Page 58 of Primal God

“I came to hear Nanny W’s bedtime story.”

Clara says, “You’ll like it. It’s about a family of ducks that needs a momma to help them get ready for the day.”

“I’m sure I’ll love it.” His gaze lands on me. “Nanny W?”

“Right.” I clear my throat. “Once upon a time…”

By the time I finish the book, Diego is fast asleep, and Clara is nearly there, too.

“Papai?”

“Yes, Clara?”

“You really should marry Nanny W. We need a momma…” Her voice drifts off as her eyes close.

Dimitri stares at me, making me feel hot and bothered. Shit. I need to get out of here without another interaction with him!

“Would you mind grabbing the laundry basket from their closet while I put away the book?”

His eyebrows lift in surprise, but he nods. “Of course.”

As soon as he disappears into the closet, I shove the book on the shelf and rush from the room, retreating to the safety of my room. Just to be safe, I lock the door and go to the bathroom, locking that door, too. I hear a soft knock from the hallway, but I ignore it. It’s not even a matter of cowardice. No, this is self-preservation. Because if Dimitri Santos corners me alone, there’s no telling what will happen.

I manage to avoid Dimitri over the next two days, which honestly felt like a full-time job on its own. He’s gone out of his way to be at dinner and even bath time. It’s like he’s toying with his prey, and I don’t know how long I can keep escaping.

“Nanny W! Look at me!”

I look up in time to see Clara jump into the pool and clap.

“Good job, kiddo!”

It’s a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The twins are swimming in the pool while Isadora and I sit under an umbrella near the pool. Adam and I are texting, which I’m only doing because he won’t be around tonight.

I glance at the house. Dimitri hasn’t been around today, either. I should be glad, but all I can do is wonder where he’s at.

Adam

Would I sound desperate if I said I’m thinking about blowing off my event tonight so I can see you?

Not desperate, but didn’t you say your dad was looking forward to spending time with you?

Damn. You’re right. Can’t disappoint the old man again.

Besides, he’ll never let me get out of this meeting. There’s a lot riding on a contract he wants signed.

Sounds serious.

It is, but I don’t care. All I can think about is that in twenty-four hours, I get to see you. Is it too forward to say I hope I get to kiss you, too?

No. I’ve been thinking about it, too.

You have? Damn. That just made my day!

Yay?

Haha. You know what I mean.

I do. I’m really looking forward to the date.

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