Page 127 of The Baby Twist

“It worked, didn’t it?” Stella said, sipping her wine.

“She knew how important that company is to me. Enough about me. Tell me about your parents?”

Chapter Thirteen

Stella

“I was born and raised in Tampa, Florida. When I was ten, my parents and I were in a serious car accident that took their lives. After I got out of the hospital, I went and lived with my grandmother. After I graduated from high school, I attended the University of Florida. I got my bachelor’s when I was twenty-three, and right before I started the master’s program, my grandmother became very ill, and I had to take some time off to take care of her. Six months later, she passed away. After the funeral, Jordyn convinced me to come to New York, move in with her, and get my master’s and doctorate at NYU. So, I did. When I was having trouble finding a job that would cover my living expenses and tuition, a friend of a friend of Jordyn’s told me that the Kensington’s were looking for a new nanny, and I should apply. She said they would pay me well, and I’d still be able to take my classes. I applied, and they were impressed with my credentials. They hired me on the spot.”

“I know Nadine, and I can’t imagine it was easy working for her.” A smirk crossed his lips.

“It wasn’t. But the kids made it better.” I smiled.

“You really like kids, don’t you?” he asked, finishing the last of his bourbon.

“I love kids. I started babysitting when I was twelve and worked in daycare centers while I was in school. Who doesn’t love kids?” I got up from the table and grabbed our plates.

“Me, for one,” he said, and I stopped momentarily before setting the dishes in the sink.

“You don’t like children?”

“Ten and up are okay. Any child under ten, no.”

“Why is that?”

“They’re loud, obnoxious, demand too much attention, and most of your time. Being responsible for another human being is not my thing.”

“So, you never want children?” I turned and looked at him.

“No. My work causes enough stress in my life. The last thing I’d need is to walk through the door after a long workday to a screaming kid. I like my peace and quiet. But I take it you plan on having children someday.”

“Yeah, I do because I love kids.”

“To each their own.” He winked. “We couldn’t be more complete opposites.” He took hold of my hand. “Except in the bedroom. Leave these dishes for tomorrow morning and come with me.” He led me to his bed.

I awoke in my bed the following morning. Miles suggested that it wasn’t a good idea that I stayed in his after we had sex. He was a complicated man with a lot of issues. Issues that stemmed from his parents and childhood.

Climbing out of bed, I went into the kitchen, where Miles sat at the island, scrolling on his phone and drinking a cup of coffee.

“Morning,” I said, making my way to the coffee machine.

“Morning. How did you sleep?”

“Like a baby. You?”

“Well, babies don’t sleep, so I never understand why people use that phrase. I slept great.”

I rolled my eyes as I pulled down a mug from the cabinet.

“I’m happy to hear that.”

“I’ll see you later. I’m going to the office.” He set his coffee cup in the sink.

“On a Saturday?”

“It’s just another day, Stella.” He smirked. “Don’t forget we have dinner with my aunt and uncle tonight.”

“I know. I’m going shopping today for a new dress.”