This Billionaire's Nurse: This Billionaire, #8

By Rachel Foster

Lucas Good is a workaholic school principal whose father is dying. A strained relationship with his brother has added more to his heart ache. Now his ex-girlfriend Amy has decided to quit her job as the school nurse and follow her current flame's career to the coast. He instantly falls for one of his interviewee's, Leslie. She's sweet, kind and funny and he can't stop thinking of her.Leslie is a nurse who absolutely loves her job, but hates the long hours that she works. Always missing out with friends and not having a chance at a love life, her choice to apply for a school nurse position brings her excitement. She doesn't get the job, but she gets the boss. Now she's learning that Lucas has had a thing for nurses in the past and the reason she didn't get the job had nothing to do with her interview. Will Lucas be able to deal with all the things happening in his life or will it send Leslie running?

• Language: English
• Publisher: 3rd Publishing
• Release date: Mar 6, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215081259

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This Billionaire's Nurse

Rachel Foster

Copyright © 2018 by Rachel Foster

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Epilogue

1

L

ucas

I sat snugly behind my desk as my assistant principal walked into my office. He offered me a friendly grin as he ushered in two children.

Good afternoon, Johnson, I greeted. Who do you have for me today?

Well, it seems that Donovan and Frank here have been having a disagreement today.

I nodded. Alright, then. We'll see if we can sort it out.

I smiled at the two boys standing awkwardly in my office. I invited them to sit down in the chairs opposite my desk, retaining my friendly demeanor.

You know the drill, boys, I reminded them. One at a time. Let's start with Frank.

The smallest of the two, a wiry child with red hair and glasses, leaned forward. He pointed to the boy next to him.

Donovan called me 'four eyes,' he explained in a small voice. I told him to stop and he wouldn't stop, so I told Ms. Harper.

I didn't say that! Donovan claimed.

I gave him a stern look. Without a word, Donovan sank down slightly, crossing his arms.

I turned back to Frank. You did the right thing by telling your teacher. I'm going to ask Donovan what happened now, okay?

Frank nodded.

Donovan, I said while turning to the other child. He was much taller than Frank even though he was the same age. His brown hair was smoothed back from his forehead. Did you call Frank that name?

No, he replied firmly. I didn't say anything.

Can you tell me what happened?

I was doing my assignment with Frank like Ms. Harper said. Frank said I was doing it wrong. I got mad.

I nodded with understanding. Sometimes, we say things when we're mad that we don't mean to say. Did you call Frank a name while you were mad?

Donovan huffed. I guess I did.

It's unacceptable to be rude, even if we think we have a reason to do it. I confirmed with Ms. Harper that what Frank is saying is the truth. She overheard you calling him that name.

Donovan folded his arms tighter, sinking farther into his seat.

You know, I've done that once, I explained calmly while relaxing back in my chair. I was angry at my best friend and I called him a jerk.

Frank chuckled, covering his mouth.

Do you know what I did when my best friend told me I hurt his feelings?

Donovan shook his head.

I apologized, I said. And I made sure to make things right. I think it would be an excellent mark of your character to apologize to Frank here.

Donovan turned to Frank, blinking a few times before turning back to me.

He shrugged. I don't want to do that.

Then, I'll have to call your parents.

No, don't do that!

I smiled politely. It would be wise to apologize to Frank. We all make mistakes, Donovan. We do things when we're mad that we wouldn't normally do. It's okay to make mistakes. It's not okay to let those mistakes go without apologies.

Donovan sighed. He dropped his arms and turned to Frank, saying in a low voice, I'm sorry I called you 'four eyes.'

Thank you, Donovan, Frank said. I forgive you.

I smiled at them both. You two are good kids. Don't let your emotions dictate how you treat your friends, okay? If you need help, ask for help.

Okay, Mr. Good, they replied at the same time.

I buzzed Johnson into my office. I gestured to the boys with a wide smile and announced, Problem solved. You can take them back to Ms. Harper.

Will do, Lucas.

I sighed when Johnson took the boys with him. I slumped in my chair, rubbing my temples as I observed the clock above the door. School was nearly over. I needed a long break from my hectic day. Although I knew this job inside and out, it still took a toll on me.

My office phone rang.

I lifted the receiver and held it to me, greeting, This is Principal Lucas Good.

It's Deirdre here! Sir, we still need your approval of the bake sale items list.

My goodness, have I forgotten about that already?

She laughed. The list should be in your email. I sent you an extra copy just in case.

You're a doll, Deidre. I don't think I would remember anything without your assistance.

You're too kind, Lucas. Let me know when you're finished so I can send it to the parents.

Absolutely!

I hung up the phone and logged into my email, clicking on the first in the list. I went over the baked goods that had been commonly approved in the past. When I was satisfied with the list, I sent Deirdre my approval and sat back in my chair, resuming my relaxed position.

