Page 9 of Curvy Nanny for the Cougar
“Duly noted,” I say, grinning as I toss my duffel in the car and give her a mock salute. “Bagels or death.”
Chapter 4
Dane
As I drive off toward the Supernatural Summit, I glance in the rearview mirror just in time to see Alex getting mobbed by his cousins with delighted shrieks.
Laughter, mud, and shrieking—just what a five-year-old needs.
As for me? I’ve got work to do.
But her words echo in my chest long after I leave. “Don’t worry, Dane. You’ll find your happily ever after someday.”
Yeah. Someday.
Maybe.
But probably not today.
I should be relieved.
I am, mostly.
But as I slide into my car and head toward the East Coast Supernatural Summit, I can’t shake the feeling that something’s off.
Not with Alex. He’s in good hands or paws.
In fact, my phone buzzes right then, and I look down to see a slew of pictures sent to me by Lena of Alex and his cousins making s’mores outside.
I grin and my chest feels tight as I take in my son’s sparkling hazel eyes and crooked smile. Everything I do is for him.
And with that thought, I send a thumbs up and happy face emoji back.
This feeling of discontent I’m struggling with—it’s me.
Lately, single life has started to feel less like freedom and more like a really quiet echo chamber.
Just me and my kid.
No one to talk to after bedtime.
No one to laugh at my terrible jokes—or to share a naughty one with.
No one to share a meal with who doesn’t think ketchup belongs on everything.
It wasn’t always like this.
I used to like being alone.
Hell, I was damn good at it.
But now?
Now, it feels like I’m not just single. I’m disconnected.
Which is ridiculous.
I’ve got purpose.
