Page 21 of Nanny for the Bikers

“I’m assuming both of you will be under this account?” the banker asks.

“Both of us?” I repeat, frowning.

She smiles. “Most of our married couples like to open up joint accounts.”

I can feel my cheeks heating up. “Oh, we’re not married!” I correct her quickly. “He’s just a…” I trail off for a moment, trying to think of what to introduce him as…boss sounds kind of cringy. “Friend.”

“Oh!” the woman exclaims. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to assume. The two of you do make such a fine couple.”

I swallow and purse my lips but don’t response.

Thankfully, she doesn’t say anything else about it. She hands me a folder of paperwork, and the next thirty minutes are spent filling out forms, providing identification, and answering questions I never thought I’d have to deal with at twenty-two.

Finally, we finish up the paperwork, and the banker returns with a bright smile. “There you go, Ms. Parks. Your new account is all set up. Here’s your debit card and PIN.”

I take the glossy card, running my thumb over the raised letters, relief washing over me. “Thank you so much.”

“And for you, sir?” the banker asks, turning her attention to Clay.

“I’d like to make a withdrawal, please. Fifteen hundred in cash. Clay Abbott.” He takes out his ID and slides it over for her to look at.

The banker nods, tapping away at her keyboard. “Certainly. I’ll just need to grab that from the back. Give me one moment.” She disappears through a door behind the counter, leaving Clay and me alone.

“So,” Clay begins, his tone light and teasing. “Quick to clarify that we’re not together, huh?” His eyes dance with mischief.

I shrug, trying to play it cool despite the heat rising in my cheeks. “Well, we’re not, are we?” I meet his gaze, an eyebrow raised in challenge.

“True,” he concedes, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “I just figured, with how quick you were to deny it, you must have a boyfriend or something.”

I laugh, the sound a little too loud in the quiet bank. “No, no boyfriend.” I shake my head, a wry smile on my lips. “Relationships aren’t exactly my top priority right now.”

Clay nods, his expression thoughtful. “I get that. Sometimes you just need to focus on yourself, you know?”

“Exactly.” I’m surprised by the understanding in his voice. “I’ve got enough on my plate without adding a guy to the mix…well, a guy that isn’t my boss.”

He chuckles, the sound warm and rich. “Well, their loss.” His eyes meet mine, and for a moment, I’m lost in their depths.

The banker returns, a stack of crisp bills in her hand. “Here you are, Mr. Abbott. Fifteen hundred, as requested.” She hands the money to Clay with a smile.

“Thanks.” He hands me the money, slipping his wallet out to put his ID away. I quickly put the money in my purse. I’ve never had so much cash in my hands before and I don’t want to lose it. “Ready to go?”

I nod, gathering up my new debit card and the folder of account information.

As we head towards the door, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Opening this account and taking control of my finances - it’s a small step, but an important one to the new life I want to live.

As we step out into the sunlight, Clay’s shoulder brushes against mine. A tingle runs down my spine at the contact, and I glance up at him, trying to read his expression.

“I still can’t believe you don’t have a boyfriend.”

I roll my eyes, but I can’t help the smile that tugs at my lips. “Believe it, buddy. I’m flying solo these days.”

“Hm.”

As we walk towards the truck, I bump my shoulder against his playfully. Two can play at this game. “Why you offering to fill the position?” The words slip out before I can stop them.

Clay’s eyes widen in surprise, but he doesn’t say anything; just lets a slow grin spread across his face.

As we settle into the truck, I can’t help but sneak a glance at Clay. His profile is strong, his jaw clenched in concentration as he starts the engine. I wonder what he’s thinking if he felt that same spark I did.

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