ormal stresses of work and home. The fleeting moments of passion and adventure blurred like an elusive dream, but the memories of Maximo lingered--those piercing blue eyes, his conf

ed her. Her work as a freelance graphic designer had been inconsistent, and with her daughter Camilla growing more active and curious

led onto the couch, scrolling through her phone. The glare from the screen illuminated the dim room,

fingers tapping instinctively against her phone. The requirements were straightforward: a love for childr

be ideal to have someone trustworthy to care for Camilla when she needed time to work or simply to bre

received a reply. "Thank you for applying, Miss Clara. We would love to set up an interview

ilities of the meeting. An interview? It seemed like too good an opportunity to pass on. Besides, she had always h

p white top, attempting to exclude professionalism while still feeling comfortable. In the back of her mind, though, she worried

ion washed over her. Following the directions sent in the email, she took an elevator up to the top floor and

d a smooth voi

er heart pounding in her chest. As she turned to face

framed by the sophisticated decor surrounding him. That same smir

prised but decidely pleased.

heeks, the memories of their night flooding back, overwhelmin

him. "Please, take a seat. I know this

' turning into an opportunity for employment stirring warily in her mind. "I applied for t

children and your glowing references stood out,

understand how you feel about the ro

the captivating man she had danced with weeks ago. "I'm thrilled for the opportunity," she bega

daughter's name. "I know how important it is for you to feel comfortable.

?" she asked, tilting her head slightly, tryi

caregiver. Amelia is--well, let's say she's a handful," he admitted, laughter echoing in his voice. "But

up at the prospect of a new friend. "I'll do my best to make her feel happy and s

res. "And if you're okay with it, we can discuss the terms and schedule after this interview, ju

It was undeniable; the chemistry was still palpable. Even within the bounds of professionalism, every wor

d mean begin to sink in. Even though the past with Maximo was filled with recklessness, the idea of working closely with him, while also being there

with deep consideration. "I think you'd be wonderful for Amelia. I'll have my assistant handl

ke that, really. But ....I want to be sure this won't complicate things between us.

t a time, Clara. I promise to keep our professional relationship clear.

a mix of relief and anticip

how, life had unexpectedly brought her back to Maximo, and together they were embarking on a new chapter--both for her career and thei