Page 23 of Nanny for the Doctor

“Come on. I’ll grab some extra blankets and pillows from the linen closet so we don’t have to worry about sharing.”

It’ll also help ensure I don’t wind up brushing against anything and losing my head.

We get the pullout ready for bed with two pillows and two blankets, and I lie down. Reed hesitates but eventually climbs in next to me.

Even though it’s big for a sofa bed, Reed still takes up most of the mattress, and his arm presses against mine as we both lie on our backs, staring up at the ceiling.

“I’m glad you came to the party. You don’t go out and have fun much. And I know Henry enjoyed it.”

I don’t take my eyes off the vent above me, focusing on the pattern the grates make.

“Me too. It’s…work is demanding.” Reed sighs. “Henry had a blast. He didn’t want to leave. Between you and the other kids, this was basically heaven for him.”

“And I know Johnny was super pumped that you could come.”

Reed turns over onto his side facing me. “It was great to hang with him again. And damn, I didn’t know he and Stevie were getting so serious.”

I mimic the position change, rolling onto my side so I can face him and talk. It’s like being at a sleepover.

But I never wanted to kiss anyone at the ones I used to have. That’s not the case right now.

“Yeah. They’re great together. I know they’ll be really happy. And with me around to help, you’ll be able to see Johnny more often, which will totally make his day.”

“Having you around has done much more than just allow me to see Johnny. Not that visiting with him isn’t reason enough.”

“Thanks.”

The sofa bed is less than comfortable, and I adjust again, trying to find a spot for my hips. Looking back up, I’m a bit closer to Reed than before.

“I mean it, Mae. I’m so lucky to have you around, and Henry adores you.”

“He’s a great kid. I’m glad I get to spend time with him.”

“I know he loves hanging out with you. If today weren’t evidence enough. Seeing him so happy and playful is amazing. I almost forgot kids could be like that.”

A sting radiates through my ribs as I consider how hard it must be to be a single parent.

Raising kids is work enough, but to do it alone? That’s a lot.

“I really like being there to help. Hanging out with Henry is a blast, if rough on the knees.”

I briefly consider telling Reed thatheshould be spending more time with him, too, but now’s not the time. Plus, he did bring him out tonight, which is a step in the right direction.

I move onto my back again, but a spring digs into my spine, and I know I can’t stay in this position for long.

Maybe I can just wait till Reed’s asleep? I don't know what I'll do if I keep staring into those hazel eyes.

A shuddering exhale slides out. This was a bad idea. I shouldn’t have asked Reed to join me.

It’s way too tempting.

A loud groan comes from the bed as Reed shifts, and I try to move back where I was and give him some space.

“Sorry. This thing isn’t super comfortable.” He chuckles quietly.

“Maybe you would have been better on the floor.” I smile at the ceiling.

“It certainly would have been quieter.”

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