Rugged Boss Read online

  Rugged Boss

  Bad Bosses, Book 2

  by Liz Fox

  Copyright © 2020 by Liz Fox

  All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

  Portions of this book are works of fiction. Any references to historical events, real people, or real places are used fictitiously. Other names, characters, places and events are products of the author's imagination, and any resemblances to actual events or places or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

  Edited by Cassidy Taylor

  Liz Fox

  Lizfoxauthor.com

  Table of Contents

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Epilogue

  Thank You

  Join Me!

  Also by Liz Fox

  About the Author

  Chapter 1

  Tess

  “What can I get you today?”

  That’s a good question. How about a new job? Or the cure to a cancerous brain tumor? Or my life back? I settle on my regular. “A medium chai latte, please.”

  The barista nods, writes on a paper cup, and tells me the price. I dig through my briefcase, looking for my wallet. Yes, briefcase. I have an interview in an hour, and I thought my stepfather’s classic brown leather briefcase looked more professional than my typical hobo purse. Which is why I moved everything vital into the new bag—several copies of my resume, my laptop and cell phone, three different lip glosses, a travel-sized lotion, and a stick of deodorant—but apparently not my wallet.

  Taking a deep breath, I close my eyes and gather my wits for a moment. It’s already been that kind of week and it’s only Tuesday.

  “I’m sorry, I seem to have misplaced my wallet.” I’m about to step out of line when a gravelly voice calls from behind me.

  “Julie, this one’s on me.” A large, tanned arm reaches around me, passing a black credit card to the barista, Julie.

  Her cheeks heat as she accepts the card. “Your regular today, sir?”

  “Yes, please.” He steps forward, guiding me to his side with his hand on my lower back. “And you’d think if you can remember my regular order that you’d also remember to call me by my name.”

  Julie giggles, swiping his card without looking up. “Yes, sir… I mean, Rand.” She passes back the card with a shy smile. “Your drink should be ready in a minute.”

  “We’ll be waiting for our drinks over here.”

  Her cheeks flush even deeper red, hearing his chastising tone, and she immediately steps away from the register to help make the drinks. “Of course. Thank you, sir.”

  Wait. What just happened? I mean, it’s not unheard of to get someone’s drink for them. But it’s never happened to me.

  “Um, thank you.”

  The hand at my back guides me to a small table in the corner of the coffee shop.

  “Go ahead and take a seat.” The stranger pulls the chair out for me. “I’ll be right back.”

  I sit, discombobulated, hands clutching my borrowed briefcase. A minute later, my good samaritan sits down across from me, placing our drinks and a muffin that’s been cut in half on the table. I stare at the drink in front of me. Blinking, I try—unsuccessfully—to stop the tears from escaping.

  I know it’s a bit ridiculous. Normally, I’m a confident woman, capable of far more than most people expect. But it’s been such a tough few weeks… well, months really. I’ve been holding myself together by the threads. Who knew that a simple act of kindness would cause me to fall apart?

  Grabbing a napkin, I dab at my cheeks. “Thank you so much. You didn’t have to do this.” I look up, trying to smile at the helpful stranger.

  It’s the first time I’m getting a good look at him, and… wow. This guy is yummy. No wonder the poor girl couldn’t stop blushing. What did she say his name was? Rand? Well, Rand has black hair, a trimmed beard, a strong jaw, and deep brown eyes. He’s wearing a simple maroon button down shirt over a white undershirt. The sleeves are rolled up, exposing powerful forearms that flex as they slide the plate with the muffin over to me.

  “I didn’t have to.” The deepness of his voice has my heart pumping in overdrive. “But I wanted to.”

  Is it too late to swoon?

  He continues speaking, giving me a chance to regain some equilibrium. “Are you okay, Tess? I promise, getting your drink was no big deal.”

  “Um, how did you know my name?” He taps my cup and smiles. Of course. I take a deep breath, centering myself. I’ve been doing a lot of that lately. “Thank you again. I’m just a little overwhelmed at the moment. It’s been a rough week.”

  His eyes are locked on me, like he can see all my secrets. I’ve never had someone give me this kind of undivided attention. Especially not a ridiculously attractive man. It’s a little uncomfortable, and a lot sexy.

  “I’m Rand. I work around here, but I’ve never seen you before. And believe me, I would have noticed.” He glances down. That’s when I realize I’ve been tearing at the napkin. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

  For some reason, Rand’s question tips me over the edge. Maybe it’s the genuine concern in his eyes. Whatever the cause, I find myself telling him everything.

  “I feel like such a goof. I switched bags and forgot my wallet. This isn’t even my briefcase.” I set the bag on the floor, shrugging. “It belongs to my stepdad. But I thought it’d help me get a job. And I need this job because I just quit school so I could move back in with my mom. My stepdad has stage-four cancer, and my mom can’t take care of him alone. So I’m applying to the only job I could find that was remotely related to my education, but I don’t quite meet their qualifications.”

  Taking a shuddering breath, I continue, “I have an interview in an hour and thought I’d get here early to do a little research on the company. But now I feel so frazzled I’m sure I’ll bomb the interview, and I just don’t know what’s going to happen.”

