Page 55 of Holiday Hire

She confidently states, "Yes. Of course I can."

Good girl.

I toss Lance a smug look and then turn back to Phoebe. I ask, "Are you still interested in staying on the ranch as my kids' nanny? Or are you ready to go back to Pismo?" My chest tightens as I wait for her answer.

What if she says she wants to go back to Pismo with Mr. Douchebag?

Why do I care?

My kids love her. It's only about my kids.

Plus, I want to put Lance in his place.

Not that Phoebe's not a great nanny or hasn't shown her value, but sending this idiot back to Pismo and keeping Phoebe away from him is suddenly way more important than proving to my family that I don't need help.

She beams at me. "Of course I want to stay. I love it here. And I really enjoy helping the boys."

She loves it here.

I grin, directing it at Lance, and boast, "See, she's not going anywhere with you."

He grabs her hand. "Phoebe, don't be ridiculous."

Dad warns, "Now, hold on, son. She came here to do a job. She's clearly stated she wants to continue working. And I'll add that I believe she has a great situation here. My son pays her well. She has a roof over her head and food in her belly. Plus, she's great at what she does. So I believe she's made her decision and you should respect it."

He snaps, "Her commitment that was held over her head until I showed up?"

"Not true," I state, even though he's got a point.

Would I really have let her go?I think, then push the question away. I convince myself that some things are more important than proving your point, and this is one of them.

"Excuse me, but that's not how I see it," Lance argues.

Phoebe begs, "Lance, please. Let it go."

He can't. He shakes his head, insisting, "That's not a situation for her to be in. She shouldn't always be worried about losing her job."

I nod. "No, I agree. And that's why she doesn't have to worry about losing it. I just told you I'm keeping her on. Actually, Phoebe, you passed with flying colors. Congratulations. We're happy to have you here for the next few months. In fact, maybe when my mom and dad get back, we'll extend your employment into a permanent position."

Lance's eyes turn to slits.

Jagger chuckles, then declares, "I'm hungry. And this conversation is boring me. Can we talk about something else and eat?"

I reply, "I'm okay with it if Phoebe is good with her position here and moving forward?"

She nods, smiling bigger. "Yes, I'm happy. Thank you for keeping me on."

"Thank you for doing such a good job," I respond, then pick up my fork and dig into my potatoes.

Lance lowers his voice, commanding, "Phoebe, I need to talk to you. Alone."

She releases a frustrated breath. "Lance."

"Phoebe."

She sighs. "Can you all excuse us for just a moment?" She slides her chair back and gets up.

Mom offers, "Of course, dear. You and Lance take all the time you need."

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