The Carrero Effect - Falling for the Boss (Billionaire CEO) novel Chapter 52

We’re finally home and I’m standing in my apartment. Sarah isn’t here, as usual, only this time it vexes me. There’s a crap load of male things infused throughout the apartment, and that rank smell of Marcus’s aftershave is over everything. I’m also aware that in the whole time I’ve been gone, I have only heard from her via text, asking about my mother briefly. I know I shouldn’t be upset. I barely touch base with her either, but I assumed I would have at least one call. Seeing as I haven’t been home in a week or more.

I march to my room and throw my suitcase down in agitation. I have two whole days at home for a change as Jake is shooting off to see his momma for her birthday, and for once, I’m not being dragged along for the occasion. I know Jake loves his mother and he wants some alone time with her; he has plans to take her on a shopping and spa day, her and her two sons.

My room is depressing, after the weeks of jumping from grand hotels and Jake’s apartment for quick changes and flight stop overs. I kind of miss it, the view from his comfy ivory tower and the city lights stretching below. My room’s claustrophobic and it doesn’t help that there’s a mountain of clothes piled on three surfaces, from my coming home to throw out the contents of one suitcase, and pack another before leaving again.

My cell beeps and I open the text, surprised to see Jake’s name already. We’ve barely left one another and I’m still wearing my dress from the dance. Red satin and floor length, all boobs, and shoulders on show.

What are you doing?

I guess he’s bored already, maybe like me he’s feeling listless and unsettled. I’ve been home less than an hour and already I’m itching to get out of these four walls. He’s supposed to be getting an early night for his trip home tomorrow, but I send a reply with a smile on my face.

Staring at a sea of pointless clothes and wondering how I’m going to wrestle Donna’s gold card away from those itchy fingers.

Can I come stare with you?

His reply makes me smile and that usual warmth grows in my chest.

My poor boss is really losing the ability to socialize with normal people, beyond me … What am I doing to him?

It’s still early, so I guess he isn’t ready for sleep. I know I’m not.

What’s the matter, Mr. Carrero, are you lonely in your ivory tower without me?

Maybe.

His reply is instant. I stifle a giggle; he’s impossible at times, like a child who needs my constant attention. Unable to satisfy his own boredom and I wonder where all his buddies and playthings are tonight? Surely, he can’t only have me to hang out with.

If you’re that bored, how can I deny you my sparkling company?

I have to admit, I miss him already, I’m so used to his constant presence that standing here alone feels alien.

Are you home alone?

His replies are swift, and I can’t help but grin.

Aren’t I always?

He knows about Sarah’s almost constant absence, yet he knows that Marcus hangs around, even when she isn’t here.

I’ll be there in 20 minutes.

I close my cell and look around with a critical eye.

Should I clear up? It’s only Jake.

I giggle at my own lack of care in this matter.

When did I start thinking that way, “it’s only Jake?” How many weeks ago would I have had a meltdown at the thought of Jake Carrero in my apartment?

There’s noise at the door and I’m surprised he’s here already, that’s been less than five minutes. I’m pretty sure he won’t have been hanging about outside waiting, he’s not that kind of creepy at all. It can’t be him, he’s not rude enough to just walk in, he has impeccable manners.

I wander out of my room and come face to face with the sleazy Marcus, all floppy curly brown hair, and sulky brown eyes, in that unshaven face, carrying a brown grocery bag.