SWEETHEART • H.S

•Seventeen•

I was back to work the following week and giving yet another presentation to Harry in front of all the men who despise me but appear to tolerate me in front of him.

Once I finished I could've sworn I heard a few scoffs which caused Harry to raise an eyebrow.

He was planning something and I could tell it would give me more drama.

I really don't need anymore on my plate right now.

"Lovely. Was this your idea Natalia?"

"Completely Mr. Styles"

"It's great. Please keep me updated on this. Unless of course anyone here thinks something should be changed?"

Harry looks up at each man in the room, including my boss and all he got in return was silence.

"Good. If that-"

"Actually I have something I need to say"

One of the oldest members of the board raised his hand slightly as he sat up causing the chair he was in to creak a little bit.

"And you are?"

"John Smithens. Why are you interested in this woman's ideas? What if any of us have some of our own and you're bowing down to... her.. only"

"Well then by all means, present something to me next meeting. Otherwise I'll just assume you're a jealous sexist fûck who can't handle a smart, powerful young woman of color. That would also make you a racist, don't you think?"

There were numerous gasps and dropped mouths as Mr. Smithens sat back with a look of shock.

My god that was hot.

"Well. If that's all, then I think that concludes the meeting"

Harry stood up and exit the office leaving the rest of us to blink for a few minutes before gathering our belongings and heading home for the day.

Not before my boss called me into his office however.

"Natalia, I'm just curious... what is your relationship with Mr. Styles?"

"Where is this coming from sir?"

"It feels as though you two are familiar with each other, even before he came for our first presentation"

"Why is that any of your business? Excuse me if I sound rude sir but my relationship with this man, if I had any, has nothing to do with how well I do my job. Don't my numbers show that?"

"Well yes. Even before Mr. Styles you've shown impressive work for this company... I guess this promotion was well overdue.. I just felt threatened when Mr. Styles basically commanded you for the job. I apologize if I have made you feel discriminated against in any way"

"Thank you sir. I really needed to hear that. Otherwise, I would have quit. I know my worth"

"Well, I'm glad we could clear things up. If I notice anyone still giving you trouble after today's meeting I will have a serious talk with them"

"I appreciate that sir"

"Good. Have a great rest of your day"

"You too sir"

With that I left his office walking a little taller as I head for the elevator.

By the time I exit I could see that delicious man.

Harry was waiting for me by his car and I couldn't help the smirk that spread across my mouth.

"Well if that wasn't the hottest fûcking thing I've ever witnessed in my entire life"