More Than A Favor

Chapter 65

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“Ms. Hart, I’ve never dated anyone. My reputation’s spotless, unlike yours – with an ex–fiancé, that guy who pets your head, and this ‘brother of yours,” Ashton said deliberately, his eyes fixed on me.

Before I could snap back, he lowered his gaze. “So really, I should be worried. If people hear we spent the night together, they’ll think I’m not pure anymore.”

“Are you saying I corrupted your virtue?” I sputtered, fuming.

“Not at all. You were perfectly behaved – didn’t try anything inappropriate.” His tone made him sound like some Victorian maiden whose honor I’d threatened.

What a piece of work!

He was infuriating, but I couldn’t unleash my anger. I could only take it out on my bagel.

“Well, if Mr. Drake’s so concerned about his honor, maybe he should keep his distance,” I finally managed, finishing my breakfast.

“Can’t do that unless we quit working together.” He stood up, folding his napkin.

I was speechless.

When breakfast ended, Maya finished saying goodbye to her friend, promising to call next time she visited Hilcord.

The moment her friend’s car pulled away, Maya pounced. “What were you and Mr. Drake talking about? He was actually speaking in full sentences!”

Unbelievable. This girl had been supposedly catching up with her friend but was watching us the

whole time.

“Nothing important,” I said curtly, hoping to shut down her questions.

She didn’t buy it. I added, “Just work stuff. Might need longer hours soon.”

“What?” Maya’s smile vanished. “How heartless! Doesn’t he care about people at all?”

I stayed quiet as we headed to the park. Ashton hadn’t arrived yet.

When we parked, he pulled up on a bicycle.

“Elaine, does Mr. Drake rent a bike every day? Didn’t think guys still rode those anymore,” Maya said,

was surprised

took cabs or public transit. Never expected rental bikes.

Drake, stop with the bike. Ride with us – Elaine’s car has plenty of room,” Maya offered, speaking for

could object, Ashton looked at me.

I was floored.

his attitude all morning, I

Maya. “Maybe ask me

efficiency and safety here. He’s new in–town –

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never finish on

I

had

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hugged me, trying

her head. “Fine. You’re running

for it,”

with Mr. Drake today – I’ll handle things with Mr. Gray.” I needed space

got to Mr. Gray’s area

“What?”

Drake said take the day off.” My blood

going on? Why

to Ashton, demanding

per week is law. With our schedule, one day shouldn’t be an issue, right?” His calm response

to stay professional, I said, “True, but we’re on deadline. Can’t we postpone breaks

not machines – we need

had a point, but

breath.

As I turned to leave, he added, “Everyone needs to

did it. I spun around. “Mr. Drake,

not to laugh while Ashton stayed maddeningly calm. “Ms. Hart, without proper rest you can’t work effectively, like last

I cut him off, palms

it after I’d just warned him about mentioning

caved. “Fine.

let’s go!” I

stopped me, “I need

I asked, “What now? Need a massage on your day off?”

that. Just need help shopping,” he said