Chapter 21

21

M alorie

Quite frankly, Kyle's words were going in one ear and out of the other. It didn't matter how hard I tried to pay attention, I couldn't. As he gave me a tour, I couldn't help but replay Neko's reaction to me in my mind. It was clear he was surprised to see me, and it was amusing—until the lack of his presence returned me to the emptiness I'd been feeling without him. Now, I was on autopilot going around the building smiling and half listening as people greeted me, thinking about how grown and sexy Neko looked.

His was wider and more muscular. I could tell he had more tattoos because they covered his neck. He was sporting a low fade now and a short beard. I missed touching and kissing that milk chocolate brown skin, and those juicy lips and platinum grill… God. I'd give anything to feel his lips on my skin.

When I originally came up with the plan to come home and get the guy, I knew I'd have to be strategic. I didn't want to include Malik because I wasn't sure how he'd feel about it. This phase in my life was about me and what I wanted… and I wanted Neko. I'd chosen what was best for my brother and their friendship, and though I didn't regret it, I also wasn't satisfied. This time around, I was going to choose what was best for me, and I honestly believed that was Neko.

I'd learned about his and Elias's business together through his parents. They were so proud of their boys. Elias coming home had been like a miracle to them, and I was happy his presence led to Neko being able to do what he loved. At first, I planned to work somewhere else and randomly show up at his parent's house when I knew they were having family dinner. But during my job search, I noticed an art firm named N.E. Art was looking for a new accountant. I felt it couldn't have been a coincidence that there was more than one art firm in the city, but I did my research anyway and was happy to see my man's face on their website.

If I got the job, my plan was to wear Neko down with my presence until he felt comfortable pursuing something romantic with me. Because the truth was, I didn't know if he would immediately want me. There was no doubt in my mind that he would still love me, but four years was a long time to learn how to live without someone. Plus, the last time we were together, I made it clear we couldn't actually be together. On the off chance our romantic reunion wasn't a quick one, I knew us working together was a sure way to stay on his radar.

"And this is the floor you'll be working on," Kyle said as we stepped off the elevator.

Unlike a lot of corporate offices in Rose Valley Hills, this one was not mostly glass. That made sense because all of the walls were covered with art and there were sculptures everywhere. I was in awe of the beauty surrounding me. Neko had planted a seed of love for art in my heart, and I nurtured it and allowed it to bloom while we were apart. It was how I felt connected to him. I didn't just invest in art for my home; it was on my body now too.

"This is Parker," Kyle said. "She's this floor's assistant. Her main priority is Neko, but she helps everyone else on this floor when needed. There's a receptionist that handles calls and deliveries and a planner that takes care of everything else. Both ladies are out for lunch, and you'll probably meet them Monday."

"Hi. It's nice to meet you," Parker said.

A group of men stepped off the elevator as Neko exited what I assumed was his office.

"I was hoping we'd catch you," the most attractive of the trio said, extending his hand in my direction. "I'm Trent, head of accounting."

"Hi. Malorie."

"It's nice to meet you, beautiful. This is Wynton and Andrew, the other two accountants. There's an accountant on every floor, and apparently this is yours."

"I'm on floor three with Elias," Wynton said.

"And I'm on floor two," Andrew said.

"Trent is on the top floor, five, with the other department heads."

"Okay, good to know." I wondered why Elias and Neko weren't on floor five but decided against asking. I was honestly just glad he and I were going to be on the same floor.

"You'll meet with the accounting team weekly as well as Neko." I rocked on my heels at Trent's announcement, biting back a smile. "Have you met the bosses yet?" Trent shifted slightly to face Neko who'd been staring at me the whole time. "Mr. P, this is—"

"I know Malorie." His tone was clipped, and brows scrunched. "And I heard you call her beautiful. She's off limits. Now get back to work."

Without waiting for them to respond, Neko turned and headed back to his office. My head hung briefly as I fought my smile. Was he so aggressive because he wanted us to have a professional setting… or because he was feeling possessive of me?

"Oof," Parker whispered as Neko slammed his office door. "Someone's in a mood."

"He's not usually like that," Trent assured me with a warm smile.

"I get the feeling she knows exactly how he is," Kyle replied with a grin.

"What does that mean?" Parker asked, crossing her arms as curiosity covered her face.

"Am I the center of gossip on my first day?" I teased.

"Yes, and be glad we're doing it in your face," Parker replied, and we all laughed.

Get the guy mission aside, maybe I was going to like it here.