Meant to Be by E. L. Todd Read Free Book Online

same.”
    “And how would I do that?” he barked. “Set her up on a blind date with the faith that she wouldn’t touch him?” He shook his head.
    “Well, what is Janice most upset about?”
    “I don’t know,” he said irritably.
    “Think, Ryan.”
    He sighed in frustration, running his fingers through his hair. “I guess she’s pissed I embarrassed her at work.”
    “Okay. Why don’t you start there?”
    “What do you mean?” he asked.
    “Make a new impression.”
    Ryan stared in the distance, his mind in a daze. I wasn’t sure what he was thinking, but the wheels were in motion. I hoped he would figure out how to resolve this fight with Janice. Because I didn’t like seeing him in this kind of pain. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.

7
    Ryan
    I stared at myself in the mirror. I was wearing an Armani suit with a Rolex—not my style. My hair was styled and I held myself with the stature I usually did. I admited I look like a million bucks in a suit, but a hoodie in jeans is what I always preferred.
    I took the day off from the shop so I could get this just right. I was nervous, feeling the blood pound in my ears. I wasn’t good at putting on a show. I wasn’t good at being the bigger man. Honestly, I wasn’t good at anything. But I had to get my girl back. She slept beside me every night but she wasn’t really there. We were so distant, living on different continents across the ocean. I missed her.
    I headed to her office then walked inside. A box of pastr ies from the pretentious baking shop was in my hands. It had lighter than air mandolins, and assorted fruity pastries. I also brought a galloon of freshly brewed coffee.
    When I reached the secretary’s desk, she eyed me. “Can I help you?”
    “I wanted to drop these off,” I said with a smile.
    She eyed the pastries with delight. “Ooh. What’s the occasion?”
    “I’m here to see my girlfriend, Janice Campbell. I thought I’d bring this along.”
    Her eyes flashed in recognition. She probably remembered me from my visit to the office or the work party. But this time, there wasn’t disapproval. “Well, that was thoughtful of you.”
    “I know everyone in the office works hard. She tells me everyday.” Being charismatic was exhausting.
    She smiled wider. “Aren’t you sweeter than key lime pie.”
    Am I? “Where should I put these?”
    “Come with me.” She walked with me until we reached the back room. I placed the box and coffee on the table and eyed the chairs and the refrigerator. The woman grabbed a roll out of the box and took a bite. “This is great.”
    “It’s from Alessandro’s.”
    Her eyes widened. “That place is classy.”
    “Nothing is too classy for my lady.”
    “Awe.” Her eyes softened. “You’re so sweet.”
    “I’m just in love.”
    “Awe. Now you’re sweeter.”
    I was racking up points. “I’m going to peek in and say hi to my lady.”
    “Go ahead.” She filled a cup of coffee then walked back to her desk.
    I walked across the room but didn’t enter Janice’s office. Instead, I walked down the hallway until I found Cal’s office. I saw his name on the door and knew I found the right place. I knocked.
    “Come in,” he said with a cheerful voice.
    I stepped inside then adjusted my tie.
    He studied me for a moment, trying to place me. “Ryan?”
    “Hey.” I approached his desk with an extended hand. “How’s it going?”
    He shook it, still eyeing me. “Great.” He examined my suit. “Armani. Nice.” He winked at me.
    Only a gay guy would figure that out with just a look. “Thank you, sir.”
    “Is there something I can do for you?”
    “Actually, yes. If you can spare the time.”
    “Of course. Anything for my girl, Janice. Sit down.”
    I took a seat in front of his desk. I cleared my throat. “I wanted to apologize for my recent behavior. I’m sure you picked up on the…tension.”
    He smirked. “I could tell I wasn’t your favorite person in the