Mercedes Ingalls thought Nicholas Moore’s kids were too young to ride bikes the size of what she saw in the driveway, but she pulled over to the curb to interview for the nanny job that would give her some nights and weekends off. When no one answered the doorbell, she approached a handsome, gorgeous-bodied man across the street to ask about Nicholas since the fancy houses didn’t have street numbers on them. She hoped the guy was actually Nicholas, but he told her he was Parker, Nick’s brother. He told her the doorbell didn’t work, and she sensed that he meant she should walk right in, especially when he left with no further directions. She walked through the unlocked door and marveled at the pristine white carpet. How did it stay that clean with children living here? She called out to Nicholas and, though he was talking on his Bluetooth, he held up a finger, ended the call, and had her follow him to his office.
Something told her Nicholas Moore’s kids needed her, and she wanted this job. But it looked like he had a stack of resumes on his desk. However, he had to go to New Orleans in a week and needed someone who could start the next morning. Mercedes and her dad may have argued over her schooling and her decision to work odd jobs that didn’t pay much, but she always knew without a doubt that her dad loved her and her parents had always made time for her. Looking at the man in front of her, committed to his job and most likely a stranger to his children, she realized he might need her around just as much as the kids did – because someone needed to teach him how to love his children. And it didn’t take her more than the first day to realize she was absolutely in love with both of those children!
When Nick arranged to move the New Orleans trip back by two weeks, Mercedes told him she thought he did the right thing. Maisy and Eli weren’t ready for him to leave yet. Nick is also aware that he is having a strong reaction to Mercedes. He is likewise envious that she looked at Parker and it looked like Parker would once again get the girl. His kids seemed to adore Mercedes and Maisy talked about her all the time. Even Eli smiled and climbed up on her lap. Mercedes was changing their lives for the better. But would she ever be interested in Nick?
This was such a wonderful story that really does touch the heart. Both Nick and Mercedes felt the extreme chemistry, yet couldn’t imagine the other could feel anything for them. The love that the family poured out was amazing. The story line moves at a leisurely pace, but take the time to read this wonderful book and just feel how it will move you. This is really a good one!