DOVE

Chapter 3

The doors open. Mrs Laine walks in first, then I follow suit into the room. I pause.

Wow!

The room is magnificent! Bookshelves are stretched from floor to ceiling, the wood so dark it’s almost black. Expensive vases sitting on grand mahogany tables are also filled with books, with more artwork hanging on the walls. The desk, bigger than my own bed, takes center stage in the grand room. But who’s sitting on the seat behind the desk leaves me speechless.

That man is beautiful.

His honey blond hair that looks so smooth it could probably feel like silk, with the most gorgeous and luscious lips ever known to man. His nose is pointed and sharp, with a small stubble on his chin. But what drew me in was his eyes.

His eyes are the greenest I’ve ever seen. They’re so beautiful. I think I’ve used the word beautiful for him too many times already.

“Ms Hamilton?”

I snap out of my daze and find him looking at me, with one eyebrow raised.

“I’m so sorry, sir. I didn’t mean-“

“It’s fine. Please sit, I have things to do.” he responds.

“Of course.”

I hear the doors close. Mrs Laine left.

I take a seat opposite him. The leather chair feels cold against my legs. I try my absolute best not to fidget.

I feel his eyes on me. Observing, probably looking into my soul. I look at the fireplace, then the bookshelves, then my quivering hands. Anywhere but his eyes.

“I believe you’re interested in the nanny position, yes?” he asks, waiting for my answer.

“Yes, sir. I am. I’m very much interested.”

“How old are you?” he asks

“Twenty, sir.” I respond.

“Twenty? Why do you think you’re qualified for this job?”

“Well sir, I love children, and I have been able to relate to them. Their innocence, the way they view the world. It’s amazing.” I reply honestly.

“Alright. Do you have any experience with children?”

“Unfortunately, I don’t sir,” I say but continue. “But trust me to be able to deliver on my duties as your daughter’s nanny.” I quickly add.

He frowns.

“Where are you from, Ms Hamilton?” He asks again, his green eyes peering into my soul.

“Queens, sir. And Dove is okay by me.”

He stands, and I stand as well.

“Unfortunately, Ms Hamilt- I mean, Dove, you have no experience in caring for children, and I want the absolute best for my Leonora. I can’t hire you. My apologies.”

He walks towards the doors in quick steps. I follow him, my pleading voice taking precedence.

“Please, sir.” My voice cracks. “I really need this job! Just give me one chance, I won’t disappoint you! I’m aware I have no experience, but I am not going to give you a reason to complain for a day, sir!” I beg with folded hands. I don’t even notice the tears falling from my eyes until my cheeks start to feel wet.

He turns around and looks at me.

“One week. You’re on trial. One mistake, Dove, and you’re out immediately. Am I clear?” He says to me.

“Yes sir, loud and clear! I won’t disappoint you!”

“You better not. I’m not fond of giving unnecessary opportunities. I have to leave for the office. Mrs Laine will come here and take you to your quarters. You’ll meet Leonora in a bit. She’s taking a nap. She’s four years old and doesn’t talk much, most especially to strangers. Mrs Laine will discuss your salary with you.”

He looks up at me one last time.

“Don’t mess it up.”

Before I show my appreciation to him, he leaves the room, leaving me with my thoughts.

I let that sink in for a moment. No Celeste. No Sloane. No Dylan. Just me, new life and a new chance. I can't believe it.

Mrs Laine enters the study room.

“Come with me, Dove. Let me show you to your room.”

I quickly pick up my bag and follow her.

“Leonora is asleep right now, so you'll get to meet her when she wakes up. Here is a list of her likes and dislikes, what she can and can't do, and what she does during the day.”

“Okay. Thank you so much.”

She hands me a sheet of paper.

We reach a black door. Mrs Laine brings out the keys from her dress pockets, unlocks it and hands me the keys.

I walk in and stop.

I don’t know where to look first. I set my bag down gently. Like I’m afraid of getting the floors dirty.

This is beautiful. The walls are painted in pastels, with a huge bed and a bunch of pillows on it. They seem to be covered with linen pillowcases. The sheets are the most exquisite I've ever seen. I run my hand over it, and they feel very soft and smooth. There's also a closet and a desk at the end of the room, with a lamp and a chair. There’s also a door. It probably leads to the bathroom. I promise myself to check it out later.

Mrs Laine stands at the door.

“The closet is filled with clothes. Check if they fit and let me know if they don't. Also, your salary will be given to you according to your preference. Cash or bank transfer?”

“Bank transfer, please.”

She hands me a sheet of paper to write my bank details, and I do just that.

“You’ll be paid weekly. The sum of two thousand dollars will be sent to you. You’ll also be receiving a bonus, depending on the way Mr Lombardini likes your work.”

HOLY MOLY! TWO THOUSAND!!!

My eyes widen at that amount.

“Of course, thank you. You won’t regret it!”

She leaves me in my new room to my thoughts. I quickly read the paper to memorize all that is written.

LEONORA HELOISE LOMBARDINI- NANNY NOTES.

A. FOOD PREFERENCE

1. She’s allergic to nuts.

2. She hates tomatoes. You can attempt to give her some, but don’t force it.

3. She loves oranges and watermelons.

4. Don’t give her too much sugar.

5. She has an obsession with pickles.

6. She only drinks milk from her special purple cup.

7. Loves vanilla ice cream.

B. ROUTINE AND HABITS

1. She’s not allowed to go around the house alone.

2. She takes a bath twice a day. At 7:00 am and at 6:30 pm.

3. Always read her a bedtime story.

4. She has ballet lessons every Tuesday at 2:00 pm.

5. She likes purple.

6. Make sure she has her teddy Popsicle with her.

7. Doesn’t like the dark.

8. Naps at 12:00 pm for one hour.

C. BONUS

1. She is very observant.

2. She doesn’t talk much.

3. She likes music.

4. She loves flowers. Especially if they’re purple.

5. Doesn’t enjoy noise.

6. She likes arts and crafts.

Wow. That’s a lot to remember. Dang. I sit on my bed and study the list until little Leonora wakes up.