Chapter 13
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.”
“Good. I have no doubt you’ll look beautiful in it.” He grabbed his briefcase and walked to the elevator.
* * *
“Miles doesn’t ever want kids,” I said to Jordyn as we walked down Fifth Avenue with our coffee in our hands.
“Okay, and?” She glanced at me.
“Nothing. I’m just saying he doesn’t like kids.”
“Why do you seem bothered by it? Are you planning on having his baby?”
“Shut up.” I laughed. “Of course not. I just think it’s sad.”
“Are you really surprised, Stella? I mean, he is a man who paid you to marry him so he could get control of his company. A man of his looks and status shouldn’t be single. He chooses to be, so I’m not surprised he doesn’t want kids. Could you imagine if you got pregnant in Vegas after that whole birth control debacle?” Her eyes widened.
“I don’t ever want to think about that again. I really hate that you’re moving.” I laid my head on her shoulder.
“I know, but things won’t change. We’ll still talk every day. Have you asked Miles to attend Morgan’s wedding with you?”
“Not yet. I’m going to today. I hope he says yes.”
She stopped in the middle of the sidewalk and grabbed my arm.
“Are you falling in love with him?”
“No.” My brows furrowed. “Why would you think that?”
“Because of the tone you used when you said you hope he says yes. It was like a teenage girl all excited that the guy she’d been chasing down all year asked her to the prom.”
“You’re crazy.” I rolled my eyes. “I think it would be fun. We could dance.” I smiled.
“Somehow, I don’t think uptight Miles Bradshaw dances.”
After a day of shopping, Sean drove me back to the penthouse.
“Thanks, Sean. I’ll see you later.”
“See you, Stella.” He smiled.
When I stepped off the elevator, I heard piano music. Taking my bags to my room, I walked up the winding stairs and saw Miles sitting at the piano.
“Hi.” I smiled.
“Hey.” He stopped.
“You don’t have to stop. It sounds beautiful.” I walked over and sat on the bench next to him. “How long have you been home?”
“Not long.” He placed his hands on the keys and began playing a soft melody. “Did you find a dress?”
“Yeah, I did. I wanted to ask you something.”
“Okay. What is it?”
“My friend Morgan’s wedding is next weekend, and I was wondering if you’d like to be my date.”
“I appreciate the offer, but no. Weddings aren’t my thing.”
“Oh, come on, Miles. It’ll be fun.”
“I said no, Stella.” His tone was abrupt.
“Okay.” I stood up. “I have to get ready for dinner.” I walked down the stairs and to my room.
I couldn’t help but feel disappointed. I knew he made it clear that I would live my life and he would live his, but what the hell was the big deal about attending a wedding with me? I had to go to this stupid dinner with him and pretend to be his wife. This arrangement was going to be a lot harder than I thought it would be.