Kiss Lonely Goodbye Read Online Free PDF Page A

postponed the meeting with Federated Food Stores?”
    â€œYou must know I did or you wouldn’t be in my office, Russ.” Nicole sat back in her chair and stared at him.
    â€œI’m handling that account. You’ve probably jeopardized a very lucrative contract.” Russell took a few steps closer and folded his arms across his chest. “You don’t know much about this field. I think you should let me handle things for a while.”
    â€œReally?” Nicole spoke in an even tone.
    â€œI’m going to help you out. We can meet once or twice a week and I’ll keep you informed of what’s going on. In fact, I can even have Cat e-mail reports to you if you don’t want to come into the office. I know you didn’t want this place dumped on you.”
    â€œYou’d do that for me?” Nicole said with a wide-eyed expression. “I don’t know what to say.”
    Russell shrugged and spread his arms. “It makes sense. I can run the business for the next year.”
    â€œInteresting proposition. You’d be the boss, but as a service to unburden me,” Nicole added quickly.
    â€œExactly.” Russell smiled at her. He strolled over to the coffeepot nearby and poured himself a cup. “You want to get back to your, er, career.”
    â€œI appreciate the offer.” Nicole rocked the leather chair gently as she gazed at him.
    Russell looked around the office as though it were his already. “No problem. We’re family.”
    She picked up her pen and started to write. “But no thanks.I rescheduled the meeting with Federated Food Stores for next Wednesday. That way I’ll have more time to look over their needs assessment.”
    â€œI’ll pick up the pieces when you’re tired of playing boss.” He strode out and shut the door with a solid bump.
    Nicole’s father and Uncle Lionel came in through the side door. Stanton sighed. “You look odd sitting at Uncle Hosea’s desk, Nikki.”
    â€œReady for lunch? I sure am!” Uncle Lionel patted his stomach.
    â€œReady as I’ll ever be. I’ll tell you both one thing, Marcus Reed is due for an attitude adjustment. He’s subtly undermining my authority.” Nicole took her Fendi handbag from the desk drawer.
    â€œFrom what I could see Marcus has been nothing but helpful.” Stanton looked at his brother.
    Uncle Lionel shrugged. “It’s tough having a woman in charge, especially when she doesn’t know beans. Sorry, Nikki, but that’s the truth.”
    â€œHe’ll have to get over himself.” Nicole went to the door when the two men stood to let her go first.
    â€œNow, Nicole Marie, don’t start anything. You need him.” Stanton shook a finger at her.
    â€œSince I had this place dumped on me I intend to be in charge, starting with this lunch. I’m in charge, so get used to it.” Nicole lifted her nose in the air when she spotted Marcus waiting by Cat’s desk.
    Her father and uncle exchanged a glance. “Lord help us!” they said in unison.

three
    L unch went better than Nicole expected. By the time they’d ordered coffee and dessert, she knew more about Marcus. Nicole tried not to let her interest show as Marcus talked more about himself. He stayed away from his personal life and concentrated more on his work history. She wondered just who were the women in his life. Looking at him, Nicole doubted he’d lived the life of a monk. His handsome face and fine body would draw women like crazy, she mused. He’d sure caught her eye at the funeral. In fact, Marcus Reed seemed capable of stirring up female hormones everywhere he went. At least two women in the restaurant besides the waitress had practically done cartwheels to get his attention. Mr. Wonder Charm must be waiting for her to roll over like a little poodle. As if sensing the defensive move, Marcus looked at her and turned on a dazzling