I eyed the clock again. I had about ten minutes before dismissal procedures began. I whipped out my phone and texted one of my friends, Harold.

Hey buddy, I wrote. Let's get some drinks later.

Wow, the busy Lucas wants to hang out!

I chuckled and shook my head. It's been a busy day. I could use a drink.

It's not even Friday. Were the kids that rowdy today?

Something like that. Let Percy know, and I'll grab Johnson later.

Sure thing, buddy. Don't get too lost in your job.

I huffed with amusement as I tucked my phone into my pocket. I rose from my seat and leaned into a stretch, trying to shake away the stress from my muscles. I rubbed the back of my neck.

If I hadn't been so hyper-focused on being a principal, I would have a woman to go home to who might give me a back rub, I thought. But I don't and that's okay. I don't need to settle down. My job is more important right now.

After one more stretch, I hopped into action to begin dismissal procedures, forgetting the fact that recalling my commitment to my job had left me feeling somewhat lonely.

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I stepped up to the pool table with my pool cue, examining the balls on the table. I squinted at one near the right corner, analyzing how I would encourage it into the far-left pocket.

All bets are off, Johnson stated. You guys can't handle playing against this guy.

The unbeatable duo, I added. That's Johnson and me. Are you sure you guys can handle it?

I smiled playfully before taking a position, aiming expertly with my cue at the cue ball. I took my shot and watched nonchalantly as my intended ball pocketed perfectly into the far-left hole.

I smiled wider. Harold, you were saying?

Harold rolled his eyes. You didn't bounce it like I thought you would.

Still, you owe me another beer.

When is it our turn? Percy asked. It feels like Lucas and Johnson have been running the whole game.

Because they have, Harold replied. This is what we get for going up against them at their own sport. It's the holidays all over again!

I laughed. How about a round of darts?

"Now, I can do that, Percy said confidently as he stood up. But we shouldn't waste this game. Why don't you finish us up, Lucas?"

I nodded in agreement, rounding the table to get back to the cue ball. I aimed and knocked the rest of the balls in, inviting a round of applause from my friends.

Johnson clapped me on the back. If only you could apply this skill to the dating world.

I'd be swimming in potentials, eh?

He laughed. But you work too much. You don't have time to date.

"You only say that because you work with me."

At least you don't make me keep the same hours.

I chuckled. Is that an invitation to start?

"Oh, hell no!"

I cackled as I set the pool cue back in its place, turning to face the dartboard that Percy was setting up. The sounds of life erupted all around us. The jukebox played plenty of pop tunes while the sound of glasses clinked in every corner of the room. It was lively for a Thursday night, but I appreciated the noise. The more noise I heard, the less I thought about how work had taken over my life.

What are you getting in your head about again, buddy?

I turned to Johnson. What?

You've got that look again.

Oh, I'm tired. Being a principal can be tiring.

I couldn't tell.

I laughed. I was just thinking about tomorrow.

Already? It's not even 9:00 PM yet.

I like being prepared. You know that.

He nodded. It makes you a damn good principal. Have I told you that lately?

It might have been a few hours since you last said it.

When are you going to take a break?

When summer comes along.

He laughed. I meant, when are you going to start dating again? It's been a while since...you know.

Yeah, well, she wanted something I couldn't give. And if I couldn't give that to her, then why would I put another woman through that?

I guess that makes sense. Is it awkward working with her in the same school?

She's the nurse. I hardly see her.

He nodded. Sure, but it's strange, isn't it?

I shrugged. I'm not bothered. We went our separate ways amicably.

I guess you did. Well, don't let her presence stop you from seeking another woman, you know?

Why are you so suddenly concerned with my dating life?

He chuckled. You put on a professional appearance for everyone. You're always there for teachers and staff. You do your best. But I know that can take a toll on a man. I've seen how you look sometimes behind closed doors.

"It gets lonely sometimes, but that doesn't mean I need to date."

No, but you could consider it.

I cocked my head curiously to the left. I guess I could.

You're my best friend, Lucas. And I'm not just saying that because I'm the assistant principal.

I appreciate you, buddy. You've always had my back.

He nodded and clapped me on the back. And that's why I think I should set you up with someone.

Oh, not this again.

The last one was a mistake. I shouldn't have set you up with Stacy. I didn't know she was going to be that firm about having babies.

I laughed. It's all she talked about at dinner.

Well, I thought because you two worked with kids that it would be a nice match.

I'll give you ten points for effort.

He cackled. Alright, let's get these darts going before Percy loses his confidence.

Should I let him win a few rounds?

Oh, definitely. He's been having a rough time with his girl. I'll tell Harold to go easy on him, too.

An excellent idea.

