Live-In-Position

Chapter One

My face buried in Map Quest directions, driving from Tacoma to Seattle, First Hill to be exact, my phone rang.

Hello?

Sophia, are you on your way? Miranda’s whispered words concerned me.

I just got off exit 172. I should be there shortly, what's wrong?

Everything, she groaned. He finds something wrong with every single one of them. This is your chance to run while you still can.

I laughed. Then what, you'll get married and still live with the Bishops? I don't think Benji will like that too much.

She sighed.

I'll be there soon. Closing my phone I picked up speed. My Jeep was old, but reliable, though I couldn't push it much more or it would scream ‘uncle’.

When I turned onto 12th Avenue, I took in the perfectly tree lined streets. There were a few visible houses, but I almost missed my destination because of the driveway being hidden.

Pulling to a stop and climbing out of the car, the house seemed to loom over me. It wasn't like the homes I had worked in before, which had felt homey. My nerves began to collect in the pit of my stomach as I approached the front door.

Rand wasn't lying, My words almost echo around the vast driveway. The house is huge and definitely expensive.

I took one deep breath and headed to the door. Before I could knock Miranda opened the door with a flustered expression. She pulled me in for a quick hug and whispered in my ear.

Brace yourself.

I squeezed her hand gently and she showed me to a large dining room.

Miss Ashwood, I presume?

I nodded slowly, taking in his appearance. He was at least a foot and a half taller than me and the broadness of his shoulders was definitely worth swooning over. I wondered why Miranda hadn't mentioned much about how beautiful he was in past conversations.

I'm Doctor Bishop. He put his hand out. His long fingers wrapped around my hand and there was a small shock at our touch. The feeling shot from my hand to the pit of my stomach.

Sorry, I mumbled, pulling my hand away quickly.

Yes, well, let us get started, shall we? Please take a seat. Dr. Bishop motioned to a chair across from Miranda and him. I sat down and clasped my hands on the table in front of me, still trying to rid myself of the lingering effects of his hand.

Looking through your resume it seems you have only had one live in arrangement and it was for an infant. He looked up from my information for confirmation and I gave him a nod. You do realize this is a live in placement with a six year old child? I nodded again and smiled. So your other placements have been daily arrangements on intermittent basis?

Yes, mostly for mothers who are just returning to work and needed something until their children started school. He looked at me intently.

It was on a brief moment to admire his beauty, but I took it. Obviously, I had seen his pictures in the many magazines he had been featured, but somehow they didn't do his appearance justice. He really was almost perfection. Those printed works did nothing to convey his smooth skin, high cheek bones, strong jaw, and pale red lips that weren't full but they weren't too thin either. Then there was his hair. In photos his brown hair was always tamed, but in person it was an unruly coppery brown color; a complete contrast to his frosty, calm, collected mannerisms I was a witness to today.

And you prefer that type of arrangement? He eyed me closely with his bright green eyes.

Well, I did; however, that was while I finished college. Now that I have –

So you plan to do nothing with your college education? His face shifted into a look of disapproval.

I opened my mouth but closed it because I was to give him a nice dose of 'to hell with you mister'. I had registered with 'Nanny Poppins' three years ago and now that I had finished college with a Degree in Creative Writing I wanted to write the next bestselling novel, but that would take time and I needed a steady income to survive. Only a few months after Miranda suggested I switch to full time, live-in status, I ended up with this interview. Instead of cursing him out, I collected my thoughts and answered.

I intend to use my childcare experience and education while I am employed; however, I also have a creative writing degree I will be putting to use as well. He raised a silently questioning brow. I would like to be a published author and believe I can work on this during my own time.

So, you have a degree in creative writing and childcare? Confusion plagued his handsome but stoic face. I fought the laugh threatening to escape my mouth.

I majored in creative writing, my passion, but as I got more involved with childcare I decided to minor in it. I shrugged. I also have certifications, in CPR, first aid, and –

Daddy?

