Sophia's POV.
“Mr Hayes, it's time to leave.”
He nodded his head and adjusted the collar of his white shirt, wearing the black blazer hanging at the back of his chair before heading out of the room towards the elevator with me trailing behind.
Ever since the incident outside the coffee shop almost a week ago, he's been professional with me. I had a sad thought that I might have bruised his ego too harshly. Even
Trent seemed to avoid me lately. I didn't want to date him but he would've made a good friend. I blamed Mr Hayes for ending our fast-rising friendship.
Today was a very important day for the Hayes Industries. Mr Hayes was meeting the son-in-law of the CEO of one of the most successful firms in the Industry, Mr Allerton.
The name sounded strangely familiar to me but I brushed this aside.
If we get the contract today, then the company will gain millions of dollars in profit.
Twenty minutes later, we were standing outside the crystal restaurant.
I was beginning to dread a ‘business’ meeting with my boss but at least this time, it wouldn't be just the two of us.
I adjusted my black skirt which had a small slit on the left side. It was a comfortable outfit with its just above knee length and an attached brown top which didn't show much of my cleavage.
I took a deep breath and followed after Mr Hayes. The waiter showed us the way to the booth where Mr Allerton was settled along with his P.A.
Mr Hayes took a seat across from Mr Allerton with me sliding beside him. I looked up to see Michael smirking at me. I stood up suddenly in shock.
No wonder that name sounded familiar!
All eyes looked up at me in confusion and I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment. “I— I need to use the lady's room,” I said rushing off.
I took a series of calming breaths because I was seriously panicking.
How did Michael manage to get the daughter of one of the most important CEOs in New York?!
He's doing this on purpose because he knows damn well I work at Hayes Industries!
I remembered the look on his face when Steph mentioned that I worked there on the day he drove us to the office party.
Taking a few more calming breaths and feeling slightly better, I headed for the booth where they were apparently all waiting for me.
“Sorry,” I mumbled to no one in particular as I sat down.
My eyes met the dark eyes of Michael who was not even bothered to hide the fact that he was openly checking me out which made me sick to my stomach.
I made no move to indicate that I knew him before this meeting. What did I ever see in a disgusting guy like this?
I completely ignored him and glanced over at his PA who was sitting beside him with a bored look on her face. I don't know why, but I felt sorry for her.
She was really pretty with black hair and gray eyes and a very fine, chiseled jawline. “Hello, Mr Allerton.” Mr Hayes proceeded in his usual business tone.
“Oh please, stop with the formalities Alex. Call me Michael.”
“I'm sure after this contract, there won't be a need for these formalities anymore. That is if you have a good deal for me.” He chuckled and smirked, looking at me.
“Of course. I'm sure no one can provide you with a better deal than what we have for you.” “What are you waiting for then? Bring it on.”
Mr Hayes began by explaining everything about the contract and how beneficial it would be for their company.
I sat there, typing away important details to note.
Almost an hour and a half later, the meeting was done and both men shook hands. There was a hint of relief and pride on Mr Hayes' face.
I noticed Michael's eyes once again raking me from top to bottom, almost like he was eye-raping me. I squirmed uncomfortably in my seat.
I didn't want anything more than to just walk away from here, away from him!
“We'll be taking our leave now.” I heard Mr Hayes speak from beside me with anger laced in his voice.
“not before introducing me to this fine, young lady,” Michael suggested.
“This is Sophia O'Brien, my secretary.” Mr. Hayes replied.
Michael brought his hand forward for a shake. He was enjoying his little game and as much as I didn't want to make contact with any part of his body, I had to shake hands with him because I didn't want to give any impression that we knew each other.
“Let's go.” Mr Hayes pulled my hand away from Michael's we were ready to leave when his voice stopped us.
“I expect the contract papers at my apartment, Alex.”
“will do.” Mr Hayes replied through gritted teeth.
“I want Ms O'Brien to handle it.”
What!? I asked without caution.
Mr Hayes stood in front of me, shielding me. “I don't think it's any of your concern as to who sends the papers Mr Allerton. It's the contract itself you have to worry about and it will surely get to you by tonight.”
“That's where you're wrong Alex. The contract isn't signed yet and if I don't get it as per my requirements, then I don't think there's going to be any deal.”
“Then cancel the fucking plan!”
My eyes widened at such a bold statement coming from Mr Hayes. I knew how much he needed this deal and how beneficial it was to the company.
I touched his arm to get his attention. He turned, looking at me and his eyes immediately softened.
It was clear from his tone that he Must've noticed Michael eyeing me earlier.
“It's okay. I'll go.” I accepted.
I know Michael was such a douche but I'm sure he wouldn't do anything to hurt me.
I didn't want him to end this contract because of me which is something I know he can do just out of pure spite.
“You're not going anywhere. You don't understand Sophia.”
“What's there to understand? I just need to deliver the contract papers to him once my office hours are done.”
He looked like he was going to protest some more but then he abruptly said “Fine.”
With that said, he pulled me out of the restaurant. Once we were inside the car, he turned to look at me with angry eyes.
“If anything and I mean, if anything should happen to you, it's all going to be on you.” I nodded my head nervously and quickly looked away.
Why was he getting angry over this? Could it be that he knows about my past relationship with Micheal?