The New Nanny

Of all the applicants, there was something about Lena that she couldn't shake off. Her short black hair, smooth tan skin, and deep coffee-colored eyes looked straight into your soul. She dressed informally, mostly in black, and wore a purple gem necklace on a silver chain. She didn't sugar coat anything. She hardly smiled. She had a no-nonsense attitude, getting right to questions about scheduling, pay, and duties. Something about her radiated protection. She had a way of seeing Madelyn, 18 months old, out of the corner of her eye, often reaching out to her before even looking at her.

Laura was pleased, but she had one burning question. She met Lena’s eyes, the question nearly escaping her mouth. Something in the young woman's expression, like she knew the question and did not want to answer it, challenged her to ask and see what happens. The question died on her lips. Yes, Lena would intimidate anyone who wanted to mess with her daughter.

“You’re hired.”