Page 4 of Unravelling The Beast

"I completely understand."

Before I speak again, I make a mental note that the dad's name isArlo.

"So is Mr.."

I pause since I don’t even know his surname before continuing.

"Is Arlo going to attend this interview?"

She raises her head with a soft expression.

"Mr Hayes, sorry, I should have told you that. I have a dreadful baby brain at the moment."

We giggle together again until she carries on.

"Sorry, he isn't going to be joining us today. He is currently working, but he fully trusts me to choose the best nanny for the job. I discovered you on a website, and you seemed to be the perfect fit for what we're looking for considering all of your qualifications and experience."

I give her a sweet smile in return for her compliments.

"Now we just have to see how Cree reacts to you! So you’re okay with living here?”

I straighten my shoulders before giving an optimistic nod.

"I mean, sure, I've been looking for a long-term position for a while now. I've been trying to find one ever since I moved to New York a few months ago. I lived with a little girl last year when I was in California, and it was a wonderful experience, but unfortunately, they relocated to Canada, and I was unwilling to move so far away from my family.”

Before she responds softly, she offers me an understanding look.

"Oh no, that's such a shame when you bond too."

I pull my gaze away from hers and stare down at my hands.

"Exactly. It was heartbreaking, but we keep in touch often, and I hope to visit them all one day. The family was so warm and welcoming."

When I lift my eyes to look at her again, her face has sunk and turned pale, creating an anxious feeling that stirs deep within me.

"I'm sorry, did I say something wrong?"

She shakes her head slightly and looks away.

"Of course not. It's just that my brother is a bit of an ass. Please try not to have high expectations of him. My advice would be to keep your distance unless absolutely necessary and to concentrate solely on Cree."

I'm taken aback, but I appreciate her blunt honesty. Complete truthfulness is a lot better than having no idea what you're getting yourself into.

I give a slightly unsure nod when she looks my way before she leans in close and talks gently.

"He's still a little broken over Cree's mom, you know? He hasn't been the same since."

I give her an understanding look, and she pulls back as she studies me for a second before completely changing the subject.

“How old are you?”

“I’m twenty-five.”

She offers a quick nod.

"I did think you were young. Now, let's talk about money and the perks of the job."

As I pay close attention, I straighten up a little.

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