The Sheikh's Pregnant Employee (Almasi Sheikhs Book 3) by Leslie North

Author:Leslie North [North, Leslie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2017-10-01T18:30:00+00:00

10

Zahir twirled the stem of his wine glass back and forth under his fingers, allowing himself just one more glance at Layla. He knew he’d been staring at her throughout dinner, but it was impossible to look away. She’d shown up to work distant and distracted, which made him even more desperate to catch her eye and know that she was okay. Layla had a strange way of wearing her emotions on her sleeve. Or maybe he was simply the only one who could see them.

“I’d say we’ve done a fine job of mixing cultures and blending practices,” Imaad spoke up, breaking through Zahir’s thoughts. Imaad raised his wine glass, the rest of the table following suit. The group, which included all levels of executives, had been discussing overall business strategies, along with the benefits and challenges of the merger. Zahir was quick to point out Layla’s contributions when he could, though he swore she shrank a little each time he did.

The table dissolved into individual conversations, and Zahir took another sip of his wine as Layla stood, gesturing discreetly to Marian. The two hurried away, leaving Layla’s spot empty directly in front of him. Omar leaned toward him, gripping the back of his chair.

“Okay. Let me be plain.” He cleared his throat, his dark eyes darting over Zahir’s face. “Do you have a thing for your new hire?”

Zahir blinked a few times, struggling to find words. Was it so obvious?

“Or maybe you’re already sleeping together.” Omar lifted a brow.

“What are you talking about?” Zahir finally found his voice, and it came out more defensive than he liked.

“I know you. You have one thing written on your face.”

Zahir tugged at the collar of his shirt. There was something unnerving about being called out, even if it was by his brother. He’d thought this attraction was far more under wraps. “And what’s that?”

“You’re looking to fuck.”

Zahir’s laugh came out sharp and forced. “Please. This is just how I look normally. I can’t control it.” He shifted in his seat, dragging his thumb over the base of his wine glass. “Besides. It doesn’t matter what I want. I’m an engaged man now.”

Omar sat back in his seat, crossing his arms. “You gave father your answer?”

“No, I haven’t.” He sighed. “But does it matter? It’s as good as done.”

“You could say no.”

Zahir shook his head. “I can’t. I could never. You know this better than anyone.”

“You’ve sacrificed enough for the job, for the family. I’m sure you could—” Omar began.

“No.” Zahir straightened in his seat, the mere suggestion making his blood run hot. “Not after everything father has done for me. I owe him everything. It’s my obligation as the eldest. You don’t understand.”

Omar narrowed his eyes. “Father puts pressure on Immad and me too, you know. And I’ve managed to say no before.”

“That was different.” Of course Omar would bring up how he’d turned down arranged marriage offers after his first wife’s death.

Omar eyed him for a moment and then focused on something toward the back of the room.

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