An Unlikely Bride (Lucas & Ava)

Toxic.

“Let’s talk about what I can do,” I say, needing to think about something other than her. Toxic. Toxic.

Nate takes me on a circuitous route, showing me the different wings for cancer care, regular pediatrics, maternity and so on. Once we’re back to his office, he closes the door. I take an armchair by the desk and stretch my legs out, crossing my ankles.

“I’m thinking about a year-end charity function,” he says, sitting across me. “People tend to be more giving in December.”

“Okay. So who am I helping?”

“Actually, you’ll have to spearhead this one. Robbie’s great at managing hospitals, but he’s not that great at raising money.”

Is this the same guy Elizabeth was talking about? “Who’s Robbie?”

“He’s the administrator in charge of operations and capital investments. A great guy, just not great at fundraising. He probably never had to do much of it in his previous positions. But he’s swamped right now, so most likely he’s going to have his assistant do the work with you. I heard she’s quite diligent.” Nate smiles. “Pretty, too. If she weren’t working here, I’d probably ask her out.”

I uncross my ankles and sit up straight. Nate is exceptionally partial to blondes. As a matter of fact, to the best of my knowledge he’s only ever dated blondes. “What’s her name?” I casually ask, even as my heart pushes into my throat.

“Ava Huss. She came highly recommended by a friend who’s working here as a nurse, and also by your sister. It was really Elizabeth who sealed the deal for me. I know she’d never refer someone who wasn’t good.”

Fury explodes in my chest, and it’s all I can do not to break something. I stand, my entire body shaking.

“Are you okay?” Nate asks.

“I’m fine. I just remembered I have an appointment. Can we discuss the rest of the fundraiser thing later?”

“I’m actually flying to Chicago tonight, but you’re welcome to call or meet Robbie anytime. He knows about your involvement.” Nate hands me a card with Robbie’s contact info on it.

“Fantastic. Thanks.”

I shove the card into my pocket. My gait is uneven as I hurry. If I slow down, I can hide the limp, but I don’t bother. If I could wish for any superpower, it would be to instantly appear in front of Elizabeth.

Making my way to my car, I call her. Before she can say a word, I spit out, “How dare you!”

She gasps. “Lucas?”

“I told you to stay the fuck out of this.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Ava Huss. You got her a damned job.”

“Oh. That.”

“Oh. That. Yes. That.”

“She lost her job—probably because she had to give it up to come home with you. So I thought I’d help.”

The way I maneuvered Ava into her unemployment status makes my conscience squirm. Think of the two million bucks. “She didn’t need your help.”

“Lucas, the economy is horrible. It’s not like her résumé is stellar. But I figured if she got an interview, she’d be able to impress the guy. And she did.”

“She didn’t need a job, Elizabeth. I gave her money.”

A short pause. “You gave her money.”

“Yes.”

“How much?”