Page 44 of Protecting My Nanny

"Yeah, Shane," she says softly. "See you later."

At lunch, I'm at my desk, Oliver across from me, ready with his computer open. I try to push thoughts of Nicole aside, focusing on the meeting with one of our longest-standing clients. I need to be 100% focused, but Nicole's distant voice keeps echoing in my head.

I lean back in my office chair, take a deep breath, and dial Natalie Gates's number. The phone rings twice before she picks up, her voice sharp and to the point.

"Good morning, Shane," she greets, skipping the pleasantries. "I appreciate you calling. I wanted to discuss some concerns I have about the recent changes in your supply chain."

"Good morning, Natalie," I reply, keeping my tone as calm as possible. "I'm here with Oliver, and we wanted to personally address any concerns you might have. You're one of our long-standing clients, and your satisfaction is extremely important to us."

"Well, let me get straight to it, then," she says. "I understand you've cut ties with a trusted supplier due to some legal issues they're currently facing. I'm aware of the accusations against them, but isn't it a bit premature to sever a reliable partnership based on what could be just rumors?"

I anticipated this. "I understand your concern, Natalie, but the decision wasn't made lightly. The accusations against them are serious—neglect of oversight in their management, and there are credible reports linking their supply lines to unethical practices, including child labor. I can't risk Vesitech being associated with that."

Natalie's silence on the other end of the line makes the air in my office feel heavier. "That's a serious claim, Shane," she finally says. "But I have to wonder if it's wise to distance your company from a long-standing partner over unconfirmed allegations. Youknow as well as I do that rumors can be damaging, often more than the truth itself."

I know exactly the history she's referring to. Robert. The unspoken rumor that still haunts Vesitech. I've worked tirelessly to distance the company from that and rebuild trust and integrity, but this is the first time anyone has directly brought it up to me, especially in a context like this.

"I'm fully aware of how damaging rumors can be, Natalie," I say, choosing my words carefully. "But this isn't just about rumors. It's about the lack of oversight and the potential damage that the association could bring to Vesitech's reputation. We've vetted our new supplier thoroughly, and I'm confident they can meet our needs without compromising our values."

I signal Oliver, and he jumps in. "Ms. Gates, our new supplier has been recognized for their ethical practices. They've maintained a stellar reputation, and are known for their efficiency and reliability. We believe this transition will be not only smooth, but beneficial for all parties involved."

Natalie listens, but cuts him off. "Shane, I'd expect you to understand better than anyone the compromising situations companies can find themselves in because of rumors. I'll have to think this over carefully."

Her tone tells me she's unconvinced, and I can feel the tension tightening in my chest. Nicole's distant voice from earlier creeps back into my thoughts, and I wonder if I should have pushedharder and asked her more. But I know it's not the right time. I don't want to lose her, but I'm unsure how to keep her close.

"I understand, Natalie. I'm always here if you have more questions or need further reassurance. Your trust in us is something we don't take for granted."

"Thank you, Shane," she says, her voice measured. "I'll be in touch."

The call ends, and I set the phone down, running a hand through my hair. My thoughts are in disarray. Nicole's pulling away, and I'm helpless to stop it. I'm going to save this relationship, no matter what it takes—and hopefully keep Vesitech intact while I'm at it.

The scent of fresh-baked pizza greets me as I approach the front door of the estate. Inside, I hear Antonio's familiar voice, slightly muffled, delivering one of his passionate rants in the kitchen.

Walking in, I find him near the stove, his bright white chef's coat pristine under the overhead lights. He's in his element, commanding the room as always.

"There are two vital components to a perfect sauce," Antonio says, his intense gaze focused on Jaime. "You know what they are?"

Jaime, perched on a stool at the counter next to Nicole, thinks momentarily. "Hmmm... tomatoes and garlic?"

"Nope," Antonio responds with a knowing smile. "It's a gentle hand and a love for cooking."

As I enter, all eyes turn to me.

"Mr. Shane, welcome home," Antonio greets me warmly.

"Hey, Antonio," I reply, matching his enthusiasm. "Thanks for coming by."

"The pleasure is all mine, sir. I've been training my junior chef here on how to make real Italian food," he says, nodding toward Jaime.

"You think he's ready to work?" I joke.

"Sicuramente," Antonio replies in Italian, pride in his voice. "Such a fast learner. Just wait till you try his dessert."

"Yeah, Uncle Shane. Antonio showed me how to make cannoli," Jaime adds, his excitement palpable.

"Hey, I helped too," Nicole chimes in, her smile genuine and refreshing—a sight I've missed more than I realized.

"I can't wait," I say, sitting next to Jaime at the counter, feeling a warmth beyond the kitchen's heat.

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