  Embarrassed by my verbal dump and unable to look at the man in front of me, I stare at the table. His hands grasp both of mine. They’re big, rough, and calloused—the hands of someone who works hard.

  “Tess, you got this.”

  “How do you know?” I can’t believe I’m getting comforted by a strange man in a coffee shop, but at this point I’ll take it where I can get it.

  “Not everyone would do what you’re doing. Putting your life on hold to help your family. It takes a special kind of strength.” He squeezes my hands, like he’s emphasizing his point.

  I don’t know what to say. Nodding, I try to pull my hands away. He allows it, but only because he needs one of them to tilt my chin up so I’m looking into his burning brown eyes.

  “I’ve been around a lot. I’ve known all different kinds of people. Some people give up. Some people keep fighting.” His thumb skims along my jaw, and I breath in a hint of freshly cut wood. “You’re a fighter.”

  Rand’s words ring with the truth and purity of a church bell through my chest. He’s right. I am a fighter. I’ve gotten this far, and I’ll keep going.

  He must see the new resolve in my eyes because he smiles, leans back, and takes a sip of his drink. “What job are you interviewing for, fighter?”

  “I have an interview with Moreau Construction. All I know is they build houses for the rich and famous. The job is for some kind of administrative assistant.”

  “And you don’t meet the qualifications?”

  “I’m two-th
irds done with my degree in architecture, and I know how to answer a phone. But they’re asking for three years of experience as an administrative assistant. I guess they liked my resume enough to give me an interview, but I’m still nervous. I know I can do the job, but you know how it is. Sometimes, even when you’re completely capable, if you don’t fit the mold then people don’t want you.”

  Rand frowns at me, a contemplative look in his eyes. “I know what you mean, fighter. But I think this time you might just get lucky.”

  Chapter 2

  Rand

  I glance at my watch. Tess starts her first day of work at my company in eleven minutes. My fingers tap against the top of my desk while I try to pretend I’m getting work done. I already know it’s a lost cause.

  Unable to sit any longer, I push to my feet and pace the length of my office. It’s one of those traditional ones with dark wood furniture and big leather chairs. Built-in bookshelves line one wall and windows line another. But I don’t see any of it.

  Ever since last Tuesday, I’ve been distracted by the memory of gorgeous blue-gray eyes and soft, honey-brown hair. I’d been standing in line, eyes locked on a delectable ass showcased by a tight black pencil skirt, fighting to contain my arousal. When the owner of those curves couldn’t find her wallet, I saw an opportunity too good to miss.

  After that first exchange, I was determined to make her mine. If I had anything to say about it, I’d wake up every morning with her sweet nectar on my lips, and go to bed every night with her thick thighs wrapped around my hips.

  As soon as Tess left the cafe for her interview, I raced back to my office to write an email to Human Resources with instructions to hire her. A few hours later, they messaged me back that she accepted the position and would start on Monday.

  That’s today. I spent the weekend thinking about Tess. Her innocence combined with a fierce drive to keep fighting. She fascinated me from the first moment, and with every minute in her company, my obsession only grew stronger.

  I’ve never been known for my patience. When I find something I want, I go after it full force. And I definitely want Tess. It’s against my nature to wait. Which is probably why I’m checking my watch every thirty seconds. I’m ready for her to be in my building and under my protection.

  “Rand, what’s your schedule like today?” My thoughts are interrupted by the VP of Design, Jesse. He’s been with me from the beginning. We grew up in the same neighborhood, both bullied but for different reasons. Me, because of my mother’s Mexican heritage, and Jesse for his sexual preferences. I’ve never been a fan of stereotyping and prejudices. He’s great at his job and his love life is none of my business. No one’s is. Well, except for Tess’. Now that I know her, everything about her is my business.

  “I have a meeting about the Oakwood Club addition this morning. And this afternoon, we need to go over the details of the Hawthorne project.”

  Jesse’s eyes light up with delight at the mention of the Oakwood Club. He’s a little dramatic, but he’s a good friend and business partner. “I love that club. It’s so exclusive and delicious. I heard they have a secret level just for the wealthiest members. Tell me you’re going to join when this project is done.”

  “You know I don’t have any interest in spending even more time with those pricks. All I want to do is build their fancy mansions and enjoy their money.”

  “You’re no fun.” Jesse rolls his eyes and pouts. “What about lunch today? Want to go to that new Asian fusion place around the corner?”

  “I already have plans for lunch.”

  “Fine. Fine. Fine. I see how it is.” Jesse spins with a hair flip, even though his curly brown hair is no more than two inches long. “I’ll see you at our meeting at two, then.” He struts out the door.

  Like it’s been all weekend, as soon as I don’t have something else to distract me, my mind goes straight to Tess. One good thing about Jesse’s interruption—he helped pass the time. I check my watch. It’s two minutes to nine.

  I stride toward the stairs, determination in every muscle. Right now, I have Tess working on the floor below mine. I won’t spend every day with an aching hard on because she’s constantly walking her sweet ass by my office. And I kind of like that she doesn’t know that I own the company. We’ll get to know each other as equals.

