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,

I was surprised

assumed he took cabs or public transit. Never expected rental bikes.

us – Elaine’s car has plenty of room,” Maya

I could object, Ashton looked at me. “That’s

I was floored.

all morning, I was beyond done.

“Maybe ask me

safety

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happens, we’ll never finish

I

I had

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first next time, promise!” Maya hugged me, trying to

her head. “Fine. You’re running all errands

I’ve got the energy for

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

area when Maya called. “Elaine, we’re done

“What?”

said take the day off.” My

on? Why are we

over to Ashton,

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

I said, “True, but we’re on deadline. Can’t we postpone

about money. We’re not machines – we

a point, but our situation

took a deep breath. “Is today absolutely necessary?”

I turned to leave, he added, “Everyone

I spun around. “Mr. Drake, you rest. Don’t worry

to laugh while Ashton stayed maddeningly calm. “Ms. Hart, without proper rest you

him

I’d just warned him

gaze, I finally caved.

let’s go!” I called.

Hart,” Ashton stopped me, “I need

over. Through gritted teeth, I asked, “What now? Need a massage on

like that. Just need help