Page 46 of Rough Around the Hedges

I bet I could do it. I was strong.

I’d certainly give it a bloody good go.

“What do you think I gain by accepting that?” I said, tilting my head to the side questioningly. “I don’t accept hush money.”

“I don’t offer hush money,” he replied.

“You just did.”

Oliver pressed his lips together. “Maybe a little.”

“So… compensation?” I said, rocking my fork side to side. “How far are you willing to go?”

His eyes held a hint of wariness. “I thought you didn’t accept hush money.”

“I thought you didn’t offer it.” I smirked. “I have an idea, if you’re willing to listen.”

“I’ll listen, but it doesn’t mean I’ll do it.”

“I understand.” I held up a hand. “What I want is your time.”

“My time?”

“Mhmm.” I wiggled my fingers. “One week of it, to be exact.”

He looked away, and his lips puffed outwards as he exhaled heavily. “I run a business. I can’t just take a week off at the drop of a hat to please you.”

“You’re awfully cocky for someone coming to offermecompensation forhismistake.”

Oliver groaned, looking away with his fingers buried in his hair. “I still can’t just take a week off.”

“Fine. Two weekends of my choosing, plus six evenings between the hours of five and eight.”

“One weekend and four evenings between four and eight.”

“Mine was a final offer,” I said.

“You didn’t say that.”

“I don’t negotiate with terrorists.”

“How am I a terrorist?”

“You’re terrorising me.” I sniffed. “Fine. Two weekends of my choosing, six evenings between the hours of five and eight, and two other three-hour blocks wherein I will give one week’s notice. Final offer.”

He shot me a look. “You’ve added six hours onto your original demand.”

“Think of it as payment for today’s emotional distress.”

“What exactly do you plan to do to me in those hours?”

“Oh, wouldn’t you like to know?” I grinned.

“I would, actually.” He took a step closer to me and dipped his chin. “You know, Rose, if you want to spend time with me that badly, all you have to do is ask.”

“I’d prefer if you kept your perverted fantasies to yourself, sir,” I replied nonchalantly. “I believe I’ve already told you therewill never be a time in which I actually want to spend time with you.”

“There already has been.”

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