  A minute later, I walk down the hallway to Tess’ new office. Her door is open so I lean against the frame. She doesn’t notice me right away, too busy arranging the items on her desk. I take the time to appreciate the view. Her wavy, honey-brown hair falls loosely over her shoulders. I can’t see all her curves, but even her black shirt and red jacket can’t hide her ample breasts. Her lipstick matches the jacket. She looks amazing. I wonder what she’d look like with those plump lips wrapped around my—

  “Rand! I didn’t see you there!” Tess’ surprised voice interrupts my thoughts. “What are you doing here, anyway?”

  “I work here, too.”

  “What? I can’t believe you didn’t tell me.” Her lips curve into a bright smile. “I’m so glad I’ll know someone here. It’s my first day and I’m a bit nervous.”

  “Has someone been rude to you?” My voice comes out a bit sharper than I intended, but she doesn’t seem to notice.

  “No, everyone has been kind. My supervisor showed me around and then gave me a few minutes to get settled. It’s just such a new experience.”

  “You’ll do fine. Remember? You’re a fighter.” I straighten and wander closer to her desk. “So this is your office? Not bad.”

  “Right? This office is gorgeous, and it even has a window.”

  “What are your plans for lunch?” I’ve been patient. Enough waiting. Enough small talk. A little less conversation, a little more action.

  “I don’t have any plans, other than a yogurt and an apple I stashed in the break room.”

  “Let me take you out today.” It’s more of an order than a question. “To celebrate your first day of work.”

  Tess tilts her head to the side as she looks at me, a hopeful innocence in her blue-gray eyes. “I’d like that. Thank you, Rand.” She straightens in her seat, shoulders going back. “Now, I’d better get to work. I don’t want to get in trouble on my first day.”

  She won’t get into any trouble if I’m reading her right. She’s got too much integrity and an eagerness that’s rare in an employee. Still, I don’t want to exacerbate her nerves.

  “I’ll come get you at noon. Be ready for me, fighter.”

  Her gaze jerks up to meet mine, probably in response to the hint of possession in my tone. I can’t help it. She turns on all of my protective and dominating impulses. It’s a struggle to leave her there and return to my office. But I’ve got some important meetings. And at lunch, she’s mine.

  ◆◆◆

  At noon, I’m standing in front of her office. “Hey, fighter. Are you ready to go?”

  “Let me just log off and I’ll be right there.” She clicks her mouse a few times, stands and grabs her purse from the hook on the wall, and walks toward me.

  Together, we head down the hall toward the elevators. Along the way, my employees greet me. “Hi, Rand.” “How’s it going, Rand?” We keep it pretty casual, and first names are pretty standard.

  “You seem to be quite popular,” Tess teases. “I can see why. You’ve been so good to me, and I’m practically a stranger.”

  With my hand on her back, I guide her into the open elevator. The doors shut and it’s just the two of us in the enclosed space. It takes everything I have not to press those luscious curves to the wall and devour her mouth with mine.

  Trying to distract myself, I say the first thing that comes to mind, “There’s a new Asian fusion place around the corner. How does that sound?”

  “Sounds great!” Her enthusiasm is contagious, and I feel myself grinning as she saunters confidently out of the elevator into the lobby.

  A few minutes later, we’re seated across from each other. “This is famil
iar. It’s like deja vu, only this time, I actually have my wallet.”

  “And just like last time, you won’t need it.”

  One side of her mouth tilts up in a sassy grin. Confidence and happiness look good on her. Throughout the next forty-five minutes, I find myself getting addicted to her smiles and witty remarks. Each smile causes a throbbing heat in my groin. Each witty remark has me fighting a grin. I’m not known for my jovial personality, but Tess effortlessly brings it out in me. That, and a desire to mark her as mine.

  It’s no surprise that she’s intelligent. We talk about her dream of becoming an architect. It turns out in addition to being beautiful and capable, she's intelligent, too. She's been putting herself through college for the last few years, and is determined to get her degree.

  We banter back and forth between bites. I find myself relaxing into my seat, content to look at this gorgeous, earnest woman.

  Turns out I’m not the only one looking at her. Lunch is nearly over when Jesse walks up to the table, hand on his hip.

  “What’s this, Rand? I didn’t know your plans included a beautiful woman.” He turns to Tess. “My name is Jesse, Rand’s best friend.” His eyes cut to me expectantly.

  “This is Tess. She just started working at Moreau Construction.”

  Jesse catches the intention in my voice. I know his curiosity is burning, but he’ll leave it for now.

  “Well, it’s lovely to meet you Tess. I’m certain we’ll see more of each other.” His eyes are twinkling as he leans down and air kisses both of Tess’ cheeks. “Bye now, you two. Have fun!”

  “Does he work at Moreau Construction too?” Tess asks with an enormous smile. “He’s delightful.”

  “Yes, he does,” I grumble. “But don’t forget who you met first.”

  “You’re right.” She nods with all seriousness. “My supervisor has been great.”

  I want to grumble again, but it’s impossible when her eyes are lit from within. “Sassy fighter, aren’t you? Let’s get you back to work.”