“I forgot my books.” She held up two huge books like a shield. “I have to say, I’m shocked to see such immoral behavior.”
Huh?
“I’m sorry?” Bryce didn’t seem like he was apologizing. No, he sounded offended. “Commenting on my personal life is not acceptable.”
“I’ve stood by and held my tongue while hearing outlandish rumors, but to see it in person…” She didn’t seem to know what to say.
Bryce did.
“I think it’s best if I speak with the agency about sending someone else. We won’t be requiring your assistance next week.” He was calm and professional, but Oliver could feel the anger vibrating through him.
“I’ve never…” She shook her head, honestly flabbergasted. “Your behavior is—”
“My behavior is my business. For you to stand there and malign my partners is not appropriate.” Bryce gestured toward the door with his head. “I will be calling the staffing company shortly.”
She sniffed like some kind of old-fashioned matron and stormed out. “I never…” Her rant trailed off as she left the building.
Bryce sagged back against the chair. “I actually remembered that one’s name, even if she was a judgmental bat. Why do they keep sending me idiots or crazies?”
“Why are you hiring temps?” Troy asked the question before Oliver could get the words out.
“I loved my previous admin. She handled a lot more than most receptionists and was really helpful. Her husband was transferred because of his job and it all happened quickly. I haven’t found the right person to hire yet.” Bryce looked like hiring an assistant was on the same level as hiring someone for NASA. “I need someone who’s going to work well in the office and with the business, but not go off like that nut when something interesting pops up. If she thought this was bad, she should have been here the last time Grant came in talking about Carter.”
Words were bouncing around in Oliver’s head, but he wasn’t sure if it was right to say what he was thinking. Troy didn’t have the same reservations. “Why doesn’t Oliver help you out? It doesn’t have to be permanent if it doesn’t work. But at least you know he’s not going to freak out if you’re making out with one of your partners.”
Troy was teasing, but Bryce winced. “Sorry, it kind of came out.”
Oliver gave him a cocky smile. “I could have thought of sexier things to call me, but that will work.”
Bryce laughed, pulling Oliver close. “I can think ofloadsof interesting things when it comes to both of you. Not all of which need to be shared with assholes.” Bryce rubbed his hands up and down Oliver’s back and sides. “I’m sorry you had to see that. I knew she was off, but I specifically asked the temp agency for someone who would not have a problem with the LGBT community.”
Troy snorted. “They must have missed that part.”
“I’m not sure how.” Bryce shifted, pulling Oliver closer. “The owner is a member of the club. He’s not that active anymore because his partner is shy, but he’s been part of the scene for years. He’s going to have a heart attack when I tell him what happened.”
Oliver laughed. “I’m sorry. I know it’s mean, but I just don’t see how she can be so hypocritical.”
Bryce and Troy both looked at him like he was missing a few screws. “Didn’t you guys see what she was reading?”
Both men shook their heads, confused. Oliver couldn’t help but giggle. “Harry Potter and something about the collective works of D. H. Lawrence. A book about witches with a gay headmaster, and the other guy was absolutely scandalous when his books were first published. My kiss was nothing compared to the stuff in her books. It’s kind of ironic.”
Bryce barked out a laugh and Troy shook his head, a little smile peeking out. Oliver gave them both an impish smile. “I thought it was funny.”
Still smiling, Bryce gave Oliver another peck on the lips. “I’m still sorry you had to see that. I’ve always made sure that my staff is open-minded and accepting of my family’s lifestyle. Finding someone to take over the front office is harder than I thought.”
“I still think Oliver would be a good choice.” Troy gave them both a stern look.
Bryce looked at Oliver hesitantly. “I know it would be odd and weird at first, but would you mind? It’s probably a waste of your skills but—”
“I don’t think it would be a waste. I like working with clients and I’m good at dealing with the admin stuff. If your previous assistant did more than just answer the phones, then I should be able to help out just as much, if not more. I even have my insurance license for Virginia, if that helps.” Oliver wasn’t sure if the offer was wanted or if it would even be a good idea, but he wanted to help.
“I’d love the help, if you want to.” Bryce seemed as nervous as Oliver felt. “You’ll tell me if you hate it, though?”
“Yes. I’ll be honest about it. You can’t be any harder to deal with than my last boss.” Oliver grinned at Bryce’s expression.
“Your last boss wasn’t worried about pissing you off and having to sleep on the couch.” Bryce’s words sounded like he was teasing, but something in his eyes made Oliver think he was serious.
“No sleeping on the sofa. I can’t even imagine you demanding your assistant get you coffee. Much less saying something rude.”
