King of Anything

09

I find one of the best graphic designers we have. I bring him into the conference room, where they're waiting for me.

His eyes latched onto me as soon as I walked in. I wonder what he wants from me this time?

"This is Mariko. She's the best of the best I'll out her in your hands, Mr. And Mrs. Rydel."

The woman beams, putting her hand on his shoulder. He shrugs her off.

"May I speak with you, Ms. Erin? Alone?"

I sigh. "Actually—"

"We'll give you the room," Mariko interjects, taking the woman with her.

Damn Mariko. He stares at me, not moving. Finally, he puts on foot in front of the other, until we're close, not too close, but close enough that it's unprofessional.

I don't respond.

"You keep laboring under the pretense that you don't know me. But we both know that isn't true, little girl."

I regard him coldly. "Please, back up Mr. Rydel."

"It's Scar. You know that. I don't imagine after all you've done for me," He cups my chin, "That you've forgotten so easily. I was your everything. You gave me everything."

I c**k my head left. "You seem to be mistaken. I've never met you. And you've never met me, because that doesn't even sound like something I would do."

His lips unfurl into a smirk. "Is that so? Is that about Merida? You know no one compares to you, Marueen. Just say the word, and she's gone."

"What word do I say for you to be gone?"

He grits his teeth. "I made a mistake, three years ago. I was trying to protect you. Just talk to me. Please," He purrs.

That purred please. I always loved it.

"Excuse me," I push him back with force. "I have to go, Mr. Rydel."

He watches me walk away. I make sure to put an extra swing in my hips. He probably doesn't care. But just in case, I'll show him what he's lost while I pretend I've never met him.

He deserves it, if nothing else.

"Marueen, little one. I know you're upset with me, but I'll make it up to you."

I would say that's impossible. But I don't know what the hell he's talking about.

He's still as manipulating, and alluring as he was three years ago. But I'm not as weak. I won't fall back into that.

He enwyhes me back toward him.

"Marueen, you know a piece of you will always belong to me. You can't give someone all of you, and take it all back. It's not possible."

"You can't give what you gave me, Marueen, and be whole again. There's a piece of you," He reaches for me, touching my chest. "It belongs to me. You know that."

He may be right. "Sir, whatever belongs to you, is yours. But I'm not. Have a good day."