Kiss Lonely Goodbye Read Online Free PDF

smile. Nicole mentally readjusted her anti-lover-boy suit of armor.
    â€œI’d be happy to spend more time with Ms. Benoit,” he said.
    â€œWhat?” Nicole blinked in confusion. She stared at her father.
    â€œI said you two will need to work hand in hand over the next few months.” Stanton looked at her hard. “You okay?”
    â€œFine.” Nicole recovered and smiled. “I intend to have weekly meetings with the management staff and bimonthly company meetings with all employees.”
    â€œI think Mr. Summers means you and I meeting alone.” Marcus assumed a casual pose as he took a sip from his glass.
    Nicole thought he’d put emphasis on the word “alone,” yet when she looked at him he seemed all business. “Yes, well, of course.”
    â€œWith your guidance, I’m sure Summers Security can at least hold ground. I’m sure Nicole will follow your lead,” Stanton said.
    â€œOnly sensible approach she can take, considering,” Uncle Lionel put in.
    â€œI don’t know about providing security services. At least I didn’t until two weeks ago,” Nicole admitted.
    â€œI’m sure you’ll be up to speed soon enough.” Marcus nodded at her.
    â€œI intend to be up to speed by the end of the week,” Nicole said with a cool smile.
    â€œThat’s Summers blood talking. Meet the challenge.” Uncle Lionel winked at her.
    Nicole saw Marcus stiffen. “You’ll notice my uncle has his feet firmly planted in the nineteenth century,” she joked to avoid another tense moment.
    â€œHuh?” Uncle Lionel’s thick brows pulled together to give his broad face a confused expression.
    â€œEat, Lionel,” Stanton said with a sigh.
    â€œExcellent food. Hmmm.” Uncle Lionel promptly forgot the subject. He savored another mouthful of cheesecake.
    Once they finished eating, Uncle Lionel paid the bill, andthey went back to the office. Cat waved a thick wad of messages when they entered the foyer outside Nicole’s office.
    â€œMost important ones are on the top,” Cat said.
    â€œWonderful.” Nicole took them from her.
    â€œWelcome to the world of being in charge,” Uncle Lionel said.
    â€œMarcus, pleasure getting to know you better.” Stanton shook hands with him.
    â€œSame here,” Uncle Lionel rumbled. He glanced at the large round digital clock on the wall above Cat’s desk. “We better shake a leg, Stan.”
    â€œRight. We have a meeting in Lafayette this evening.” Stanton turned to Nicole. “Bye, baby. Marcus.”
    â€œGoodbye, sir.” Marcus nodded to both men.
    Nicole felt like a small child being left by her father on the first day of school. “Daddy, wait.”
    â€œCall me anytime. Though I’m sure with Marcus by your side you won’t need me as much.”
    â€œI intend to be right here for her, sir.” Marcus smiled at her father.
    â€œStan, we really have to leave. We’re cutting it close as it is.” Uncle Lionel waved goodbye and headed for the door.
    Stanton kissed Nicole on her cheek. “One benefit is I get to kiss the boss and she can’t fire me,” he teased.
    â€œThat is a nice perk.” Marcus glanced at Nicole. His smile widened when she blushed.
    â€œWhy do I feel like I’ve just been patted on the head like a puppy?” Nicole wisecracked.
    â€œMarcus, for you.” Cat held out the receiver of her phone.
    When he walked away, Stanton pulled Nicole aside. “He’s your best ally. Russell is sure to be a bit of a problem.”
    â€œA bit of a problem? That’s a bit of an understatement,” she retorted.
    â€œEven more reason to build a solid relationship with Marcus. He’s not only good at what he does, but he seems genuinely loyal to the company.”
    â€œYes, Daddy. I hear you loud and clear.” Nicole pushed down her natural inclination to rebel.