Page 11 of The Rogue

“Curiosity is good, but it must be channeled appropriately.”

I frown at that. “In other words, you’d steer him away from being himself?”

Where are these people coming from? Really? Is someone playing a practical joke on me?

Margaret’s smile doesn’t reach her eyes as she regards my question. “Children need to understand their place. If his questions andcuriosityfit into our activity, then I'll address it.”

She reminds me of the strict nanny Jackson had last fall. She was an acceptable temporary solution. But I knew Jackson didn’t like her. Only kept her around because I was desperate.

The last straw was at Jackson’s birthday party where a certain bartender went rogue and nearly killed the woman with alcohol poisoning.

Okay, so maybe Tessa knewexactlyhow much to give her to knock her out for a few hours, but she had no right to mess with an innocent woman like that.

Even if the innocent womandidyell at my son at his own birthday party in front of all his friends because he was having too much sugar.

Damn spitfire always causing trouble in this town.

I still remember the fierceness in Tessa's eyes when I confronted her. There was no remorse, just anger—but not raging anger—it was…protective.

For a kid she barely knew.

Hard to believe someone as destructive as Tessa Banks has a heart—but I won’t be fooled by a beautiful woman again.

Jackson’s mom was plenty for that. And I’m one wrong move away from a restraining order against Lilly.

“Thank you, Margaret, I’m afraid you and Jackson won’t see eye to eye on—well anything—but I appreciate your time.”

She blinks. “Mr. Reeves, I didn’t respond to your first ad three weeks ago—the one that just asks for experience, references, and immediate availability. Then I saw an updated version a few days ago—the one where you added ‘not looking for a real-life love story’. I can only imagine the type of candidates you’ve been getting up 'til now and I can assure you, that won’t be the case with me. You’redesperateto find a caretaker for your son—I’m more than qualified. You are clearly not looking for a woman looking to play wife—neither am I. But I will make sure your son has what you haven’t been offering him—a gooddependablehome.”

I perk my brow. Color me impressed. I’m about to extend an offer on the spot when my father cuts me off—a hard edge in his tone.

“Lady, you heard my son. You’re not fit for Jackson. Thanks for stopping by.” He points sharply to the exit.

She humphs and pushes to her feet. “Good luck, Mr. Reeves.”

Dad takes her seat as I stare in astonishment. He rubs his temples. “Please tell me there’s another one.”

“I was about to offer her the job.”

He looks at me like I’m crazy. “Because she was bullying you into it. The same way she’ll bully your son into seeing it her way. Is that what you want for Jackson?”

I drag a hand through my hair. “Fuck, you’re right. I’m losing my mind.”

“I said keep an open mind—not punish the kid.”

I stare blurry-eyed at my list. “There’s one more tonight, but I’m not sure I have the energy. She’s from out of town.” I check my watch. “Told her to meet me here at six.”

A woman by the name of Bessie. She sounded nice enough on the phone. Sweet, actually. Early fifties if I had to guess. She’ll be my last for the day before I leave to pick up Jackson from Noah’s and head home.

Dad stands. “Leave no stone unturned. I’ll get dinner started for you and Jackson.”

“Thanks, Dad.”

“A fresh pot of coffee too. Looks like you might need it. And one for your candidate since she’s coming in from out of town. Where from again?”

I shrug. “I didn’t ask.” I look at my phone to check the area code, then flip it back to him. “Familiar?”

Dad frowns. “Think that’s Summer Hill. It’s about two hours from here.” His eyes flick to mine with doubt. “Let’s hope it’s not a wasted trip to Hideaway Springs.”

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