Page 31 of Seduced By a Billionaire

“Hmm delicious, it has a hint of lime zest that balances well with the fruitiness,” Ella said appreciatively.

“I agree, I see you have a discerning palate.”

“I’m a certified wino."

“Help yourself. I have a whole wine cellar at your disposal.”

“Stop! I’m feeling overwhelmed as it is.” She shrugged her shoulders and said, “I just can’t wrap my mind around living like this. I guess you grew up this way so its normal for you.”

“Yes, but it means nothing.”

“Easy to say when you have it all.”

“I suppose you’re right. I can’t help where I came from. I hardly got to choose my parents.”

“Luck of the draw.”

“Some might call it luck, and some might call it a curse.”

“How so?” Ella had glimpsed a haunted look cross his face before it was quickly veiled, leaving her to wonder if she’d imagined it.

“It can be lonely. For instance, does one like me for who I am or for what I can do for them? Can they see beyond my wealth? Because power is an illusion anyway and money is really paper and commodities. It’s strange because it really doesn’t exist except in our social construct.”

“And yet here we are, drinking fine wine and about to consume a meal prepared by your personal chef.”

“I’m not going to apologize for my good fortune.”

Without thinking, Ella reached for his hand and clasped it, “I don’t expect you to, I didn’t mean that to sound the way it came off, all judgy. I know you come from a long line of philanthropists.”

“Don’t get me wrong, I like my toys and I enjoy the finer things in life, but to me they have no meaning beyond their creature comforts. As the saying goes, you can’t buy love or happiness and I’m certainly proof of that.”

“You can’t buy happiness, but it sure helps.”

“And you? Are you able to see beyond the billionaire trappings?”

“You know you can’t have it both ways. Buying expensive flowers, perfume, trying to buyme, then complaining that people only want what they can get from you.”

“Touché. But was I wrong about you?”

“In what way?”

“I thought you were different. I didn’t take you for being materialistic.”

“I’m not.”

“How can you say that when you demanded such a high price for your services? I must admit that I was disappointed. I’m usually a pretty good judge of character.”

“Excuse me, but what did you expect me to do? You manipulated and coerced me into accepting a job I didn’t want. Of course, you’re going to pay.” She was a little taken aback by the hurt in his eyes.

The wine, along with the atmosphere and his vulnerability were softening her edges…careful Ella.

“Maybe I’m being obtuse, but I still don’t understand why you’re so upset. I’m paying you a more than generous salary and you get to go back to your old job.”

“Just when I was softening you have to open your mouth and say something idiotic,” she said. “Perhaps we should change the subject.”

“Fine.”

The silence was deafening, neither wanting to be the first to give in. Finally, Kyle caved. “Tell me about your life outside of the hospital,” he said.

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