Page 23 of Hearts Aweigh

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“‘Promises to provide adequate compensation to the party of the second part—’”

“You.”

She clamped her lips shut and read the remainder of the document in silence. “Translation, please?” she asked as she set the sheet on the table.

Spencer’s brows dipped. “This is my list of expectations, specifying what your duties will be while you care for my daughter, and how I will compensate you.”

Abby laughed. “Monarch Cruises provides our nanny valet service. The extra cost will be added to the bill and charged to your credit card at the end of the trip. Easy-peasy, lemon squeezy.”

“Nothing in this world is ‘easy-peasy.’” He repeated her phrase like it was a foreign language. “The cruise line pays your salary, but I assume you’re allowed to accept tips for a job well done. I’ve missed the last two years of my daughter’s life, and I must ensure she is receiving the best care. In this document,you’ll find my requirements for you and the remuneration I’m willing to offer in return.”

“Is this a legally binding contract?”

“No. But I find that an employee performs better when they are clear on what is expected of them. Naturally, you’re free to negotiate any terms.”

Abby released a long-suffering sigh and picked up the document. She scanned the items he’d bulleted.

Spencer had made sure everything was spelled out. Bedtime. Dietary restrictions.

Her forehead crinkled. “This says Madeleine must spend at least two hours a day on an educational activity.”

Spencer nodded. “We’re following the already-established schedule her mother used. I’m trying to make this transition period for Madeleine as easy as possible.”

“Twohours?”

He nodded again.

Abby tilted her head. “But … you’re on vacation.”

Spencer threaded his fingers together and placed them on the table. “I do not consider this a vacation in any way, shape, or form. My goal is to convince Daisy in the shortest amount of time possible to return home where she belongs. While we are stuck on this ship, I will continue to do my job to the best of my ability, and I expect my daughter to do the same.”

“She’s five.” Abby glanced over at Madeleine and whispered, “She doesn’t have a job.”

“Of course she does. Her job is to prepare herself for kindergarten next year.”

“Ah, yes.” Abby sat back in her chair. “That kindergarten is a real killer. Will you hire her a tutor?”

“Please avoid the flippancy. Beyond those two hours, she’ll have the remainder of the day to play.” He unfolded his hands and tapped the contract. “Is there anything you want to tweak?”

“A few thoughts come to mind.”

He’d anticipated as much. Spencer passed a pen to Abby. She took it and added three bullet points to the list of stipulations. Theplink-plink-plinkof the piano continued in the background while he waited for her demands. She slid the paper across to Spencer.

He read her additions, and his eyes shot to hers. “I don’t understand.”

“You made sure to outline exactly what was expected of myself and Madeleine.” Abby pointed at him. “I added whatyourduties will be.”

Spencer read aloud. “‘The party of the first part promises to spend at least forty-five minutes a day with his daughter in a frivolous, noneducational activity.’”

“I was generous. It really should be an hour, but you said you’re busy.”

He read again. “‘The party of the first part will smile at his daughter at least three times a day.’”

“Again, generous. It should be three times an hour with an adorable girl like Maddie. But you don’t smile much, so I’m easing you into it.”

He looked to the piano, where Madeleine pressed the keys. “I … I smile at my daughter.”

“Of course you do. I just meant you could amp up the frequency.”