Unsure about crossing border as a visitor for business

Here's my situation. Looking forward to getting anyone's input on this. I had gone as a visitor last year to SF bay area in Oct 2010 to visit my Aunt's family At that time I was unemployed. 2 weeks into my trip I was able to find an opportunity with a start-up who was willing to hire me and even sponsor me for H1B visa. I decided to continue staying in the US for a 6 month period as a visitor with my Aunt's family while my visa was being processed. I returned to Canada in April before my 6 month visitor period was over. After returning to Toronto I've been working from for the company as an independent contractor (not incorporated). By August 2011, we found out my H1B visa petition had been denied. We decided not to got the TN route or even try again for H1B based on the advice from a few lawyers. We decided that I would just carry on the work remotely, but if possible visit the US periodically. So now, my employer wants me to visit for a 2 week trip to the bay area. Will I be questioned heavily on my previous 6 month visit? What should I say at the border about the purpose of my trip? Do I just say I'm going to visit my Aunt? What do I say when they ask me about who my employer is? It is important that I go and visit periodically as I have no intent on staying the US. I don't want to risk not being able to go as a visitor in the future. Not sure about what to do in my situation. Appreciate any input.