Page 66 of Nanny for the Bossy Billionaire

Finally, I felt anxious, because I know how strong-headed Reid can be. I know he means well and wants the best for Ethan, but it’s possible that he will let his anger get the best of him and he’ll wreck everything.

All these emotions are the reason I’ve been on edge ever since he left to meet with June. It’s also the reason I am very distracted at work. Even Ethan has noticed and has tried to draw my attention back to him several times. I’m grateful when I put him down for his nap, because at least for the next hour or so, I won’t have to feel guilty about neglecting him.

I am in his playroom tidying up his toys when my phone vibrates in my pocket. Nervous fingers retrieve it from my pocket in case it’s Reid.

I roll my eyes when I see who is calling. Frankly, I would rather talk to Reid right now than have the conversation I’m about to have.

I answer the phone. “Hi Mom.”

“Naomi, hello.”

“What’s up?”

“I just wanted to let you know that your father is throwing a cocktail party tomorrow. He expects you to be there. He’s announcing that he intends to hand over the company to your cousin Edward. He needs you there to show your support for the move. You know, to keep tongues from wagging.”

“Mom, I am not going to the party. I don’t care whether people’s tongues wag or not. It has no bearing on my life.”

“But it does on ours. It’s all anyone will be able to talk about if they think your father looked you over in favor of Edward.”

“Mom, I really don’t want to be a part of this. Everyone is going to come up to me wanting to know what’s going on.”

“Exactly, and you can explain to them that it was you who turned down your birthright. That it wasn’t your father nor I who took it away from you. It’s going to be an uncomfortable evening, but at the end of it news will spread and that’ll be that. If I had it my way, we wouldn’t be in this predicament, but here we are.”

“Can you for once not try to guilt me about my decision?”

“I’m not trying to guilt you. I’m just saying this problem is of your making. The least you can do is try and help us minimize the social damage. I know you hate our lifestyle, but it’s important to us. If word starts spreading that your father chose the nephew he doesn’t like all that much over his own daughter, we will become pariahs in this town. All I’m asking you to do is help us maintain our social standing.”

I sigh. “Fine, I will be there.”

“Good.”

“What time is it?”

“It starts at six but you really should be here by four. You can get dressed here. I’ve picked out a dress for you.”

Of course she has.

“Also, we can use the extra time to get our ducks in a row.”

“Okay, Mom, I’ll see you then.”

I hang up the phone and continue tidying up.

I really don’t want to be at that party tomorrow, but I’m choosing to look at the silver lining. At least this way my parents will finally get off my back about the company. Once they make the announcement publicly, even if I change my mind, their pride won’t let them take back the offer to Edward.

I’m almost done with Ethan’s playroom when the door opens a sliver and Reid pops his head in.

“There you are.” He walks into the room and closes the door behind him.

“Hey, you’re back.” I stand up straight, holding a stuffed animal in each hand.

“Yeah.”

“So… how was it?”

He shrugs. “I guess it was all right.”

“All right. That’s good, then?”

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