I stopped and turned to see a sweet pale skinned girl with curly red hair enter the room. She was a young girl, but she still had the roundness of a baby in her cheeks. Her hair was in large ringlets flowing over her shoulders. With her blue and white striped dress she reminded me of a porcelain doll. A small smile crept over my lips and a warm feeling filled my chest as I took in her appearance.

Victoria, I'm busy at the moment. I will come see you later. He didn't even bother to look at her while dismissing her.

I apologize, daddy, she mumbled and her face fell.

My defiant nature kicked into action. I stood and walked over to her.

Hello. I held out my hand.

She looked around me toward her father. Her stiffened posture relaxed with a sigh of relief.

Nice to meet you, she responded quickly and gently shook my hand. My knee protested against the floor as I knelt to her level.

My name is Sophia. I smiled.

I'm Victoria. She smiled wide.

That is a beautiful name. It's nice to meet you, Victoria.

A throat cleared behind me and I made a silly face at Victoria. She giggled.

If you don't mind, I have a schedule to keep. He snapped from behind me.

Winking at Victoria I straightened back up to a standing position.

Sorry. I walked back to my seat.

Well, you've met my daughter.

I nodded. She's very lovely. Ignoring my compliment of his daughter he continued on.

This states you are familiar with three languages. His eyebrow rose again, this time it was as if he were challenging my information. I felt a little bit insulted, as if he were calling me a liar. Now, that ticked me off.

Je me demande comment familier vous sont véritablement? He sneered as he questioned.

Connaitre suffisamment d'obtenir grâce a une conversation. I responded with my eyes narrowed at him. O quizás premiere Español? I paused. O italiano? Se la mia italiano e un piccolo rusty?

I raised my eyebrow back at him mimicking his earlier challenge. He lightly cleared his throat and glared at me. With a quick look at Miranda's face, I could see the defeat. Clearly the interview was over.

I believe you've already come to your conclusions about me, as well as made your decision, so if you would please excuse me. Standing, I smiled and nodded to Dr. Bishop, giving Miranda an apologetic look. A few feet from my exit out the front door, a voice called out from behind me.

Are you coming back? I spun quickly toward Victoria's voice. She stood on the staircase with a look that appeared to be a fine line between panic and excitement.

Um, I don't know. I smiled and her face fell. Hey, there are other people to interview, so you have to give them all a fair shot. I took the few steps to reach her. Okay? I lightly lifted her chin to look at me while I spoke. My heart broke at her disappointment.

She nodded and I smiled before turning back toward the door.

I ended up face to chest with Dr. Bishop. His scent was a mixture of crisp linen and purely man. My stomach fluttered from manly aroma and the warmth from his close body.

Victoria, please go to your room. His voice was cold and stern.

Blinking a couple of times, his strict voice snapping me out of my current trance, I took a couple steps back and around him, heading out the door. Once I was in my Jeep I released the scream I had been holding.

Well, way to screw that up Sophia, I grumbled at my reflection in the review mirror before I drove away.

Grabbing my cell phone, before getting back onto Interstate 5, I quickly text Miranda.

'I'm sorry. I just couldn't take anymore of him. Forgive me?'

It was hours later while sitting in front of the TV with my father watching baseball when Miranda responded.

'You are more than forgiven. You are hired!'

I had to read the text three times before it sunk in and I got excited. Then I stopped, mid happy dance. Crap! I'd have to see and deal with the antichrist every day. Ugh…if only he kept his mouth shut and just let me look at him, it would be perfect. I laughed at my own internal dialogue and my father looked at me like I had lost it.

Do I even want to know what's going on in that head of yours? He chuckled.

Do you ever really want to know? I smiled mischievously and wiggled my eyebrows.

No. He turned back to his baseball game with a large smile.

I got a job, so I will be out of your way soon.

You aren't in my way Soph. He answered without looking away from the television.

Yeah right, now you don't have to sneak Carla into the house anymore. I laughed when he turned to look at me wide eyed. You should so see your face right now. I laughed harder.

You, you know about..?

I rolled my eyes.

Of course, the question is why you thought you should hide it from me. I'm happy for you. I got up and kissed his head.

