Page 127 of Fall of a Kingdom

“Might as well make it three,” Julie added.

“Have a seat,” I said.

The three of them perched on the couch like three little swallows sharing a branch. They were clearly uncomfortable. Whether it was because I’d offered them a drink or I intimidated them, I didn’t know.

I deftly opened a bottle of red. I gave them their glasses and then poured myself a scotch. I sat on the couch directly opposite them, grasping the crystal like a lifeline.

“What I’m about to tell you requires your utmost discretion,” I began.

“We’ve already signed NDAs,” Bella said. “When you hired us…”

I nodded. “I know. This isn’t like that…this is different.” I took a deep breath and plowed forward. “A few days ago, I was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor. I’ve had a seizure already and I’ve been advised by my physician that it’s not safe for me to care for my children the way I used to any longer.”

Their stunned faces peered back at me. Julie was the first to gain her composure. “That’s why you’ve been having me carry and feed Piper. You haven’t held her…”

I nodded.

“Does Mr. Campbell know?” Bella asked.

“Not yet. When he gets home tomorrow, I’ll tell him. The reason I’m sharing this with you now is because I need your help.”

“We’ll help,” Suze exclaimed. “Anything you need. For as long as you need it.”

“I need the three of you here. Full time. I need you to move into the main house. You’ll be compensated accordingly.” The young women were fresh out of college, had no long-term boyfriends, and shared the carriage house behind the manor.

“You already are more than generous,” Bella said. “I’m not even concerned about that.”

I smiled. “Word of advice? When someone offers to pay you for your time, don’t balk. Accept it.”

Bella’s cheeks flamed with heat and then she nodded.

“There are guest rooms on the third floor,” I said. “You’re welcome to any of them.”

Julie looked at Bella and Suze. “You guys go pack first. I’ll stay here and then we can swap out.”

I reached into my pocket and grabbed the keys to my Mercedes. I tossed them to Suze. “Take my car. Don’t involve Angus. You’re the only members of the staff that know now, and this has to stay between us until I tell my family.”

“Don’t worry, Angus is probably asleep in front of the telly,” Suze commented with a wry smile.

I took a risk, telling the three young nannies the truth about my situation, but I was backed into a corner. I needed their help and tomorrow, Flynn would know the truth.

“Thank you for sharing this with us, Mrs. Campbell,” Julie said softly.

“I’ll have a lot to go over with you over the next few days. At some point, I will be hiring private nurses, but that won’t stop you from seeing me at my worst. This is going to get ugly. There’s a good chance you’re going to see me foaming at the mouth at some point in the near future. You might as well call me Barrett.”

Julie opened her mouth like she wanted to say something, but at the last second, took a big swallow of wine instead.

“You can ask, you know,” I said. “You don’t have to bite your tongue. That’s why we’re here.”

“It’s none of my business. I work for you. I’ll call you Barrett because you’ve asked, but you’re entitled to privacy. I know how much you and Mr. Campbell value that.”

“Thanks, Julie,” I said quietly. I rose from my spot on the couch. “Do you mind keeping an ear out for Piper? I have some things I’d like to…”

“I don’t mind at all.”

I exited the den, still carrying my glass. Instinctively, I looked to the stairs, wondering about my children, wondering how they were going to survive losing a parent at their young age.

Would I fade from their memories with the passage of time?