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Brennan leaned toward the stern-looking woman. “Look into those references, would you, Diana?” The people I’d worked for would probably be scared to death having a billionaire call them, but I was sure they’d still give me rave reviews.
“How much experience do you have with disabled or special needs children?”
I perked up at that. “That’s my specialty, actually. One of my client’s kids was autistic, level three on the spectrum. He was non-verbal, and struggled with communication and emotional regulation. In accordance with his doctor and psychologist, I suggested we implemented art therapy for him. Now he draws daily, and it’s his super power. He drew this self-portrait of me.” I whipped out my phone. I was very proud of “my” kid’s work.
“That’s you? It’s so true-to-life.”
“He was only four when he drew it,” I replied proudly. “I also had a kiddo with cerebral palsy. She needed more help with mobility and daily meds. Smart as a whip, that one. A math whiz. I kept encouraging her to look at STEM clubs and careers.”
Brennan’s smile returned. I hadn’t realized how much I missed it. “You sound passionate about your work. You really connected with those kids, didn’t you? You loved them like your own and took the initiative to help them develop.”
I looked down, chewing on my nails. “Yeah, I guess I did.” His praise was so business-like, but it still felt good.
“My nephew was born addicted to heroin. From what I understand, my sister got a prescription for painkillers from her doctor, heaven only knows what for, and next thing you know she was an addict. Spiraled so far down that she was in and out of drug houses using used needles. It’s a miracle the baby doesn’t have HIV. He may have other developmental delays, though. We don’t know yet.”
I nodded. “Don’t you worry, Mr. Brennan. I’ve worked with kids who were born with addictions before. It can be a challenge for sure, but it’s the most challenging for the child. They don’t understand why they’re experiencing the things they are. It’s up to us to give them the proper love and care they need.”
“It sounds like the agency accidentally got it right. Maybe I won’t buy up the whole place just so I can fire whoever said you weren’t good enough.” Brennan’s smile was so warm I forgot myself for a minute.This is your new boss, Riley. Better not piss him off, and better not look at him, even though he looks likethat.Still, with the vibes he was giving off, I thought it would be okay to try a joke, even if it was lame.
“Actually, I wouldn’t stop you. I don’t think they have the eye for talent you do.” Brennan laughed, and his eyes crinkled at the corners. He was so devilishly handsome, with his hair the rich chocolate brown of a grizzly, the gray making him look more noble and powerful.
“Welcome aboard, Riley. We’re glad to have you.” He held out his hand again and I took it. His paw was gigantic. Mine got swallowed right up. Before, he shook my hand with all the power and authority of a billionaire. Now, he shook it with all the warmth of a gentle giant.My alpha.I nipped that insane thought in the bud.You have to let go, Riley, you have to let go! I don’t want to pull away before he does. What would that say about me as a new employee?I would let that be my excuse.
Our hands lingered together for a moment. He was the first to pull away, and I remembered to breathe again. One of the staff people in a maid’s uniform giggled, turning away to hide their smile.Okay, so it’s not just me imagining this connection we have. Too bad I can never, ever, act on it. This job is too important.
I smoothed my shirt down and cleared my throat. “It’s okay to bring my son, right?”
Brennan stroked his chin thoughtfully. “Yes, you mentioned you had a child yourself. I think it’ll be good for Pete to grow up with somebody he can look at as a buddy, maybe even a sibling.” Maybe he shouldn’t be saying sibling. Petey and Holden were on two vastly different levels in life. It felt right, though.
“When can you start?”
“Right now. Where’s the baby?” As if on cue, Pete’s cries rang out from his nursery.
Chapter 3
Riley
