Page 127 of War Within
“I promise you will thank me one day. Babies are a lot of work and you’re so busy. I’m also busy. He needs a mother or a nanny. You choose.”
“I'm going to regret this but if it'll shut you up, fine.”
Her mouth fell agape as a huge smile appeared on her face again.
“However!” I lifted my hand. “I have conditions.”
“Anything.”
“No old ladies, no men, and no sugar baby type women.” I shuddered at the thought. “I don't need or want that drama.”
“Agreed.” She nodded once.
I rolled my bottom lip between my fingertips. “Conduct these interviews elsewhere. I'll give you access to run background checks.”
“I'll start in the morning.” She stretched, resting her hand on my arm. “You’re going to be so happy with this, I swear.” She jerked her hand away when she realized she was touching me. She knew how much I hated people touching me.
A week later, Lily informed me about the new nanny she had found, but I managed to tune out the majority of what she said. I did not much care about anything other than her passing all the background checks and extensive investigation I had Carmine perform.
Saturday morning, I was sitting in my office when I heard the chime of the doorbell. She was here. While no part of me wanted anything to do with her, I knew I had to meet her. Moments later I heard a light tapping on the door frame.
“Mr. Rovati?”
Without glancing up, I wiggled my finger, summoning her in the room as I finished up an email. She appeared in front of my desk within seconds. Slowly lifting my gaze, I prepared a harsh greeting.
Before me, stood a stunning, young woman full of confidence. Her long warm-copper hair cascaded down her chest as her emerald eyes fixated on mine. Why was she not acting timid? Women did not usually look me in the eyes unless they knew me. Was this woman challenging me in my own home?
“Sooo, am I supposed to talk first orrr—” She offered a pleasant smile as her voice trailed off.
I refused to be distracted by her beauty. “Tell me Miss Stone, why are you in my house?” I pointed to the chair in front of my desk.
Confusion brushed her lips as she took a seat, tucking her skirt under her flawless thighs. “To help you take care of your son, sir.”
“My friend, Lily, thought I would need help, but I think we will be fine.” My gaze could not help but trail her figure. Instantly, I clenched my jaw, forcing myself to become rigid.
Before I could have her removed from my home, she lifted her hands. “Mr. Rovati, you have too much going on right now. I'm just here to help take some of that burden off you.”
“My son is not a burden!”
Closing her eyes, she gulped. “That was a bad choice of words.” She lifted her gaze, once again fixating on mine. “I just mean, I know you have a lot going on. It can't be easy, sir. I’m just here to help make it easier on you. I assure you I’m qualified for the job and Lily made sure to grill me for an hour. She’s very protective over you and your family.”
Lifting my fingers to my chin, I stroked my stubble. “My family.” A dark chuckle rumbled in my chest. “And what doyouknow about me, exactly?”
“I’ve only ever seen you on TV. I don’t believe I know you at all. You can’t trust what the medi—”
“Are you here for my money?” I narrowed my eyes on her, ready to call her bluff. “Are you here to lure me to bed, Miss Stone?”
“What?!” She snapped, enveloping her arms over her stomach defensively, arching a brow. “You don’t even know me!”
“And you don't know me!” I sprung to my feet, tapping my fingers on the surface of my desk.
She jumped, gripping the arm rests of the chair. “Listen, I'm here to do the job I was hired for. If you don't like me, it’s okay.” Pursing her lips, she exhaled. “But we have the same concern. That's your son's well-being. I'll stay out of your way but I'm tougher than I look.” She sprung to her feet. “And you will not break me because you are hurting!” Her eyelids flickered as her mouth fell agape. “I’m sorry, I—”
“Get out of my office.” I growled.
Nodding, she dropped her head, averting her gaze as she trudged toward the door.
“Miss Stone?”
