Page 54 of Unexpected

“If you say so,” she said.

“I know so.” At least, that’s what I kept telling myself, but even I knew it was a lie.

* * *

“Okay.”I crouched before Sophia. “You’re going to be on your best behavior, right?”

Sophia had been invited to a sleepover at Brooklyn’s, and I was looking forward to a night alone with Preston. No sneaking around. No sleeping apart. We could spend all night together. I didn’t want to admit it, but I was starting to depend on him more and more—and not just for help with Sophia.

“Yes, Mom.”

“Brooklyn’s dad knows about your food allergies, but it’s always good to ask about the ingredients if you’re unsure.” She nodded. “All right. Give me a big hug and kiss.” I opened my arms, and she stepped into them. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” Hearing that would never get old.

A car horn beeped, and she backed away, slinging her duffel bag over her shoulder. I couldn’t believe how big she suddenly seemed.

“Where’s Preston?” She glanced around. “I wanted to hug him before I go.”

I tilted my head to the side, assessing her. I was surprised how attached she’d grown to him over the past few weeks. They spent a lot of time together, but she’d spent years with Gabby and Sophia didn’t cling to her like she did Preston. And while it made me happy to see her forming that bond with a father figure, I also worried what would happen when the summer ended. I’d even started trying to think of ways to convince Preston to stay—and not just as the nanny—despite the fact that I knew Gabby was expecting to return to her job.

“Here I am,” he called, jogging down the stairs. “You almost forgot Princess Sparkles.” He held out her favorite unicorn stuffed animal.

“Thank you!” She wrapped her arms around Preston’s neck, and he swung her around. I loved the sound of her giggles. I loved watching them interact.

The doorbell chimed, and I could see Brooklyn’s and Nate’s silhouettes through the glass. Sophia lunged for the door and pulled it open.

“Brooklyn Bridge!”

“Sopapilla!”

I laughed at their silly nicknames as I extended my hand to shake her dad’s. “Hey, Nate.”

“Hey, Alexis. Good to see you.” He smiled.

“Same.”

Nate’s eyes darted between Preston and me, and I knew he was trying to figure out who Preston was to me.

“Hi,” Preston said, extending his hand. “I’m Preston.”

When he didn’t explain that he was Sophia’s nanny, I rushed to add, “He’s been watching Sophia this summer.”

A muscle in Preston’s jaw ticked, but I turned my attention back to Nate and gave him a bright smile. “Any questions? You have the list of Sophia’s allergies?”

“Wheat, gluten, and oats,” Brooklyn chimed in.

I smiled down at her. “Perfect. You guys have fun, and we’ll see you in the morning.”

Nate said nothing, but his expression spoke volumes. He clearly suspected something was going on between Preston and me. And if so, he wasn’t wrong. Still, I wasn’t ready to share that we were together. Wasn’t sure I’d ever be ready for that. I could only imagine the reactions of the other parents.

“See you tomorrow,” Nate said.

Preston and I waved goodbye, watching as Nate’s Land Rover disappeared down the drive before shutting the front door.

“Why did you do that?” he asked.

“I’m so sorry,” I said, knowing I’d made a mistake, knowing I’d hurt him. “I panicked.”