Moonlighting

(A/N—Please note that this book is slow-burning, but please don't let that put you off. It will be worth it.)

Everly

I eagerly gather my things, ready to leave the office. My workday has ended, and I don’t have a lot of time before my second job. I cannot afford to squander any time. Right as I’m turning to walk away, something stops me.

“Come here, Everly.”

I can’t help but roll my eyes when I hear my boss’s voice. With a forced smile, I take a deep breath and make my way to his office. I despise him. He’s not a fan of mine, but I’m unconcerned. He won’t fire me because he knows how good I am at the job, and I won’t quit because I cannot manage financially. It’s not the worst job I’ve had. I enjoy everything about it, except for him.

“Yes, Mr Maddox?” I ask sweetly.

I am far from sweet, but I don’t want to clash with him tonight. I’m not in the mood.

Glaring at me, he crosses his arms over his chest. “Did I permit you to leave?”

“I am leaving. I am not obligated to stay any longer. My work hours are done.”

He despises it when I stand up to him because nobody ever does. His position as my boss doesn’t stop me from standing my ground. I refuse to be treated like a doormat. If others confronted him, he might not be so arrogant and cruel.

His face fills with irritation as he rises from his seat, pressing his hands firmly against the desk. He overreacts and makes a big deal out of things. “If I need you to stay, you need to do as I tell you.”

My jaw clenches while I scoff. He has a unique talent for getting on my nerves like no one else. He knows how to push my buttons, but I do the same to him.

“No, I don’t, because my shift has ended. I don’t need to listen to you. I have better things to do, whatever it is, do it yourself or it can wait until tomorrow.”

His eyes flicker with anger. He is trying hard not to yell at me. He despises it when I tell him no. The man thinks he is some God who everyone should worship and listen to.

“Do you want me to fire you?” he hisses.

My head falls back as I burst into laughter. He has warned me with the same threat over and over. “I dare you to try. It wouldn’t stick. Now, if you excuse me, it is time for me to leave. Goodnight, Mr Maddox.”

I storm off, not allowing him the opportunity to respond. He calls after me, but I ignore him. He can lecture me tomorrow. I sigh and head towards the car. I take a moment to sit, knowing it’s my only one tonight. My second job will have me working until about one and then I am back up at six to head back to the office. I eagerly await Sunday, a much-needed day off after two long months. I am drained, but a girl has to do what a girl has to do. My debt won’t pay itself off. It is not all my debt, but that is a story for another day.

I reluctantly start my car and head for home. My apartment isn’t too far away. I only have time to grab a quick shower and change before leaving again. Tonight won’t be too terrible as we’ll have dinner and enjoy expensive champagne. Things could be worse. I have set out my outfit for tonight.