Well, with your mother, I just…um…Thanks. He sat a little straighter. So, um, this new job, it's a live in position, I take it? I knew his stumbling had everything to do with when we lost my mother five years ago. Instead of rehashing that pain, I let him switch the topic.

Yeah, I'll be taking care of a six year old girl, though her father could possibly be the antichrist.

I'll be sure to stop by the church and get you some Holy Water before you move out. My father snorted with laughter.

Good, I might need it. Can you see about a crucifix while you're there?

I'll ask Pastor Thomas what he can do. My father's large smile was so endearing. I kissed the top of his head again.

Well, I'm gonna head to bed. Good night dad!

Night Soph.

The next morning I woke up to another message from Miranda.

'Call me, as soon as you can.'

I stretched out on my bed, listening to some of my cramped joints crack, and then called Miranda.

Hey Soph

Hey, what's up?

The agency will be sending you the contract in a couple of hours and once you get it I'd rather you call me if you have questions, okay?

Sure, I yawned out. Sorry, still waking up. So, in a couple of hours I'll just give you a call as I go over it, how's that?

I heard her breath in relief. Perfect.

Is there something else? Ever since I had met Rand through the agency she had become one of my best friends, and, well, she was never good at hiding her emotions. There was definitely something going on and she was stalling.

Well, can you start in a week? She asked quietly.

I thought you still had three weeks with…

Technically I do, well did. But…I figure I could have you here with me for a week to learn the routine and then well I could cut out earlier than I had…

Wait, does the antichrist know?

She laughed heartily.

The antichrist? Nice. she laughed out. I talked to him already. Honestly Sophia, he isn't that bad. I snorted. He's a little stiff and intense, but once you get familiar you really won't have much interaction with him at all.

He's never around? You never mentioned that before. I thought it was kind of odd. Typically you saw the parents around their children. Miranda had told me about Victoria's not being around; having left her at a young age, so I assumed Dr. Bishop would try to compensate.

Umm…not really, and I'm really not supposed to discuss anything with outside people. You'll understand once you go through the contract, get here and experience the routine Victoria has.

Okay, I sighed out. Once I get the contract I'll let you know.

Thanks Sophia.

We hung up and I headed to the shower.

After my shower the contract was in my inbox. I printed and read it over quickly. It was a standard contract I had seen many times; however, this time there were exhibits A and B included.

Some of the standards included the monthly salary payment of three thousand dollars; much higher than I had ever been paid in the past. It also outlined the contract terms that would be renewable annually, then went the basics of drug testing, medical testing, privacy clauses, etc. It was the privacy clause which called my attention first. We always signed a privacy clause, but this time it was much lengthier and I was sure this is what Miranda had been referring to during our call.

Exhibit A, duties and responsibilities, was a new section for me. Typically they would just include the responsibilities in the standard portion. Then came, Exhibit B - Accommodations, which wasn't unfamiliar; however the fact that it was its own 'exhibit' was new.

After reading it over again, I called Miranda. The vehicle was unnecessary and I could provide my own food; especially when he was paying me so much a month. I had very few bills since there were no living expenses, besides my school loans, car insurance, gas, and cell phone.

Hey, did you get it? She answered excitedly.

Yeah, but Rand, I don't need a car.

Sophia, just take the offer. Don't tell him you don't want anything, just take it please. It will be easier. She pleaded.

I have a car. I protested.

No, you have an ancient Jeep that he is not going to allow Victoria to travel in. She countered.

Okay, but providing my food?

You are going to cook it.

What other items could be necessary? I asked quickly.

Umm...not too many; however, sometimes the family goes on vacation and you’ll be asked, which means required by the way, to attend with them. They’ll pay for travel costs and that sort of thing. Your typical duties and responsibilities will be the same; though some adjustments may be made since it’s a vacation. She elaborated.

I sighed. It was better to get more than less.

I'll see you in a week.

Chapter Two

Miranda had forgone her Sunday evening off so she could help me get situated in the Bishop home. Most of her things aside from some essentials for the week had been moved into her fiancé, Benji's, place.

