Inside Syd’s room, he settles beside her on the bed. He doesn’t even get halfway through the story before her eyes begin to flutter shut. His presence alone is a calming aid, even for me. I lean against the doorframe, watching the gentle rise and fall of Syd’s chest as she drifts off to sleep to his voice, her final murmur melting my heart. “I love you, Daddy. Thank you for bringing us, Ms. Kind. This was the best day ever.”

Vic kisses her forehead, and we repeat the routine with Ari.

Back in the hallway, Vic heads towards the library, but I call out, “You should really get some rest, Mr. Grimes.”

He pauses, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. “So, you’re taking care of me too, huh?”

I shrug. “Well, somebody has to. I’m officially the caretaker of this family.”

He gives a half-smile as a hint of gratitude flickers in his eyes. “Hey, I’m sorry for earlier. Pushing people away is sometimes easier than letting them in.” He admits.

A heartfelt laughter bubbles up from my throat. “It’s funny how different we are from one another. You push people away while I let too many in.”

A flicker of charm crosses his face. “Well, perhaps we can teach each other a few things. Goodnight, Ms. Kind.”

I watch him disappear into his library before retreating to my room, collapsing onto the plush bed, enveloped by the luxury that now surrounds me in my new home.

Chapter 11

A Grand Grimes Gesture – Kerry

Islept like a peaceful princess on plush pink pillows that smelled of clean linens and strawberries. My body feels renewed, and my mind refreshed. Though I have a long day ahead, I don’t want to get up. Waking up at 6 am is one thing I don’t miss about teaching, especially not after the best sleep of my life.

Nevertheless, I jump up and get ready for a day filled with lots of activities. Vic mentioned he’d be in the office early and leaving late moving forward, which is great for me because I’m going to wear whatever the hell I want. And today, it’s a super cute pink crop top and high-waisted jeans.

After getting ready, I head to the kitchen to prepare the girls’ breakfast, but upon entering, I’m stopped in my tracks by a beautiful spread already laid out on the kitchen island.

Whoa! I’ve never seen anything like this.

The island is covered in an opulent display of golden croissants beside an array of fresh berries and pancakes topped with vanilla whipped cream and drizzled maple syrup. On the opposite counter is a crystal pitcher filled with freshly squeezed orange juice next to chopped bacon, smoked salmon, capers, and cream cheese, ready to crown the toasted bagels. The food doesn’t even look real.