Page 29 of Nanny for the Bossy Billionaire

“Didn’t tell me what?”

“That since you decided to shame the family and fly the coop, your father has decided to take me under his wing and groom me to become CEO for when he decides to step down.”

I laugh. “That would never happen.”

“And yet it has.”

“Dad can’t stand you. Why would he want to groom you to be CEO of the company?”

“Because there are only two of us in our generation, and I’m the only one who wants the company. Although, like you said, your father isn’t fond of me, he’s big on family and would rather I take the reins of the company than some stranger.”

I haven’t spoken to Dad about any of this, but that does sound like him. Plus, Eddie wouldn’t gloat about something like this if it weren’t true.

I have half the mind to tell my parents that I’ve changed my mind and am now interested in taking on the company, just to wipe that smirk off Edwards face. But slapping down Edward isn’t a good enough reason to throw my dream away.

“Well, then I guess you are right… Congratulations.”

“You almost sound happy for me.”

“I am. This is clearly something you’ve always wanted, and I’m happy for you.”

The sneer drops from his face. I can tell he’s disappointed that I am not outraged.

Without another word, he turns around and walks off.

I can’t say I’m happy about who Dad has chosen to replace me, but it is what it is. I can’t dwell on it too much, because I have my own crises to worry about. Crises that I have to get back to tomorrow.

Oh God, how am I going to deal with what I have waiting for me back at home?

10

REID

Iam embarrassed to admit that when I woke up to find Naomi’s note, I panicked a little. She had slid it under my office door then disappeared. I thought she quit in the middle of the night and ran off. I was so relieved to find out she had just gone home for Thanksgiving a little early. I actually heaved a sigh of relief when I got all the facts.

Although I want to talk to her, I think she made the best decision. We need space from each other. We both need to think. So that when we finally talk, we can process everything while having our wits about us.

Knowing this hasn’t stopped me from missing Naomi. She’s only been here for a short while, but she’s woven herself into the fabric of this household. When she’s not around it’s almost as if I can feel her absence in the house.

I don’t know how to explain it, but the house is just more alive when Naomi is in it. I am happier. Ethan is happier. All the staff are happier. I would never describe Naomi as a sunshiny person, but somehow she manages to lift the spirits of everyone around her.

That’s what I’ve been missing ever since she left, which is why I am glad she’s coming back today. At least she’s supposed to come back today.

I’m so anxious for her arrival that I have practically spent the whole day perched on the chair under the upstairs hallway window that has a clear view to the driveway. So as to not seem as pathetic as I feel, I’ve brought a book with me to fool whoever passes by into thinking I want to sit in the sunlight and read.

It’s late evening when a cab drives up to the house. When the door opens and Naomi steps out, I am euphoric.

I shut my book and hurriedly make my way downstairs. I get to the door just as Naomi lets herself in.

When her azure eyes land on me she stops in her tracks. It’s the first time I’ve ever seen her unsure of herself.

“Hi,” I say.

She clears her throat. “Hey.”

I walk forward and reach for her suitcase. “Let me help you with that.”

She pulls it out of my reach. “I can manage.”

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