This is going to be great Sophia, I promise. She beamed at me as we lugged the first of my boxes to the bedroom. Just wait till you see the nanny suite.

The nanny suite? I asked as she pushed the door open.

She didn't answer me, but once we entered the room…err…suite she didn't have to. I put down the box in a decent sized room with a couch, chair, and television. There was even a small kitchenette off to the side.

Follow me, Miranda motioned with her head as she walked through another door. Inside that door was a large bedroom, with a four post bed.

I asked Mrs. Baker to help me clean the suite and change the sheets and everything for you. I went out and bought some new ones. She smiled at me as she set the box on the floor and the suitcase next to it.

Geesh, Rand, this place is huge. I spun in a circle as I took the room in.

Well, welcome home. She laughed. I know you expected just a bedroom, but you get the living room, this bedroom with a balcony, she moved to a set of French doors and pushed them open as well as a large bathroom. She nodded toward a door behind me.

I hesitantly made my way to the door, turned the knob slowly, and pushed it open.

The light switch is on the left just inside the door. Rand yelled to me. My hand quickly found the switch and the room illuminated with bright light.

My mouth dropped when I saw the size of the large jet tub; the beautiful glass shower the kind with the shower head directly above you, hanging from the ceiling; and then there was the large vanity area and the sink.

Holy crap Miranda, you've been living it up for the past three years, I laughed and heard her giggle behind me.

I know, right! She giggled out. I think the one thing I hate to leave the most, besides Victoria of course, is that shower. She sighed. Maybe Benji will install one for me.

I'm sure if you promise to let him watch you shower, you can have whatever you want. I wiggled my eyebrows at her.

She shrugged. Probably. He's a perv.

We laughed our way back downstairs for the rest of my things. Putting my clothes away we talked about Victoria's schedule, the Bishop family, and her and Benji.

So…how are you? Rand turned to look at me curiously. I mean you've been with Victoria since she was three, right?

She nodded.

It will be hard, but I've already found another family that needs help with a little girl on a part time, non-live-in basis. She sighed.

Hey you can always call us and we can visit with you. I smiled.

Oh, I doubt it. Miranda rolled her eyes.

Huh? Why? I stopped what I was doing and looked at her.

Sophia, Victoria's schedule is intense, especially for a six year old. I furrowed my brow in confusion. Follow me. She walked from the closet and headed out toward the living room.

Have a seat. She motioned to the couch. I was going to wait, but might as well get started. She sighed and sat next to me with a binder in her hands. I put this together to help you out.

I took the binder into my lap. It was heavy and thick.

What is all of this?

Consider it a reference guide for you. She pulled it open to the first page. This is Victoria's weekly schedule.

I looked it over.

Are you serious? That little girl has this kind of schedule? I asked without taking my widened eyes from the daunting list.

Contact numbers for each activity and directions for horseback riding and Ballet, everything else is here in the house. Miranda pointed out each place on the next page.

This is a lot for a six year old. When does she get to be a kid? I looked to Rand.

She shrugged. This is how it is for the upper class kids. Just wait till you see all the 'stuff'. She rolled her eyes. It's crazy.

I'll say. Geesh. I laughed out. So, Saturday, what exactly does he considered educational and physical activities?

Well, last weekend we went to the museum and to the zoo. I try to make things fun, but I also know Dr. Bishop wants her to be kept on a strict regimen.

Why? I looked at her. Why is he so strict with her, she's only six?

She shrugged.

I can't honestly say for sure, but it has something to do with her mother. I told you Victoria's mother left them unexpectedly and that’s when I was hired on remember?

Yeah, but what does that have to do with –

I can only assume it's to keep her busy. Victoria doesn't really remember her and Dr. Bishop doesn't speak of her, at all. Then she eyed me sternly. And trust me; you don't want to ask about her.

I nodded and shrugged. It wasn't my place to pry into the antichrist’s personal life.

We moved on to doctor information and school location, teacher names and phone numbers, and an address book of school friends, etc. Miranda had made small notes in regards to other nannies and who they worked for.

