Page 7 of Trailer Trash

“Stop,” he interrupts. “I can’t get you fired. My dad doesn’t give a fuck about anything I say. Be yourself.”

I squint, skeptical.

“I mean it. He hates me.”

My lips purse, locking my mouth tight.

He sighs. “Fine, be a lowly CNA who nobody cares about.”

My mouth hangs open.

I stare for a moment, then glance toward the hall. Nobody’s there.

Slowly, I move closer and lean over his bed. His presence is intimidating, but he deserves this.

“Okay, I think you’re a spoiled brat.”

He laughs. Really laughs. I guess he likes someone as honest as I am.

I give a wicked grin, relieved he isn’t angry.

“Why work nights?” he asks.

“Because I go to nursing school before my shift.”

“Good for you.”

I lift my chin higher and beam, proud of myself. “Yeah, I’m kind of a badass.”

The word ‘badass’ comes off a little weak, though. I’m still telling myself I am. Maybe I’ll actually believe it once I graduate.

He clearly doesn’t buy my fib, because he smothers another laugh. “And what do you and your bloated ego do for fun?”

“Oh. The rumors are true. You can be funny.” But my smile fades. “I don’t have time for fun anymore, but when I did, I loved dancing. Clubs. Just letting loose with my girls.”

His head tilts, his eyes gleaming with curiosity.

“Hang out with me, then you’ll have fun.”

Is he flirting?

I shake my head and grin.

His eyes keep dropping to my mouth. Maybe he likes my smile.

What am I talking about? This rich boy probably has a girlfriend. Not only that, he’s a freaking addict!

“I can’t have fun with you. I don’t make enough money to keep up with your lifestyle. Besides, I’d never do drugs.”

“Never? You sure you don’t want to end up chained to a hospital bed?”

“I’m sure,” I reply, grinning. “Not that it doesn’t look awesome.”

“Bite and a sense of humor. That’s a dangerous combination,” he says smoothly.

Okay. This man is definitely flirting.

I try not to blush or look stupid.