Chapter 50

That comment rubbed her the wrong way—it felt like something was stuck tight in Charisse's chest, so tight she could barely swallow. Elliot strolled in and flopped down in the chair, legs crossed, looking every bit like he was just waiting for the drama to unfold. Charisse knew this situation was lose-lose. If she said yes to Clayton, it would just confirm to Elliot that she'd stooped low to climb up the ladder. But a "no" wouldn't help either—she'd still look calculating, like she was playing hard to get on purpose. Either way, she'd get laughed at. But honestly? Charisse had stopped caring a long time ago. She wasn't trying to look good in Elliot's eyes. Lowering her lashes, she said softly, "Mr. Ellis, I can't leave the Luna Heights Hotel." "I'll take care of your dad's medical bills—don't you worry about that," Clayton offered, tone almost sweet-talking. "What's got you hesitating? Money? I'll pay you ten times your current salary if you just stay home and relax." Elliot let out a