“That’s the only thing I want, Mr. Grimes.” I lie because it’s simpler. I lie because admitting the full depth of my feelings is a feat that both of us obviously can’t handle.

He sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose. Then, he pulls out his phone and taps a few buttons. “This can’t work, Ms. Kind. I just sent you your payment for today’s work.” He says, and my phone pings with the notification.

Disappointed but distracted by my phone notifications, my eyes widen in amazement. “$1,500 for a day’s work! That’s insane. I can’t accept this. It’s too much.”

“Well, you were told you’d be paid handsomely.” He responds, his voice tired, resigned.

“But I’d rather be paid a salary to be your daughters’ nanny.”

“That’s not gonna happen, Kerry.” He says, finality in his tone, then turns back to his paperwork, dismissing me.

Frustration ignites within me, and I lean in, reducing the space between us to mere inches, my voice a seething whisper that carries all my pent-up anger and determination. “I won’t let you dismiss me! Not like this. I’m beyond qualified and more than capable of not only teaching but also loving and nurturing your daughters, as I’ve done for every student I’ve cherished over my career! Why won’t you hire me? Why would you tease me with my livelihood only to snatch it away?”

The intensity of my own words doesn’t hit me until I feel the hot tears streaking down my cheeks, landing on the cold surface of his desk. Despite his tough exterior, I know the man I met on Saturday has a heart. I’ve felt it. I’ve seen it. And he proves it as his hand gently caresses my cheek, his touch a soothing contrast to the storm of emotions within me.

He presses his forehead against mine, and we find ourselves engulfed in this shared moment of vulnerability in the quiet of his study. His thumb tenderly traces my tear-stained cheek, and I let my eyes close, surrendering to the moment.

“Everyone in town says my name is so fitting, but life hasn’t always been so kind to me. I’ve endured so much, and I know your family has, too, but maybe that’s why we met, to bring some kindness into one another’s lives.”

His gaze locks onto mine, deep and tumultuous, a mirror to the raw emotions I feel. “You’ve already brought that and so much more, Kerry Kind.”

“Then hire me, please.” I plead.

“What would I be hiring you as, Kerry? As a nanny for my daughters, or as something more?” He asks, his breath warm against my face.

“Both.” I breathe out, lost in the depth of his gaze.

“Fuck,” he swears softly, his lips brushing against my neck, sending shivers down my spine. “You smell incredible.”