

“Wow,” I say, surprised, “arrogant much? You must think every woman will do what you ask.”

“Not at all. It’s my job to know what people want before they want it, Samantha.”

I swear when Mason says my name this time, he lets each syllable linger just a little bit longer than it should. It could just be the way I’m hearing it. Either way, this decision may not be as wise as I thought.