“See, now you’re distracting me. I had a whole speech prepared,” I say, dramatically clearing my throat. “Ms. Kind, I want to apologize for my brash, immature behavior. My actions weren’t a true reflection of my heart. And I’d be so honored and eternally grateful if you’d accept the job opportunity to teach my children. You’re funny, intelligent, creative, you’re excited about what you do; you are exactly who they need in their lives. And...” I nervously rub the back of my neck, “I need you to come home with me, home to your new place of residence as my in-house educator.”

Her eyes widen with surprise followed by a moment of silence until she suddenly bursts into laughter. “Hold on, what? First of all, “in-house educator?” Did you just randomly come up with that title?”

I pause, slightly embarrassed. “I did. But that’s not the point! Look,” I gently squeeze her hand. “I was a fool for not hiring you on the spot. A damn fool. And I won’t go home empty-handed. So, will you accept the offer?”

She sighs, her expression teasing as she contemplates, making me wait in suspense. “And you want me to move in today? Will I at least have my own space? How far away would my room be from the girls? You don’t have secret cameras planted around the house, do you? Who am I kidding, I’ve known you for a few days and can already tell you’re a control freak. Of course, you have cameras everywhere!” She hysterically rolls her eyes.

“Correction, I only have cameras in the kitchen, classroom, great room, and perimeter of the house. But why does that matter?”

“Because I don’t need you stalking me, especially when I’m wearing next to nothing.” She nonchalantly quips.

“Okay,” I nod, licking my lips, a little flustered. “So, you like to be naked. Noted.” The words slip out before I can stop them.

“Mr. Grimes!” She gasps and playfully hits my arm.

“My bad,” I rush to apologize. “Really, Kerry, you’ve got nothing to worry about. I respect your privacy, and as your employer, our relationship will be strictly professional. Nothing more. As a matter of fact, I’ll be at my office for most of the day. Therefore, you’ll barely see me. So, do we have a deal? $150,000 salary for one year?”

I extend my hand, hoping she’ll accept my apology, my offer, and my intent to make things right.

Kerry pauses, eyeing my hand before looking up to meet my gaze. Then finally, with a soft sigh, she places her hand in mine. “Okay, we have a deal.” A smile widens across her face accompanied by a squeal. “Oh, my goodness, I’m a teacher again!”