Page 15 of Nanny for the Bikers

I take a deep breath, steeling myself for his reaction. “Shadow has to approve of you.”

“Who’s Shadow?”

“My dog.”

For a moment, Clay just stares at me, his expression unreadable. Then, a laugh bursts from his lips, deep and rich. “You’re serious?”

I nod, my gaze unwavering. “As serious as you hiring me on as a nanny within a minute of meeting me. Shadow’s opinion is non-negotiable.”

To my surprise, Clay doesn’t argue. Instead, he shrugs, a smile still lingering on his face. “Fair enough. Lead the way.”

I turn, my heart pounding as I make my way towards the fenced-off dog park where Shadow waits, sitting at the gate patiently, tail wagging when he sees me coming his way.

“Don’t tell me, it’s the…”

“Big black dog?” I finish for him. “It is.”

“Figures.”

I unlatch the gate, stepping inside with Clay close behind.

“Hey, buddy,” I murmur, kneeling down to scratch behind Shadow’s ears. Shadow tilts his head, and I stand, gesturing for Clay to come closer.

“Let him sniff you,” I instruct, watching as Clay extends his hand, palm up.

Shadow approaches cautiously, his nose twitching as he takes in Clay’s scent. The seconds stretch on, tension building in the air as we both wait for Shadow’s verdict.

“And what exactly does this prove?” Clay asks.

“Shadow is the best judge of character there is.”

Then, just as I’m beginning to think this was all a terrible idea, Shadow’s tail starts to wag. He leans forward, his tongue darting out to lick Clay’s hand.

A grin spreading across my face. “Well, would you look at that? You passed the test.”

Clay chuckles, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he looks down at Shadow. “I’m honored.”

Clay’s smile fades slightly as he glances at me, a hint of concern in his eyes. “I’ve never had a dog in my house before,” he admits, his hand still resting on Shadow’s head. “Does she have to come inside because I can…”

“Shadow is a he.” I bristle at the implication, my protective instincts flaring. “And he goes where I go,” I state firmly, my voice leaving no room for argument. “That’s non-negotiable.”

Clay holds up his hands in a placating gesture. “I understand,” he assures me.

“Shadow’s a good boy. He won’t cause any problems.”

“You’ll keep him clean?”

“Always.”

Clay nods, seeming to accept my word. “Alright then,” he says, a hint of playfulness creeping into his tone. “I guess we have a deal.”

Just as we’re about to shake on it, Piper begins to cry, her face scrunched up in distress.

Clay is by her side in an instant, his brow furrowed with concern as he lifts her into his arms. “Shh, it’s okay, baby girl,” he murmurs, bouncing her gently. “She’s hungry, I think,” he announces, glancing at his watch.

“What time does she usually eat?” I ask.

“Now?” I frown at his questioning tone. Doesn’t how know? “Do you have a bottle?”

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