Next was the section regarding the Bishop family; Dr. Bishop had a brother and sister; Max and Allison. Both were married with children and, of course, nannies. All of the immediate family lives in Seattle, including the parents; Dr. Connor and Ilene Bishop. It was a lot to take in and even more to remember, I was sure the binder would be used frequently.

Three hours later we finished and Benji called with an offer to take us to dinner, so Miranda and I piled into her car and headed out to meet with him. Benji had brought a co-worker with him.

Sophia, it's good to see you! Benji pulled me into a large hug.

It's good to see you too. I smiled and hugged him back.

This is my friend Lucas Gray, we work together. Lucas this is Miranda's friend I was telling you about, Sophia Ashwood. He motioned back and forth in introduction.

I put my hand out, as did Lucas. It was a normal handshake, but his seemed a limp, especially compared to Dr. Bishop's vice-like grip. Shaking the thoughts of him, I redirected myself back into the present.

It's nice to meet you.

I figured it would be good for you to meet some other people in Seattle, besides just Miranda and me. Benji smiled warmly and then the hostess seated us at a table.

The night was filled with good, easy going conversation, and Lucas was actually pretty nice. We exchanged numbers to keep in touch before I had to pry Miranda from Benji's face so we could head back to the house. She informed me earlier about how Allison would get if no one was there to take care of Victoria when she brought her back on Sundays.

Once Victoria was showered and tucked into bed. The food and wine made it easy to fall asleep after my own shower. Miranda and I shared the large four post bed until the alarm screamed at five in the morning. Groaning in unison, we rolled out of bed. Once we were dressed it was time to start the routine with Victoria.

Victoria's room was just two doors down from mine, but first Miranda went downstairs and got Victoria's things together for school and lunch. Then before starting breakfast she headed back upstairs to get Victoria ready.

Come on Victoria, it's time to get up. Miranda nudged her slightly. She moaned and covered her head. I had to stifle laughter.

Come on girl, you want to make a good first impression on Sophia, don't you?

Victoria's head popped up from under her pillow, her curls full of frizz. She sat up in the middle of her bed and looked at me.

Hi she smiled, but there was something lingering behind that smile.

Good morning, I sat on the bed next to her. Miranda pulled out a school uniform and placed it on her bed.

You need to go get cleaned up and into your uniform, missy. Rand smiled at her and helped her off the bed.

Victoria hurried into her bathroom. I could hear the water and the sound of teeth being brushed. I looked around her room and took in the wall of dolls on shelves, large white desk with a large white book case next to it, as well as the large entertainment system. Miranda wasn’t joking when she said there was a lot of 'stuff'. Victoria emerged from the bathroom with a hairbrush and a spray bottle. Miranda cringed.

Here comes the hard part, she groaned in a hushed voice. Miranda reached for the brush and bottle as Victoria turned around.

After spraying her head thoroughly, Miranda brushed through her hair and Victoria's face crinkled in pain. I saw tears form in her eyes.

I'm so sorry, Victoria, Miranda said with a sad look on her face.

Oh heck, I stood up and grabbed the brush. I brushed through the tops of her hair where it wasn't so bad and finger combed the rest of her hair easily. You got any rubber bands or ties? I asked without looking at Miranda and started braiding.

Here, I could hear the relief in Miranda's voice.

Once we were finished, Victoria got her pajamas off and started to slip on her uniform.

Good job, it doesn't look like she has one knot in her head. Miranda laughed.

My mother had issues with my crazy thick hair when I was younger. We'll condition her hair with detangle lotion tonight and then brush it all out. I shrugged.

What about tomorrow morning? Miranda smirked.

We'll braid her hair before bed and then tomorrow it will be easier to brush when we take the braids out. I winked at her. Another mom trick, I smiled and put the brush on Victoria's dresser.

Once Victoria was dressed, we made our way downstairs where Miranda fixed breakfast before we climbed into the car for the drive to school.

This is a Lexus, I choked.

The SUV. Miranda nodded with a slight shrug.

This is the car he provides?

Mm Hmm. She answered and pulled out of the driveway.

