Page 57 of A Whole New Play

I lower my hand and try to keep the awkwardness from my voice when I say, “Oh.”

Smooth, Valerie. Real smooth.

I clear my throat. “That’s a good thing. Right?”

Both of their little heads nod.

Andy speaks up, “Dad likes you. And we like you, too. We’re glad you’re our nanny.”

Abby nods in agreement.

My heart swells. “I’m glad I’m your nanny, too.”

I mean it.

Despite the recent drama and smoldering chemistry I have to tamp down daily, I feel very lucky to have landed this job. I enjoy spending time with the twins, and it’s nice to feel like I have a purpose while figuring out what my next step is. The only downside is I haven’t taken advantage of my new work-life balance like I should.

With Megan back in Houston, most of my free evenings are spent binge-watching a television show alone in my room. That was true at my dad’s condo, and it’s true at Carter’s, too.

Other than my parents, I haven’t spent time with anyone in the area. Maybe I should change that. Going out could provide a much-needed distraction from my hunky boss and the feelings that warm my chest every time he turns those warm brown eyes on me.

The edge of my phone illuminates. It doesn’t make a sound, but I know I received a text message.

I consider ignoring it, but when I admit to myself that hanging up on Carter had been immature, I swallow my pride and turn the device over. I tap the screen and open Carter’s message.

I’m going to pretend like you didn’t just hang up on me.

I wait for him to send more. Part of me expects him to call back when I don’t immediately respond, but several seconds pass without another notification.

Maybe he’s distracted with preparing for the second half.

As much as I tried not to focus on the linebacker while watching the game, it was impossible not to notice how well he’s playing tonight.

The last thing he needs is to be distracted with worry for his kids because his nanny decided to act juvenile.

Sorry. That was childish of me.

There’s no point denying it.

Three flashing dots immediately appear on the screen. I guess he’s not busy preparing for the next half, after all.

Don’t worry about it. Is everything good with the twins?

A fresh wave of guilt washes over me.

Carter could’ve easily reprimanded me for my petty behavior. Or, at the very least, he could’ve demanded an explanation. Instead, he’s letting it slide and choosing to focus on what matters to him: his kids.

“Valerie, it’s your turn.”

I look up at Andy’s voice and see he and Abby have five cards fanned out in their hands, watching me expectantly. I scan my cards quickly and then ask Abby for a seven.

“Go fish.”

I take a card from the pile and half pay attention to the game as I pick up my phone and reply.

Yes. We’re playing Go Fish. Good idea having activities here to keep them entertained.

What can I say? I’m a good dad.

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