The Kiss that Sparked it All

The boss’s heart clenched. Could it be that Nolan swung by because of that interview that’s been the talk of the town?

He shot a glance at Regina, his suspicions deepening.

No wonder he recognized Regina. That little troublemaker had gone and stirred the pot again! This content © Nôv/elDr(a)m/a.Org.

Regina glared at Nolan with all the intensity. She had told him time and time again that she had her own ways of digging up the truth. Why on earth did he have to show up at her newspaper office to stir the pot? Was he trying to throw a wrench in her works?

“Mr. Harris, your concern is noted, but unnecessary. This is an internal matter for New Blossom Press. Instead of making house calls, perhaps you should focus on your own affairs, ensuring these mishaps aren’t repeated,” she retorted.

The boss almost choked on his own breath on hearing her. Who did she think she was talking to?

Did she mistake Nolan for a coworker? The man was the CEO of the Harris Group, for heaven’s sake. Regina’s lack of tact was astounding.

“Cough, cough, cough-” the boss was clearing his throat.

“Boss, do you need a lozenge?” Regina asked.

“If you’re feeling under the weather, make sure to take it easy.” Even Nolan chimed in with concern, prompting the boss to wave them off.

“My apologies, Mr. Harris. Our rookie here is green behind the ears, not quite versed in the way we do things around here.

If she’s caused any inconvenience, please accept my apologies and say it upright. I’ll make sure Regina gets a talking-to, so she won’t interfere with your business again.”

Regina bristled with indignation, “What have I done now? Why is everything my fault?”

She was fuming. If Nolan weren’t there, she’d have had it out with the boss, no holds barred.

She couldn’t figure it out why everyone was against her.

Whether she worked her tail off or not, she always seemed to get the short end of the stick. What did she ever do to deserve this?

Nolan stayed silent, giving the boss’s earlier confidant a sharp glance. The message was clear, and the lackey quickly excused himself.

“Mr. Harris, whatever you need, just say the word. New Blossom Press will strive to meet your expectations.” Her boss added.

Regina and Nolan snorted together, while Regina’s disdain for his words were so palpable. The boss’s eyebrows knitted together, and he shot her a look that said, ‘Don’t get too cocky. We’ll settle this score later.’

“Ms. Tanner, word on the street is that you’re going rogue on some story about a developer.” Nolan said.

The boss quickly jumped to damage control, “Mr. Harris, where did you hear such a tall tale? The information isn’t reliable. Our paper hasn’t decided to run with the story. Rest assured, we wouldn’t

dream of publishing anything about the Harris Group without due process.”

Nolan twirled his watch. He wasn’t so impressed by the boss’s hurried defense.

“There’s no need to rush to your own defense. The Harris Group can withstand scrutiny. There’s an old saying I believe in: ‘To act within one’s competence’. Isn’t that right, Regina?”

“What are you getting at? You’re saying you don’t trust me? But if you’re so open and aboveboard, why come here and warn us off? Could it be that there’s something fishy going on with the tech industry?” Regina’s fists clenched tightly as she retorted. She had been set to dismiss Nolan from her suspicions, but his unexpected visit planted seeds of doubt.

“Ms. Tanner, let’s not sugarcoat things. You’ve already made up your mind that I’m involved in this affair.”