I'm terrified I'll wreck it. I sighed. Miranda just laughed.

It wasn't a long drive to St. John's Prep School and soon we pulled up to the curb. It was very reminiscent of scary B horror flick. The same black SUVs all lined up, with children in the same clothes stepping out onto the curb in unison. I shuddered for a moment at the creepy picture my imagination was forming. Shaking it off, I climbed out of the car.

There were young women helping young kids out of the cars and into the school, which I assumed were all nannies. I shook my head at the thought of all of these children being raised by non-blood related persons, instead of their biological parents. However, there was one woman there who was pregnant and for a moment I considered she could still be a nanny, but as we got closer I realized by the size of the ring on her finger there was no way in hell she was anyone's nanny.

Good morning, Victoria. The dark skinned woman looked down at Victoria with a large smile.

Good morning, Mrs. Wright. She smiled, gave a small wave, disappearing into the stone building.

Hello, Miranda. The woman turned to me and smiled.

Oh, crap, Mrs. Wright this is Sophia. She will be taking over with Victoria when I leave at the end of the week. Rand turned to me. Sophia, this is Mrs. Wright, her and her husband are very close friends with the Bishops.

It's a pleasure to meet you. I held out my hand.

She took it and shook it. Welcome. If you need any help, you just let me know. Albert and Victoria are in the same grade; though my oldest Rachel is a year ahead. She smiled warmly and I nodded.

Thank you.

Sure, now I should get going. I'm starving. She laughed and rubbed her stomach.

It's nice to see one mother here. I stated and climbed back into the car.

Yeah, Mrs. Wright is a very friendly and attentive mother. Miranda smiled. You’ll get familiar with their nanny Ella.

We headed back to the house and Miranda ran me through things I needed to do during the day; though I would have a few hours in the afternoon to myself. Writing would definitely be possible with this free time.

The rest of the week went about in the same fashion, with minor changes. Miranda showed me around the house; bedrooms, spare rooms, Dr. Bishop’s office, kitchen, laundry room, library, and so forth. I took time to get familiar in the kitchen and the rest of the house.

Miranda introduced me to Mrs. Baker, the housekeeper. She didn't live in the house, but arrived every morning and left just before dinner most days.

It's a pleasure to meet you. I put my hand out after our introduction.

And a pleasure to meet you as well, if you need anything, you just let me know. She smiled warmly at me and then turned to Rand. I’m going to miss you, sweetheart. She pulled Rand into a large hug.

I promise to call you and try to visit as much as I can. Rand bargained.

You better. Mrs. Baker patted her back and released her.

We left Mrs. Baker downstairs and spent a couple of hours going over items in the binder. Then we left to pick up Victoria together for the last time. I had one question, which had been eating away at me during the week.

"Rand, why haven't we seen Dr. Bishop at all this week? Wouldn't he want to check in on –"

When I said he won't be much of a bother, I meant it. There really isn’t any interaction on his part. He works insane hours, travels, and your form of communication is the slot I showed you on his study door or cell phone. She sighed. It's sad, I know, but just think, you’ll be able to handle things without his interruptions.

You knew it would bother me the way he ignores her. She cringed away from me. Why did you put the request in at the service for me to replace you?

Shock spread on her face once I admitted my knowledge of her 'personal' request. She pulled over to the side of the road and turned to me.

Sophia, you are the most loving, care free, yet responsible person I’ve ever met. I think Victoria needs someone like you in her life. She dropped her head and knotted her fingers together in her lap.

Miranda…

Sophia, she needs to live like a child once in awhile, but I'm just…I'm not the one who can do it now. She brought her eyes up to my face. Remember Violet? I nodded and smiled. She was so quiet and withdrawn when you first starting caring for her at the beginning of the summer, but by the end she was so full of life. She released a longing sigh. I was so jealous of the effect you had on her and wished I could do that for Victoria, but –

Miranda Murphy! You are damn good with her and at being a care giver and you shouldn't doubt –

I don't doubt it. She smiled warmly. I just wish I could sometimes bring Victoria out of the shell she lives in.

