Page 33 of Primal God

Today was a good day, and I’m glad about it.

I exit the nursery, the portable monitor in my hand. Isadora is fast asleep, too, but I want to make sure I have eyes on her while I unload my car.

My stomach grumbles as I make my way down the stairs. I didn’t eat with the kids because I was too busy making sure Isadora didn’t throw her food all over the kitchen, but I did set some food aside, even though I think the chef didn’t want me to. He said he didn’t want to have to wash my dishes later. Not that I asked him, nor would I even think of leaving them. He finally backed off after I assured him I would wash, dry, and put up my things.

I’ve just reached the landing when I spot Dr. Santos leaning against the wall. He’s half-hidden by the shadows, making him look entirely too sexy for my liking.

He says, “I was starting to think you forgot me, Ms. Wolfe.”

His deep voice makes my body come to life. How is it possible to react like this over a few simple words?

It takes a moment for my brain to catch up, and I realize that I should probably respond.

“Nope. Didn’t forget! The kids are down for the night.”

“This way, please.”

I follow him to his office, taking the same seat I sat in yesterday.

He goes behind his desk and opens the top drawer, pulling out a large envelope.

“Here is the credit card and the keys to the SUV. There’s also some cash in there, in case you want to get the kids a snack or something.”

I take the envelope, feeling how heavy it is. I have a good feeling our definition of cash for snacks isverydifferent.

“Thank you.”

“How did today go?”

“Great. They’re lovely children.”

His eyes flicker. “I’m glad. It’s been…difficult for them. We haven’t found a nanny who was the right fit and I fear it’s taking a toll on them.”

“Clara said as much,” I admit. “Not about it taking a toll, of course. Kids are resilient like that. She just mentioned not liking the other nannies.”

He cracks a small smile. “That’s Clara for you. My little informer.”

I’m about to make a joke when my stomach growls again. This time, it’s loud enough that I know he hears it.

“Oh my gosh. I’m so sorry about that.”

“Well, it’s not like it's something you have control over. Does this mean you didn’t eat with the kids?”

“I wasn’t sure if I was supposed to. I’ve worked in other households where the nanny wasn’t allowed to eat with the kids.”

He scowls. “Eat with them. I’d hate for your blood sugar to drop and you end up passing out.”

“Wow, that’s a very extreme and specific example. Did that happen?”

“With the second nanny.”

I know I shouldn’t, but I giggle. “I promise I’ll eat with them, then.”

There’s an intense look in his eyes.

“Good.”

The word rolls over me, making goosebumps lift on my skin.

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