Page 35 of Nanny for the Bikers

“I’m not your ex.”

I bite my bottom lip and swallow.

Clay’s gaze lingers on me, his eyes searching mine with an intensity that steals my breath. “What kind of man do you envision yourself with, Ayla?” His voice is low, almost intimate. “Someone who challenges you? Supports you? Makes you feel cherished and adored?”

I swallow hard, my heart pounding against my ribs. It’s a loaded question, one that demands an honest answer. And yet, as I meet Clay’s steady gaze, I find myself wanting to bare my soul to him. To share my deepest hopes and fears, my secret yearnings and hidden dreams.

“Someone kind,” I whisper, my voice barely audible over the roar of my own pulse. “Someone who sees me—really sees me—and accepts me for who I am. Flaws and all.” I pause, gathering my courage. “Someone who makes me feel safe. Valued. Loved.”

Clay nods slowly, his expression thoughtful. “You deserve that, Ayla. You deserve someone who will cherish you, protect you, love you unconditionally.” His hand twitches at his side, as ifhe’s fighting the urge to reach for me. “Someone who will stand by your side, no matter what life throws your way.”

Before I can respond, the front door slams open, startling us both. Kip strides into the room, his eyes lighting up as he spots me. “Hey, beautiful,” he greets me, planting a quick kiss on my cheek. “Something smells amazing in here. Mind making me a plate while I grab Piper?”

Why is he acting like we’re some kind of married couple?

That’s still better than trying to figure out where Clay was taking our conversation…

I force a smile, my mind still reeling from my conversation with Clay. “Sure thing,” I reply, my voice a little too bright. “Just give me a sec.”

As Kip scoops up Piper, cooing softly to her, I busy myself with preparing his meal. But even as I ladle pasta onto his plate, my thoughts are a tangled mess of confusion and longing. What am I doing? How do I feel about Clay?

It’s clear he has a crush on me.

With Kip settled at the table, I find myself gravitating back towards Clay, drawn to his calming presence like a moth to a flame. But as I sit down beside him, I can’t help but feel a pang of guilt. The memory of Teller’s lips on mine, the heat of his touch, the whispered promises we shared... it all comes rushing back, leaving me breathless and aching.

What would Clay do if he found out?

19

AYLA

Piper’s delighted giggle fills the hallway as I twirl her around, peppering her chubby cheeks with kisses. The steady rhythm of hammers and the swish of paintbrushes form a lively symphony in the background.

“Who’s the cutest little munchkin? You are!” I coo, nuzzling Piper’s soft curls. She grabs my face with her tiny hands, babbling happily.

Kip glances up from where he’s expertly fitting the pale hardwood planks together, a boyish grin spreading across his face. “Careful, or this adorable scene might distract us from all the work we’re doing for the little princess.”

“I think some distraction is allowed, considering how hard you boys are working.” I shoot him a playful wink, bouncing Piper on my hip as I survey the nursery taking shape before my eyes. The soft buttercup walls Clay is painting bring a warm glow to the room, perfectly matching the serene atmosphere I envisioned.

As Piper starts to fuss, I gently rock her, inhaling her sweet baby scent. The tender moment fills my heart with a longing I dare not name.

A wistful sigh escapes Teller’s lips as he wipes sweat from his brow. “If I’d known I’d be working a second shift here, I might’ve called in sick.”

Kip playfully punches Teller’s shoulder. “Come on, man. A little extra elbow grease never hurt anyone. Besides, we’re almost done.” He surveys the room with a satisfied nod.

I can’t help but beam at their progress. The hardwood floors gleam, a perfect canvas for the plush rug and cozy furnishings to come. “It looks amazing, guys.” Pride swells in my chest, seeing my vision come to life.

An idea sparks. “You know, we should really think about replacing the carpet in the living room too. It would tie everything together so nicely.” I raise a hopeful eyebrow, testing the waters.

Clay chuckles, shaking his head. “Slow down there, Ayla. One room at a time.” He gestures to the paintbrush in his hand. “Let’s finish this project before we start planning the next one.”

I concede with a good-natured shrug. He’s right, of course. My enthusiasm tends to get ahead of me sometimes. “Fair enough. I just can’t help imagining how great it would look.”

Teller stretches, his back popping audibly. “Well, if we’re going to keep this renovation train rolling, I’m going to need some sustenance.” He looks at me expectantly.

Realization dawns. “I’ll make you all a snack.”

I carefully settle Piper into her crib for a nap. She fusses momentarily, but a gentle lullaby and a few soft strokes of her cheek soon lull her to sleep.

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