Not sure what else to say, I opened my mouth, but closed it. Miranda put the car back into gear, returning to the stream of traffic which seemed to be headed in the same direction.

That evening, after Victoria's Spanish lesson, we said goodbye to Miranda. Victoria's tears continued and I stayed in bed with her until she’d finally cried herself to sleep. After tucking her in, I picked up her clothes, dropping them in her hamper on the way out of her room.

Miss Ashwood? His cold voice startled me.

Turning slowly, Dr. Bishop stood just at the top of the stairs.

Yes sir?

I take it Ms. Murphy has gotten you up to speed on everything? He raised his eyebrow.

I nodded. Yes, sir, she has.

Good. He paused and looked at his watch. Is she well?

I furrowed my brow in confusion.

Victoria, he explained It's quite late, is she feeling well?

Oh, um…yes sir she's fine, just upset at Rand…Ms. Murphy's departure this evening. I smiled, but as his eyes bore into mine the smile faltered. A chill began to form in the space between us.

I see. His eyes didn't leave my face.

I was starting to fidget and fidgeting wasn't something I’d done since I was a kid. Needing to get away from the discomfort, I blurted, Is there anything else?

He looked at me stunned for a moment and then his fists clenched tightly at his sides.

No, good night. He stiffened and headed toward his bedroom.

Once I was in my room, I released a loud nervous breath.

Jesus, he's intense I groaned, contemplating painting some lamb’s blood over my door.

Chapter Three

Victoria's schedule was extreme. I woke at five and Victoria at six, just to prepare for the day. Of course my first week with Victoria alone was a challenge. I tried to keep to the routine Miranda had set up, but I wasn't Miranda. There were certain things I did differently and Victoria definitely let me know she wasn’t pleased.

I don't get dressed in the bathroom. She argued when I walked in with her clothes for school. Miranda always lays them on the bed. She marched out and stood next to her bed with her arms crossed over her chest. I followed her and laid her items onto her bed.

I know Miranda did things a certain way and you are used to that, but things will be a little different. Okay?

All I got was a shrug as she pulled her clothes on over her head.

Alright, well meet me in the kitchen while I go get – She spun around with wide eyes.

Miranda always walked me down to the kitchen. Her words were a little harsh demanding.

Now, I wanted to be sensitive to her situation, knowing she was acting out because of Miranda being gone. However, I wasn't about to become a doormat for a six year old girl either.

If you would like for me to walk down with you, then you could ask me nicely. If not, then I’m going to go start getting breakfast started so you aren't late for school. I gave a couple of minutes to respond, but all I got was her back.

I was in the kitchen for about five minutes when she trudged in, clearly still unhappy with me. Biting back my smile at her acting out, I slid a bowl of cereal in front of her and a banana.

Miranda always made me a warm breakfast. There was a hint of whine in her voice, but mostly it was more of a 'Miranda is better than you are' tone.

Leaning my forearms down to the cool marble countertop, I stared at her until she finally met my gaze.

Well, if someone hadn't argued with my time saving ideas this morning then we would have time for a nice warm breakfast, but… I let my sentence die and turned to load the dishwasher. When I turned back around she was still staring at the bowl. You're going to be awfully hungry.

With a huff and a drop of her shoulders she leaned over her bowl and picked up the spoon. The moment the bite went into her mouth her face crinkled up.

It's all soggy, she whined.

You shouldn't have been so stubborn. I turned back to the dishwasher and turned it on.

That was the last we spoke until I dropped her off at her school. When I offered her my hand to help her from the backseat of the car she snubbed me and 'accidentally' stepped on my toe when she landed. Without looking back she scurried off toward the school.

We would go through almost the same morning routine; dressing, disagreeing, and practicing words or math, being told how Miranda did things, eating breakfast, and then the drop off at school. One thing I noticed during the first week was that not one morning did we see Doctor Bishop.

In the afternoons I worked on my writing; making notes, outlining, and researching. After a couple of hours I would straighten up my room, Victoria's room, do my laundry, talk with Mrs. Baker for a bit, eat lunch, and if I had errands to run I would do those before picking Victoria up.

