Page 54 of Nanny for the Bikers

I hesitate, my fingers hovering over the envelope. A part of me feels conflicted about accepting money from them, especially now that our relationship is evolving into something more personal.

Teller seems to sense my hesitation, and he gently presses the envelope into my hand. “You’ve earned this, Ayla. Your work with Piper is invaluable to us.”

I nod slowly, my fingers closing around the envelope. “Thank you. It’s just... with everything that’s happening between us, I feel a little strange taking money from you.”

Teller’s expression softens, and he takes a step closer to me. “I understand, but please don’t let our personal relationship interfere with your job. You deserve to be compensated for your hard work.”

His words reassure me, and I tuck the envelope into my pocket. “Thank you.”

He looks back at me with a curious expression. “By the way, Ayla, I noticed your birthday is coming up soon.”

My eyes widen in surprise, and I tilt my head, trying to recall if I’d ever mentioned my birthday to him. “How did you know that? I don’t remember telling you.”

Teller shifts his weight, a hint of discomfort crossing his features. “I conducted a background check on you when you first started working for us.”

A wave of shock and anger washes over me, followed by a twinge of betrayal. “You did what? Without my consent?!”

He takes a deep breath, his gaze apologetic. “I know it seems like an invasion of privacy, and I understand why you’re upset. But I can’t leave Piper with just anyone. I had to make sure you weren’t crazy.”

I bite my lip, trying to process this new information. On one hand, I feel violated knowing that Teller dug into my personal life without my knowledge. But on the other hand, I can understand their need to protect Piper.

“I... I get it,” I say slowly, my voice tinged with a mix of emotions.

“Is there anything special you’d like to do to celebrate?”

“What?” I frown.

“Your birthday.”

Oh right.

I avert my gaze, my fingers fidgeting with the hem of my shirt. The mention of my birthday stirs up a well of bittersweet memories. “I don’t really celebrate my birthday,” I admit quietly. “My mother... she often forgot about it.”

A flicker of sadness crosses Teller’s face, and he reaches out to gently squeeze my shoulder. “I’m sorry to hear that, Ayla. But I want you to know that we won’t forget. You’re important to us, and we want to make your birthday special.”

His words send a warm flutter through my chest, and I find myself fighting back the sudden sting of tears. It’s been so long since anyone has cared enough to make a fuss over my birthday.

“I... I don’t know what to say,” I manage, my voice slightly shaky with emotion. “Thank you, Teller. That means a lot to me.”

He smiles, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “You deserve to be celebrated, Ayla. Take some time to think about what you’d like to do, and we’ll make it happen.”

I nod, a tentative smile tugging at my lips. The idea of actually looking forward to my birthday for once feels foreign, but exciting.

Before I can fully process the emotions swirling within me, Teller suddenly pulls me close, his strong arms enveloping me in an unexpected embrace. My breath catches in my throat as his lips find mine, the kiss both tender and electrifying.

He breaks away before I can kiss him back, his forehead resting gently against mine as he whispers, “I’ll see you soon, beautiful.” With one last lingering kiss, he reluctantly pulls away and heads towards his vehicle.

I wrap my arms around myself, watching him go and savoring the lingering warmth of Teller’s embrace. The anticipation for the evening ahead builds within me, a delicious mix of nervousness and excitement.

29

AYLA

The opening credits of the romantic comedy flicker across the TV screen, bathing the living room in a soft glow. I nestle into the plush couch cushions, savoring the rare moment of peace and quiet. Shadow is curled up in my room and Piper’s gentle snores echo from down the hall.

“Seriously, Ayla? A chick flick?” Kip groans from the other end of the sectional.

I shoot him a playful glare. “Hey, you said I could pick. Besides, this one’s a classic. Now pass the popcorn, will you?”

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