Despite my grandiose home and family name, I’ve never been the flashy type. Of the Grimes brothers, I’m the homebody who prefers to craft new recipes in the kitchen rather than schmooze at networking events. I own our multi-million-dollar family brand, but I hate the business side of things. I’d rather focus on the food.

“Did I hear laughter coming from my son’s room?” My mother sounds from the hallway.

“You heard right, Grandma! Daddy’s freaking out about leaving the house,” Sydney tattles with glee.

“Well, of course he is. He hasn’t stepped foot outside since we moved here. The whole town’s abuzz, wondering who the mysterious old man is behind the gates of Greer’s largest estate.” Mom adds as she strides into my room, her presence as formidable as ever.

“Old man? I’m only thirty-eight,” I protest, instinctively running a hand through my hair where the grey strands are staging a quiet rebellion. “I thought the grey hairs made me look distinguished, not old.”

Mom smirks, her eyes twinkling with mirth. “Distinguished, huh? That’s one way to put it. But seriously, Victor, it’s good you’re getting out tonight. We begin construction on the new restaurant in just one week and film your new cooking show in a few months. You’ll be the hot topic all year, so it’s about time you met the residents and fellow business owners.”

“They don’t need to meet me. That’s Hudson’s role, not mine. Or at least it was,” I grumble, adjusting my tie. “I just wish he’d grow up and accept that I’m CEO now. He needs to hurry up and get back so I can work from home and focus on the restaurants. Look at the girls’ sad faces. They need me.”

“We don’t,” Ariel and Sydney chime in together, their voices harmonizing in a chorus of budding wannabe pre-teen independence.

“Those days are over, Vic. If you’re not going to let your brother lead with you, then it’s time you start managing the entire business from the office. Besides, Hudson deserves his extended vacation after dealing with your stubbornness all these years. And don’t let your smart mouth get you into trouble tonight.”

I open my mouth to argue, but she steamrolls right over me.

“And the girls will be fine, especially when their new nanny arrives. She’s a former teacher, you know, the best this town has to offer.”

“Then why isn’t she teaching? She’s clearly unqualified.” I scoff while adjusting my tie. “They don’t need a nanny or a teacher anyway! And I certainly don’t need a nosy townie coming in and out of our home and prying into our lives.”

“Well, good news then,” Mom says smugly. “She won’t be coming in and out of our lives. She’s going to be living here.”