Chapter 13

I stood at the door and turned around. "Since I offended you, Ms. Jefferson, let the drink be my apology. As for the money, I can't accept it. Besides, it's Ms. Smith's money, and I have no reason to take it since we have no connection whatsoever," I said, looking at Ophelia. If we were cutting ties, we might as well make it absolute. Ms. Jefferson laughed loudly. "You've got some guts. I like that! What's your name? Why don't you work for me instead? Someone with your backbone is just what I need. Follow me, and you'll never want for anything," she added. I knew she would treat me well, but I also knew exactly what kind of person she was. I replied, "Thank you for the offer, Ms. Jefferson, but I'm not looking to change jobs right now." Ms. Jefferson's amusement faded at my refusal to take the easy way out. She controlled her temper but said with an edge, "I've never met anyone who works here who isn't desperate for money. Ms. Smith mentioned you've lost several jobs recently. Aren