The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 504

Ellinor smirked, "Bartlett, I’ve gotta say, you're a real bore sometimes. So boring that you can actually remember stuff like that."

Bartlett replied calmly, "I didn't make an effort to remember; it's just that I can't forget that day. To me, it was like our first date, Ellinor."

Date? What date?

She was a married woman then, albeit just in a business partnership with Theo. But if that could be counted as a date, wouldn't that be betrayal?

Ellinor didn't want to chat with Bartlett anymore. Every word he said was like a tease. Too bad he picked the wrong girl. She wasn't falling for his tricks.

Across the table, Balfour was busy rearranging his poker cards. He looked up to find Ellinor and Bartlett whispering and a hint of disdain appeared in his eyes.

Haillie often mentioned that Ellinor was a man-magnet and was always ready to flirt when given the chance. He was skeptical, as Ellinor didn't strike him as a frivolous girl.

But now, even a seasoned player like Bartlett couldn't resist her charm. There was no denying that Ellinor had some tricks up her sleeve.

Balfour was growing a distaste for his new secretary.

Suddenly, a ringtone echoed in the room, followed by intermittent vibrations.

Balfour glanced at the caller ID and picked up, "What's up? Alright, I'll be right there!"

After hanging up, Balfour turned to Ellinor, "Ms. Mendoza."

Ellinor put down her glass and stood up, "Yes, Mr. Howard?"

Balfour commanded, "Mind the cards for me; I’ve gotta step out for a bit."

Even though she was reluctant, Ellinor had no choice but to comply, "Alright."

She took over the deck of cards from Balfour and took his seat at the table.

After Balfour left, Jonah Wyton seemed quite excited. He raised an eyebrow and had a smirk on his face as he began teasing Ellinor, "You know how to play poker? Are you brave enough to take over Mr. Howard's place?"

Ellinor answered, "A little."

Furthermore, Ellinor remained expressionless throughout. She even yawned occasionally and seemed distracted while playing.

And she still won?!

It was like a silent slap in their faces.

Jonah frowned, "Why did you say you only knew a little with skills like this?"

Ellinor gave a slight smile, "No, it's Mr. Howard who's lucky. The cards were good."

Jonah chuckled, "Oh! You're being modest. Let's see how you fare in the next round! Since you're so good at poker, how about we raise the stakes?"

Ellinor didn't take the bait, "If you want to up the ante, you can wait for Mr. Howard. I'm just an employee; I don't have the money or the authority. I'm just here to hold on to Mr. Howard's stake and won’t raise."

Jonah wasn't going to let her off the hook, "No problem, we don't have to bet money! The next round is on you. Are you up for a bet against us?"