I patted him on the back before turning my attention to the dartboard. Percy had tossed a few. Harold was keeping tabs on points on the chalkboard near the darts. We went a few rounds and I lowered my skills as instructed. Percy won a couple of games and we all cheered for him, purchasing another round of drinks and appetizers.

As the night wore on, I grew tired. The school day was catching up with me. As soon as our fourth round of darts was done, I bid farewell to everyone. I returned to my house where I relaxed into the couch, unable to move yet to my bed.

Another school day tomorrow, I thought. And then it's the weekend. What will I do with my weekend without work...?

2

L

eslie

I collapsed in a chair in the break room, dropping my head into my hands. My shoulders were aching, and my legs were on fire. I glanced down at my sneakers, noticing how worn they looked just from walking around today.

Tough day, Leslie?

I shrugged as I lifted my head to focus on my co-worker. "Haven, you have no idea."

I mean, I could take a wild guess.

She grabbed a can of Coke from the fridge and slid it across from me, popping the tab open.

I accepted it gratefully. It's just too long.

The shifts?

I nodded.

Well, it's what we signed up for.

I signed up to help people, not wander the halls of the hospital like a zombie.

I swigged back the can, inviting the caffeine to amplify my system. It barely did much. I took a few more sips to jump start my system as best I could.

I think I'm the only nurse who absolutely hates working 12-hour shifts.

She shrugged. I'm not fond of them either, but the alternating days works out for me.

It's not working so hot for me. I value my sleep above all else.

We're not much without our rest.

I leaned forward as if about to divulge some great secret. How do you do it? How do you manage to stay so perky on the job?

I nap when I can.

But where?

She giggled. Everywhere—empty patient rooms, closets, and anywhere else a human body can fit. I once took a nap on a gurney down near the coroner's office. It was the best sleep I'd gotten in weeks.

Ugh, that sounds so morbid.

Well, we do what we can.

I nodded. I'm grateful to have this job. It pays great, but the hours are killing me. I think this is my third pair of sneakers in the last year. I can't keep a pair longer than a few months.

I always go through 'em, too.

She stood up and grabbed another can of Coke from the fridge, settling across from me with a sigh. She popped open her can and took a long sip.

Do you think I'm cut out for this? I asked. I mean, do you think I'm good?

Honey, you're one of the best nurses we've had in a while.

Thanks, Haven. I appreciate that.

She laughed. Heck, do you really think you're not good?

No, it's not that.

Then, what is it?

I sighed and shrugged. I guess I'm tired. This whole 12-hour shift thing has messed up my brain completely. I'm not even sure what day it is.

It's Friday.

Are you serious?

She laughed. Do you want to swap shifts? You can have tomorrow off. I can take a few shifts off you next week, too.

I might take you up on that. I could use a serious break.

Everyone loves you, Leslie. If we miss one weekend with you, it won't hurt. But just don't stay away for too long.

I smiled warmly. I'm glad I'm useful here.

You know your stuff and your bedside manner is excellent.

I do my best.

She waved away my humble comment. "Honey, you are the best. We have people that ask about you when you're not here. That's how good you are."

I just like making sure everybody is comfortable. It's just how I am.

That just makes for being a great nurse.

I laughed. I'm glad I haven't been too tired to mix things up. I'm afraid that's going to happen one of these days.

Well, you can't expect yourself to be perfect. Accidents happen.

Not here. Not in a hospital.

That's why you have nurses like me who have your back.

I grinned. Thanks, Haven. You're the best.

Take tomorrow to yourself and come back refreshed. We need you at your best.

I'm just trying to keep up. It's so much. Not even nursing school was this hard.

She laughed. Well, I can agree with that, but you didn't study under the guy I had.

Who did you have?

Dr. Cyclops.

I cackled. "Oh, no! I've heard so many horror stories about that man. I hear it's near impossible to pass through with him."

I managed to survive, but by a literal hair.

That's wild. I'm glad you made it here. I would have never met you if you hadn't.

She smiled sweetly. That's nice of you to say.

Well, I can't imagine trying to run these hallways without you guys. You keep me pepped up.

Apparently, not enough to stay awake in the break room.

I shook my head, realizing that I had snorted. I rubbed my forehead and then brought the can of soda to my lips again, taking a few gulps. I cringed at the carbonation burning my throat.

Ugh, I groaned. This might not be enough.

Time to whip out the espresso shots, Haven said while digging into her pocket. Here, these things will make your skin vibrate, but you'll stay awake.

Thanks, honey. I might need more than one.

I wouldn't recommend more than one at a time.

I giggled. Why?

You'll be able to hear colors.

I cackled while accepting the small bottle from her. As I unscrewed the cap, I prayed silently to whatever gods were listening to give me the energy I needed for the rest of my shift. It was only four more hours. What could go wrong in four hours?

I tipped back the shot and shivered, my eyes widening.

