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 too.

or public transit. Never

Elaine’s car has plenty of room,” Maya offered, speaking for me

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

I was floored.

his attitude all morning, I

ask me before

tone. “I’m thinking efficiency and safety here. He’s new in–town – biking’s dangerous.

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we’ll never finish

I

I had no comeback.

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hugged me, trying to smooth things

tapping her head. “Fine. You’re

energy for it,” Maya chirped, bouncy as

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

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

“What?”

Drake said take the day off.” My blood

on? Why are

stormed over to Ashton, demanding answers.

day shouldn’t be an

to stay professional, I said, “True, but we’re on deadline. Can’t we postpone breaks until after? I’ll pay

mine. “It’s not about money. We’re not machines – we need regular rest.

had a point, but our situation

breath. “Is today

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

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

to laugh while Ashton stayed maddeningly calm. “Ms. Hart,

I cut him

jerk was really pushing it after I’d

caved. “Fine. We’ll all take a break.”

let’s go!” I called.

Hart,” Ashton stopped me, “I need your help

boil over. Through gritted teeth, I asked, “What now?

that. Just need help shopping,” he said