No Strings Attached

Chapter Two

"The in-betweens can be handled by your employees. But I want all the decisions and communication to be between us. That is what I require from you. I need to be able to build trust in you. How can I do that when you're in New York and having your employees contact Sasha with information regarding me?"

"Mr. Martinelli, I can assure you that—"

"I chose you, Ms. Bardot. You proved your worth back there in my conference room today. You called me out and sold me on your ability to do your job. The only relationship I have witnessed from NWPR has been from you, and that is how I'd prefer to keep it."

What the hell is happening? I'm sure I'm staring at him like he's insane.

Because he is. He is if he thinks I have the time for this.

He shrugs nonchalantly, thrusting his hands into his pockets. "If you cannot do this, then I understand. But if you'd like me as a client, those are my terms."

I stare at him, unwaveringly still.

"I want us to be a team," he says, stepping closer to me suddenly.

I refuse to be intimidated by his closeness. By the delicious scent of him or the deep abyss of his eyes, so dark it's like staring into space. I am a goddamn professional.

I back up enough to make it noticeable. "Sign the contract then, Mr. Martinelli. Send it directly to my email. Your assistant has my contact information. Of course, I will need you to be candid with me about your life. No surprises. I need to know when you're planning on stepping out with models, where you're going. I will need your schedules as soon as possible, so I can begin to prepare for next week's show."

He nods. "Of course, this isn't my first rodeo."

I nod as well, realizing as I turn for the steps how stiff I've become. "All right then."

We both remain silent as we weave our way back through the endless hallways toward the lobby. I wonder why he's still following me, but don't speak out on it. When I reach the front desk, I turn, extending my hand to him with a curt smile.

"It was a pleasure to meet you. I look forward to working together."

He takes my hand, smiling softly. "Yes, likewise, Ms. Bardot."

Sasha smiles, approaching with a clipboard.

"Are they ready?" At her nod, he holds up a hand. "Give me a minute."

As she walks away, he turns to me. "I will send you the signed contract tonight after I have my lawyer look at it."

"Of course."

"How long are you here? The weekend?"

"I leave Sunday evening."

"I'd like to meet tomorrow if we could."

I nearly laugh in shock. "Why? Where?"

"To get you caught up to date with my affairs, current plans. It would be good to do this in person rather than wait until you're back in New York."

None of this is normal. I feel my face flushing. "Okay, um, where do you want this meeting?"

"Lunch. I can send you the details."

"All right."

He smiles, pursing his lips in amusement as he turns. "Tomorrow then, Scarlett."

***

"He was completely unpredictable. I feel like I've run a marathon trying to keep up with him," I complain, slipping on my pajamas. On speakerphone, Rebecca snickers to me on the other line.