Oh, I sighed. That's some high-end espresso.

It's got lots of other things in it, too.

Like?

She smiled playfully. Best not to ask. Just let it do its wonders.

You're scaring me, Haven.

Let's go do our rounds of medicine before something decides to go wrong.

I laughed. Don't say that too loud. Somebody might hear you.

I followed her out of the break room, tossing my shot and my empty can of Coke in the trash before heading to the nurse's station. I slapped some hand sanitizer on my hands, rubbed them together, and then shook them to get them dry. I lifted my clipboard and a pen to take with me.

As I made my rounds, I made sure to be loving and gentle with every person I met. I checked vitals, took down new symptoms for the doctor to review, and gave the appropriate medicine to the people in my wing. When I had finally finished, the sun had fled from the sky and my shift was finally over.

I wandered down to the locker rooms to shower and change. I took my tiredness with me, trudging out to my car once I was done cleaning up and gathering my things. I slumped into my car and drove home. I practically made it on muscle memory alone. I changed again, this time into something a little more appealing, and headed right back out the door.

I sat in my car while texting my best friend. Carrie, where are you? I'm ready for a drink.

I'm down at the pub with the girls. Come join us!

I smiled and set my phone down to drive. I arrived at the pub within minutes, also by muscle memory. I wandered inside and located Carrie sitting in the corner of the bar with a couple of our girlfriends.

She greeted me with a huge hug. Took you long enough!

My shift took long enough. How's the crowd, girls?

To die for, Delores said while holding up her martini. There are more hotties here than ever.

Pipe down, Sara warned. And don't hog the water. Let someone else mingle for a change.

Delores laughed. We should send Leslie out there. She needs a mate in her life.

Nah, I replied while waving down the bartender. I'm busy as it is.

Maybe just for the night?

I shrugged. I mean, that isn't a bad idea, but I'm too tired for all that nonsense.

So, let me handle the details.

Actually, Delores is pretty good at that, Carrie pointed out. "She got me hooked up one night and it was just divine."

I'll take it into consideration, I replied with a grin. For now, drinks.

Delores nodded. I can agree with that. Who wants a shot?

I raised my hand immediately. I paid for my drink and watched Delores order us a round of shots. I accepted mine and held it up, toasting to the day off I was about to have. We clinked our glasses together and drank, setting the shot glasses down on the counter. After the bartender collected them, I turned to observe the bar.

I was trying to sit upon my stool, but my back refused to stay straight. My shoulders were still aching. I knew my martini would handle my aches for the time being. But it wasn't working fast enough. I took another sip and turned to the girls who were excitedly chatting about something.

I couldn't keep up with the conversation. When Sara and Delores went to the dance floor to hit on a couple of guys, I leaned against Carrie.

She wrapped her arm around me. What's wrong, sweetie?

I'm just tired.

Is it that bad?

I nodded. I don't love the long hours and I hate how tired I am when I'm done working.

That sounds awful.

I'm running 12-hour shifts. Can you believe that?

She shrugged. That's how I hear the nurse's life is.

It's wretched.

I can tell, sweetie. You're starting to get bags under your eyes.

I raised my hands to my face, fixing my hair to cover part of my cheeks. My long auburn-brown hair was a savior in this case. I fluffed it up, giving it that messy couture appearance before turning back to Carrie.

Any better?

She smiled warmly. I didn't mean you looked bad, honey.

I know. I'm just so self-conscious about how this job is affecting me.

Have you thought about looking into other jobs?

I cocked my head curiously. I guess not yet. What do you think I could do?

Sara returned waving a sheet of paper. Got a number!

I smiled and clapped my hands. That was fast!

Well, Delores taught me the ropes. What are we talking about?

Carrie gestured to me. Leslie needs new job ideas.

Oh, what's wrong with your job, honey?

I shrugged. Hours are too long. I'm exhausted.

Have you thought about geriatrics? Maybe a nursing home?

That might be too depressing for me. I want to help people, but also keep my head sane.

Yeah, that's fair, Delores agreed. How about teaching? Does your degree cover that?

I mean, it's possible, but I don't want to discover that I have to go back to school. I want to get into something new as quickly as possible.

Sara nodded. That's fair. We don't want you to be any more stressed than you are.

You could always keep an eye out on the paper, Delores suggested. New postings appear like every other day.

That's a good idea, I agreed. Well, enough talk about work and things. I want to unwind. How about a round of shots on me?

Yes!

Let's do it!

I waved down the bartender and ordered a round of shots. We made a toast, clinked our glasses, and then tipped them back. I slouched in my stool, attempting to keep my energy up to no avail. I watched Delores and Sara saunter back to the dance floor. Carrie stuck by me with a smile on her lips.

I turned to her. "Thanks for sitting with me. I know I'm a party