Page 24 of The Surrogate Nanny
I swallowed around the lump in my throat. I did good. I picked a wonderful mother for my child. A sense of peace washed over me for the first time in a long time. I was optimistic that we could do this—cohabitate and co-parent. We both wanted the same thing—to love Nori unconditionally.
“Okay. Do you have any more questions?”
“Just one. If this doesn’t work out, will you be willing to split 50/50 custody with me?”
“Yes,” I replied instantly.
“Good. I want that in writing, and then I’ll sign the contract.”
Chapter Thirteen
Simone
Anthony’s house could not be called a home—it was too grand. When we met, I remembered him telling me he was in finance, but I didn’t think he’d be loaded like this. His wealth intimidated me when I first arrived in the luxury gated community. There was a guard shack with an actual guard in uniform with a firearm operating his post. If Jonathan weren’t with me, there would’ve been no chance that I would’ve been granted access to the illustrious Emerald Falls. The winding streets, free of potholes and debris, took me through a picturesque community brimming with foliage I didn’t think was achievable in our dry Texas climate. The towering homes on large acreage left me speechless, and the community pool and water park excited me like a kid on Christmas. All I could think about was Nori happily splashing and running through the splash pad. My mouth dropped when I approached Anthony’s house.
I pulled behind him into the circular driveway, and I was in awe of the three-story cream-colored stucco mansion. The first thing I noticed was how modern it appeared, and without entering the home, I knew it’d be cold and sterile, just like Anthony Powell. The wrought-iron Juliette balcony and the columns were a nice added touch. I stepped inside and realized that my earlier assumptions were just that—assumptions. I immediately fell in love with the high ceilings, warm brown hardwood floors, and open concept. I had to enter the expansive gourmet kitchen with dual islands and a butler’s pantry before arriving in the backyard. I could live and die in that kitchen.
After I accepted employment as Nori’s “nanny,” Anthony led me on a tour of my new home. I was blown away by the full-home theater, Nori’s decked-out playroom, and the luxurious bedroom suites. The property was a stunning oasis in the middle of the city.
“No. Don’t fall asleep yet. It’s your bath time. You smell like outside, and you’re still sticky from your picnic with your dad,” I complained as I gathered Nori’s bath toys, toothbrush, pull-up, and night clothes. She sucked on her middle and forefinger, looking like she was two seconds away from La La Land. A loud crash and a curse jolted her awake. “What in the world?” Nori stared up at me quizzically, practically urging me to investigate.
Well...I guess I can check on him. Plus, I’m not trying to end up on someone’s suspect list if he dies. I have the motive and the most to gain if he passes away.
I dropped the bath items, gathered my baby in my arms, and cautiously approached Anthony’s bedroom.
“Fuck!”
Okay, so he’s not dead.
“Is everything okay?” I asked, edging closer toward the bathroom door. It swung open, and I wasn’t prepared to find Anthony in a low-slung towel, drying his hair. I held Nori close, frozen by the sight. The bathroom billowed steam directly into my face, efficiently masking the heat from my cheeks. My mouth went dry when I noticed the spattering of dark hair disappearing into the towel. My eyes traced back up to his neck, where a drop of water trailed until it vanished into the towel.
“Sorry...I was...,” I stuttered and gestured towards Nori.
Anthony raised a dark brow and shrugged. “It’s no issue, Simone. You enjoy voyeurism. I’m not one to kink shame.”
I sucked my cheeks in with disapproval, ready to give him the business when he cracked a smile that immediately disarmed me and reminded me why I was there.
It’s certainly not to ogle the man who made my life a living hell!
“Are you okay? I heard a bump and thought....”
He waved me off nonchalantly. “I’m fine. Do you mind grabbing my cane?”
“Um...sure,” I agreed, picking up the same cane I imagined beating him with several times.
This is the perfect opportunity...
I offered it to him quietly. His eyes flicked down and met mine. I glanced away quickly. There was no way I’d get lost in those gray eyes that were identical to my baby’s. I wouldn’t allow Anthony Powell the privilege.
“I’m sorry,” he apologized.
“It’s no trouble,” I offered, finally backing out of the bathroom. I cleared my throat. “Should I wait for the hot water?”
“Wait for...?” He chuckled and leaned on his cane for a moment. A devilish smirk spread over his lips. “No, Ms. Simone. That won’t be necessary. Or do you still prefer Ms. Livingston? I can’t seem to remember.”
The heat of embarrassment was almost blinding. “Simone is fine...thank you.”
His gaze is warm, but I know his heart is cold. It’s just the proximity that has me discombobulated.