Daddy’s Billionaire Boss

“See? That wasn’t so hard, was it?”

“You’re right,” I said, returning to the sofa. “A laptop for you is on its way. I’m going to need you to research everything you can on likability. Start with real psychology and well-established sources, then move into pop psych mumbo-jumbo if necessary.”

Emily’s sweet face grew wary. “What sort of project are you working on that needs to increase its likability?”

“I’ll require you to keep this completely confidential.” I slid her a folder with the standard non-disclosure agreement, which she skimmed quickly and signed.

“Of course. Absolutely.”

I knew it was completely unprofessional to pick up her hand again, but I couldn’t help it. I needed the connection between us.

“Emily, I take meetings and phone calls with dozens of people each week, and apparently I am beginning to lose business because people see me as cold and unapproachable.”

Good grief, she was so adorable when her nose crinkled like that. My hands twitched with the need to cup her face and kiss that little nose.

“You’re not so bad,” she grinned. “You just need to loosen up.”

Another thought formed in the back of my mind. “I’m glad you think so. On top of your research, I’ll require you to coach me personally.”

“Coach?”

“Yes. Apparently I am supposed to appear more personable.” It was difficult not to roll my eyes. “And warm.”

Her fingers squeezed mine, then she released my hand to trail her fingertips along my neck tie. “You could start with some color,” she said. “I’ve read a bit about color theory, and symbolism. I’ll look into that again.”

There was a cautious tap at the door. “Come in.”

Emily’s hand jerked back as Richard entered the room. He set the new laptop, charger cable, and accessories on the coffee table in front of us. “Will there be anything else, sir?”

“No, that’s all. Thank you very much, Richard.”

His eyes widened, then he nodded and disappeared, shutting the door behind him quickly.

“So that’s going to be my job?” Emily asked. “Making you more likable for your clients?”

“Precisely.”

She clapped her hands in front of her, causing her perky round breasts to bounce wildly right before my eyes. Sweet Jesus, if she only knew what she did to me. Was I going to be able to control myself enough to work with her?

“I swear I’ll do a good job, Mason,” she said softly. “I’ve been told I get a little rambunctious, but when it comes to facts, psychology research and human connections, I know I can do a great job for you.”

The alarm on my phone sounded. “I’m sorry, I have to pop into a meeting,” I said, finishing my coffee.

“Am I supposed to work here?” she asked, looking around the space.

“Yes,” I said, desperately trying to think of a good excuse. I did not want the women in this office to tell her I was ruthless and sterile. More importantly, I didn’t want the men to get cozy with her.

“Because this project is so personal and confidential, I would appreciate it if you could do your work in here. Is that all right?”

“Absolutely.”

It was a great relief that she seemed pleased that we would be in such close quarters. Well, at least in the same room. The couch and coffee table was a good fifteen feet away from my actual desk. Later on, I’d get her set up with her own desk, if she preferred that.

“Have a good meeting,” she said brightly, settling onto the couch and opening her new laptop.

Grabbing my phone and a folder from my desk, I paused at the door. “Text me if you need anything at all,” I said.

Emily nodded, while tucking her hair behind her ears. “Sure. Thanks so much for this job, Mason.”