Continental Breakfast by Ella Dominguez Read Free Book Online Page A

CEO’s face.
    “Both.”
    “Do you really want me to tell you what you already know?”
    “Bella, what is it that you think happened in my office the other day?”
    “I’d rather not talk or think about it for that matter. It’s not my place to ask you about it, either. Your personal affairs are just that, personal. I am, after all, only the office help.”
    “That’s not true and you damned well know that. I’m sorry , Bella…” he starts to say as he reaches for my hand, but I can’t hear my name uttered from his perfect mouth or his apology for having another woman within earshot. His actions were cruel and thoughtless.
    I stand and grab my clutch.
    “No, I wouldn’t know that because you’ve never said as much. There’s no need for you to apologize because I have no right to try and put restrictions on your activities. I know my place, Mr. Pettifor and I know exactly where I stand with you.”
    I practically run out of the coffee shop and into a cab, and I immediately let the tears that I’ve been holding back surge out of me.
    The rest of my night is spent sulking in my apartment and browsing the want ads. Nothing but praises? I wonder what exactly he’s written about me. That I give good sex? I inwardly laugh at the thought of that being written and the look on any potential new boss’ face.
    I wander over to my balcony and look out. When I scan the dirty street, Mr. Pettifor’s driver is seen sitting out front. Confused by his presence, I get dressed and venture outside.
    I knock on his window and he rolls it down. “What are you doing here, Dante?”
    “Mr. Pettifor insisted I sit watch outside your building. He doesn’t trust your neighbors or your location,” he answers in his Italian accent.
    Well I’ll be damned. Is Mr. Pettifor jealous and concerned ? No, surely not, and it’s wishful thinking on my part.
    “This really isn’t necessary, Dante.  You can leave now,” I say in an attempt to dismiss him.
    “No, Ms. Darcy. I have strict instructions from Mr. Pettifor and you know how he feels about his wishes being disobeyed,” he replies with wide, exaggerated eyes.
    “Yes, I do. Very well then. Can I bring you something – a soda or a snack?”
    He smiles and nods his head appreciatively, “Yes, that would be nice. Thank you, Ms. Darcy.”
    I go back upstairs and make a sub sandwich for Dante and take it to him, along with a cherry cola and some reading material. He thanks me profusely and I go back inside, and call it a night.
    I wake later than usual and dress quickly, not wanting to be any later for work than I already am. Poor Dante looks a wreck and I apologize for him having wasted his time watching over me. When I arrive at the office, Mr. Pettifor and Amelie are nowhere to be seen. There’s a sticky note on the computer stating Mr. Pettifor  is taking Amelie to be fitted for some new clothes. My heart sinks. So it’s real. I’m really being replaced. Being cried out from the previous day, I sink into the office chair and busy myself with the menial chores left for me to do.
    Lunch time arrives and still, no Mr. Pettifor or Amelie. I call out for lunch so that I don’t miss any important calls for Mr. Pett ifor and eat in the office alone. Late in the afternoon, Amelie’s sweet childlike and light-hearted laughter can be heard coming up the hallway. When she enters the office, she looks spectacular and her face is glowing with happiness. I immediately feel guilty for my horrible jealousy and envy.
    “You look amazing, doll face,” I tell her.
    She does a twirl in the middle of the office, showing off her new frock and heels.
    “Mr. Pettifor really has the most fantastic sense of style!” she shrieks.
    “Yes, he does,” I nod.
    Mr. Pettifor comes in a few short moments later; carrying a bag of what I can only assume is more goodies for Amelie. He sees me and freezes in his spot, his face going pale.
    “I didn’t think you would really show up today,” he tells