Page 18 of Seduced By a Billionaire

“I find it hard to believe you’d be intimidated by anyone. Come on just think about it. Everyone can use a change, think of this as an adventure. You’re young, don’t you have even the tiniest inkling to try something new?”

“Not really.”

“What could I throw in to entice you?”

“Kyle quit pressuring her. She said no. You can’t buy everything or everyone. She is not for sale. I can certainly come around more and help out,” the blonde said.

Stinging from her comment, which was a little too close for his own comfort and way too much like his father, he bitingly said, “I’m sure your money marketing skills would be invaluable as a home health nurse. Forget it Charlene.”

“No need to be ungrateful and rude about it,” she said huffily.

Ella jumped in before the conversation could become more heated, “I’m flattered. Honestly. The answer, which I’m sure you aren’t accustomed to hearing, is still no.”

Kyle’s eyebrows furrowed and his lips tightened with displeasure at being rebuffed. His scowl might be intimidating to some and most likely useful in court, but in Ella’s opinion, it only made his entitlement more glaring and brought out her own stubbornness.

Her fists balled up and she took a deep calming breath before speaking, “I wish you luck and continued healing. I am glad you have that level of confidence in me and that you think so highly of the care you received here, really I am.”

“You might consider thinking outside of the box. I’m sorry if you find the idea of working for me so distasteful.”

“No, I’m not saying that.”

He could see her body soften, signaling to him an opportunity to make his case. “Look Ella, you’re by far the most competent nurse in this unit. I wish you’d at least agree to think about my proposition for a day or two, would you do that for me?” He said his voice low and persuasive.

“I just can’t right now. Please don’t take this personally. I’m sure you’ll find someone you’re just as comfortable with,” she said firmly.

Kyle was pissed that she wouldn’t even consider his offer. Most people would jump at the chance for the freedom this job would afford, not to mention flexible hours and luxurious accommodations. Money was no object. If he thought it would make a difference, he would have offered her five times her current salary.Damn her.

“Listen I’m going to take my lunch to the lounge area and eat with the staff. If I don’t see you before you go, take care. It’s been great getting to know you and please give my best to Faye. I love her.”

“You’d get to hang out with her more if you’d take me up on my offer…just saying.”

Charlene jumped up from her chair as if trying to push Ella’s exit along.

“Goodbye, thanks for taking such good care of my man.”

Kyle rolled his eyes behind her back and Ella had to stifle a grin.

“See you.”

“Bye Ella.”

* * *

Thank God Deb was coming over for dinner tonight. She felt desperate for someone to talk to about her attraction to Kyle. Since Deb was also a nurse, she’d get the conflict of interest more than most. Ella had already decided on the menu and selected a wine to compliment the meal. The timing couldn’t have been better. She enjoyed cooking when she had the time as long as it wasn’t cooking for one. This was a welcome distraction. Girls night couldn’t get here quick enough.

* * *

Ella’s hands were messy from chopping onions when she heard Deb’s knock at the door, “Come on in its open.”

“I brought dessert. Chocolate filled tarts from Clarion Bakery. Is there anything I can do to help?” Deb asked, as she placed the pastries in the fridge.

“Open the wine and pour us a glass,” Ella said. “Then you can pull up a stool and talk to me while I chop garlic.”

Deb stood on her tip toes to reach for two wine goblets then twisted off the cap of the amber liquid, pouring generous portions into each glass. Taking her first sip she sighed rolling her eyes heavenwards, “Bliss.”

“Totally. Here’s to bliss,” Ella said raising her glass for a toast.

“What was so urgent and secretive that you couldn’t tell me at work?” Deb asked.

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