Page 9 of The Widower's Nanny

3

Rachel

Since my first day fell on Friday, I have the weekend to get settled into the guesthouse. Preston had made it clear he likes to have the weekends with Lilly. So I am free to do what I want. I really don’t have anything to do, so I sleep in and it felt good. That is until I am awoken by a knock on my door.

I put a long cardigan sweater on over my T-shirt and pajama pants, then went to the door and call through it. “Who is it?”

“It’s Preston.”

Interesting.Why is he knocking on my door on a Saturday morning? Perhaps something came up, and he needs me.Open the door and find out.

I run a hand through my hair, then pull the sweater closed and open the door a few inches. “Hey.”

He takes a step back. “I woke you.”

“It’s okay. Is something wrong?”

“Um…yes. It’s Lilly.”

“Is she alright?”

He clears his throat. “She insists you come with us today on our outing.”

“Oh. Well, I don’t want to intrude on your weekend time.”

“I agree with you on that, but she’s currently having a bit of a breakdown over it. I don’t generally give into her when she goes fullCarrieon me.”

I smile. “Is she moving things with her mind?”

He laughs. “No. Maybe that was a bad analogy.”

“Well, good. Otherwise, I’d need to ask for more money.”

My comment stops him for a moment. “I’d appreciate it if you’d consider coming. I think it’s finally sinking in that her grandmother isn’t here, and she’s formed quite an attachment to you already.”

“Of course. Um…what type of outing are we talking about?”

“Hiking to the creek. It’s about a half-mile. Picnic lunch. Catching various creepy-crawlies.”

“Sounds fun.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. I’d love to come. As long as you’re okay with it.”

“It’s fine. You don’t mind the creepy-crawly aspect?”

I laugh. “Anything but snakes. I just need some time to get ready.”

“Will an hour work?”

“That’s perfect.”

“Thank you.”

“I’ll see you in an hour.”

I close the door.Okay. I’m spending the day with Lilly and her very good-looking dad. I can do this.I am having trouble picturing Preston catching bugs and playing in the creek. But maybe he’ll surprise me.

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