My blood ran cold.
“How do you know that?”
“I make it my business to know everything about people who come into contact with my son. Even those with seemingly pure intentions.”
He took a sip of his whiskey.
I stood abruptly, clutching the backpack.
“I should go.”
“Sit down, Ellie.”
His voice was soft, but there was steel beneath the softness.
I sank back into the chair, my heart pounding.
“I’m not going to hurt you.”
It was probably intended to comfort me.
It did not.
“What does that mean?”
He set his glass down on the small table beside him.
“My son likes you. He doesn’t like many people. A trait he inherited from me.”
He steepled his fingers.
“This morning, Marco asked if you could be his new nanny.”
I blinked.
“Nanny?”
“His current caretaker is retiring next month. Moving to Florida to be with her grandchildren.”
He studied me over his steepled fingers.
“The position comes with a substantial salary, private accommodations here on the estate, and my personal guarantee of safety.”
“You’re offering me a job as Marco’s nanny?”
“Yes.”
“But I don’t know anything about you.”
“I know everything about you. I know you’re qualified, with 2 years of nursing school before your parents’ accident. I know you’re responsible, working multiple jobs to put your sister through school. Most importantly, I know Marco trusts you. That is something I value above all else.”
My head was spinning.
“Mr. Russo, I appreciate the offer, but I can’t just—”
“I’ll triple whatever you’re making now, plus room and board, health insurance, and a car at your disposal. Your sister’s tuition will be paid in full, including her living expenses.”
The offer was so outlandish, so completely beyond anything I could have expected, that I almost laughed.
“Why? Why me?”
“Because you helped my son when you didn’t have to. And because I trust my instincts.”
I shook my head, trying to clear it.
“I need time to think.”
