“Thank you,” he says quietly as I place his breakfast in front of him, his eyes locking with mine. “I mean it.”
“You’re welcome.” I hold his gaze for a beat, then head back toward the island to tidy up.
As I wipe down the counters, I watch him with his kids. He seems awkward and unsure. Almost like he doesn’t know how to talk to or be around them. As if he’s not used to spending time with them like this.
When was the last time he was able to just enjoy his kids instead of rushing to feed, bathe, and get them ready for bed? Probably a while.
Hopefully, by my being here, he’ll finally have a chance to spend some quality time with his kids and get to know them.
And for them to get to know him, too.
“If anything comes up, be sure to call me,” Hayden instructs after breakfast as I follow him and Presley toward the front door while still keeping an eye on Jemmy, who’s currently building a castle out of blocks in the living room. “If I don’t answer, call the front desk number. I also left that in the instructions. Tell them who you are and someone will come get me. But if it’s an emergency, call 911 first.”
“Really?” I feign surprise mixed with confusion. “Is that what I should do?”
I can sense his frustration with me, but he needs to relax.
“Jemmy likes to get into trouble.”
“He’s just exploring his world.” I look back at Jemmy as he holds a block in front of his eyes, examining it with the intensity of an archeologist who has just uncovered a hidden artifact from centuries ago.
“You still need to keep a close eye on him. He likes to put Barbie shoes up his nose. And everything goes in his mouth, so you have to be careful to make sure he doesn’t choke on anything.” His eyes widen. “Wait. You know first aid, right? What to do if he’s choking? You could probably manage to keep toys out of his mouth, but he sometimes chokes on his food. Maybe I?—”
“Relax,” I say, touching his arm again.
And again, that same sizzle of awareness courses through me from the contact.
I slowly withdraw my hand. “I’m certified in first aid and CPR. I’ve got this.”
He glances between me and Jemmy, uncertain. I can sense how difficult this is for him.
Normally, I wouldn’t waste my time working for someone who questioned my ability to perform the tasks I’m more than capable of. I experienced enough of that in my old life, and I vowed never to make myself small for anyone else ever again.
But this feels…different.
As crazy as it sounds, maybe there’s a reason the universe dropped this opportunity in my lap when I was moments away from leaving this small town in search of my next adventure.
“Go,” I tell Hayden. “You have my number. Call and check in anytime you need.”
He hesitates before pushing out a long breath. “I’ll be home around six. And Presley will be dropped off a little after three.”
“I’ve got it,” I say for what feels like the hundredth time this morning.
But it’s obvious he questions whether that’s true.
Finally, he ushers Presley out of the house, closing the door behind him.
It doesn’t escape my notice he never gave Jemmy a hug or kiss goodbye.
CHAPTER SEVEN
HAYDEN
I’mon time for work.
Not sprinting through the front door while trying to shove a piece of cold toast into my mouth. Not fielding a call from the school because I forgot to pack Presley’s lunch. Not already exhausted before my day even begins.
I have to admit, I didn’t exactly have high expectations for Rowan.
