Page 16 of Bestie's Bossy Billionaire Brother

“Catherine, I can guarantee you I wasnotthe problem tonight,” he says, irritation flickering in his eyes. “How did this even become about my date? I think you’re deflecting because you’re afraid.”

I narrow my eyes on him. “Afraid of what?”

“A stable job that has nothing to do with Jason,” he informs me. “I might be a tyrant, but you love drama.”

“I dislike drama very much,” I fight back.

Oliver rolls his eyes. “Okay, fine. Maybe you don’t like drama, but you certainly have a way of creating it.”

I feel a flash of anger at his words. “I don’t create drama,” I snap. “And I don’t need your job offer. I’ll find something else on my own.”

I turn on my heels, ready to storm out, but Oliver’s hand catches my arm before I can step away.

“Catherine, wait,” he urges.

I peer down at his hand wrapped around my wrist. For some strange reason, it sends a shiver up my spine.

“What?”

“I didn’t mean it like that. I’m sorry,” he says, releasing my hand.

I shake my head. “It’s not just about the job offer, Oliver. I mean, I could use the money—”

“So, why are you resisting?” he asks. “I’ll pay you enough so you can save up and open your own studio. With my salary, you can do it a lot sooner than any other job.”

I like the sound of that but try not to show it.

I look away from him and wander over to the window, lost in thought. Oliver steps closer, placing a hand on my shoulder.

“Catherine, talk to me.”

I meet his gaze. “What would the job entail?”

He details the routine of getting Alice ready for school, dropping her off, picking her up, taking her to her activities, and making her dinner while she does her homework.

“You’d have eight hours of free time on the weekdays while she’s in school,” he says, trying to sweeten up the deal.

I nod.

“I’d also need you to travel occasionally with us on business trips to help take care of Alice,” he adds.

I bite my lip hesitantly. “I really don’t know if I’m the right fit, Oliver.”

He takes a deep breath. “Look, Catherine, I know we’ve had our differences in the past, but I could really use your help. Please, just think about my offer.”

I nod again, still unsure.

“You could even live with us,” he suggests. “That could help you save money.”

My eyes widen. “Live with you? That’s a little weird, don’t you think?”

He shakes his head. “No, it wouldn’t be weird. You’d have your own bedroom and everything.”

“Yeah, but what about when you bring dates home?”

He laughs. “I never bring women back to the house,” he assures me. “Besides, I don’t plan to date right now. If not for me, then take the job offer for Alice.”

“Fine,” I say. “I’ll do it for Alice. I’ll be your nanny.”