chapter 2

"Of course, sir."

I knelt down to pick up the shards of glass from the floor, using a napkin, with my heart hammering against my chest. As soon as I was done, I stumbled over an apology, and Ander placed a hand on my elbow and tugged me aside. Once we were through the double doors of the kitchen, he withdrew his hand and folded his arms over his chest.

"We don't make mistakes like this at La Mesa."

"I'm really sorry, Mr. Ander. I-"

Ander held up a hand, and his dark eyes narrowed. "I don't want to hear whatever excuses you're going to give me. Don't let it happen again."

I swallowed. "Of course not, sir."

"You won't be getting paid for today, of course. The damages will need to be paid for," Ander continued, his eyes moving over me. "You can't coast by on your good looks, Rachael."

"I-"

"You're a part-time employee," Ander interrupted, his eyes tightening further. "Which means you're expendable. Don't forget that. Clean yourself up."

With one final withering look, he spun on his heels