Once Victoria was picked up would try to discuss her day and homework on our way back to the house. She was still reluctant to cooperate with me and wouldn't tell me about her day, only what homework she needed help with.

Homework was completed first while she ate a snack. Then it was on to her assigned activity for the day. There was so much scheduled for her; Piano, Ballet, Riding, Spanish, and Karate lessons outlined her week. The poor girl really had a whirlwind of a day.

The craziness of her constant schedule and being without a mother were the main reasons I tried really hard to give her the time she needed to adjust to Miranda's absence. She was used to her regimented life and the way Miranda had done things. My approaches to things were different and she had a hard time with it. It had become too frustrating for both of us and the tension was out of control. Something had to be done and without her father to discuss the situation with, I was left to resolve it.

It was over ice cream at a local, neutral territory, shop where we hashed out the constant push and pull. We agreed that I was indeed a different person, which meant I wouldn't always do things the way she did. However, we also agreed to keep some of Miranda's ways in place. During the conversation, I realized this was a 'trying not to forget Miranda' deal for her. With one more scoop of ice cream and a verbal promise to make plans with Miranda, I was sure progress had been made.

The weeks following had been much easier going. We would lay out Victoria's clothes on her bed, as Miranda had done with her and she didn't complain if I put the peanut butter on top of the jelly instead of the other way around.

After receiving a phone call from Roberto stating he would not be able to make it for Victoria's Spanish lesson, due to illness, I made mental plans. Once I’d made them, I hoped our recent 'truce' was still being upheld.

I was standing at the gate waiting for them to release the bundles of energy locked up behind those doors. My excitement was up so high I was almost dancing around in the spot I stood. I couldn't wait to tell Victoria my plans for the afternoon.

You must be the new Bishop Nanny? I turned and looked into beautiful dark as night eyes set against dark skin and framed with long straight black hair. I would guess she was Hawaiian. Her skin was so beautiful and the only flaw was a four inch scar on her chin; however, it was so light I couldn't truly call it a flaw. It was more like character.

Yes, I smiled brightly and put my hand out. I'm Sophia.

Hi, my name is Ella. I am the nanny for the Wright's, Albert and Rebecca. She smiled warmly, but definitely noticed how my eyes had been drawn to her scar for a moment. She gave me a warm smile, Car accident.

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be rude.

It's no big deal. So, how is it so far?

Pretty good, I shrugged. I mean, it's really just Victoria and me every day, and I don't have any issues between the two of us.

Yeah, sometimes I envied Miranda for not having the parents around like I do. She snorted. But then again, Mr. and Mrs. Wright are so nice I really couldn't have gotten luckier. There was a short pause in the conversation. How's Victoria handling Miranda being gone?

Oh, well, she had a really rough first week. She was pretty sad about it, but she has started to get used to me. Plus we call Rand at least once a week.

That's great. Next time you talk with her tell her I said hello and she had better not have forgotten about me all ready. She winked at me.

I will pass along the message.

Then the sounds of tennis shoe stampede filled the air. I turned and saw the daily chaos of bows, hair, skirts, and backpacks everywhere. I spotted my little red head and smiled with a happy sigh.

I see Victoria. I turned to Ella. It was nice to meet you. I'm sure we will see each other around.

Definitely, she smiled and waved.

On my way toward Victoria I spotted a dark haired boy looking around on his tip toes.

Can I help you find someone?

He got really shy for a second and then peeked up at me.

I can't find my mom.

Oh, well let's try to fix that. Who is your mom? I smiled at him and leaned down to hear his answer.

Lindsey Wright, he whispered.

I smiled at him. You know what I think Ella is over there waiting for you today.

Ella is here? his face lit up and then a taller dark haired girl ran up behind him.

Come on Al! Ella is over there. She eyed me curiously before she grabbed his arm and pulled him toward Ella. I turned my attention back to Victoria who was looking at me with a large smile.

Come on girlie. It's time to go home! I gave her a big wave over and she ran toward me. I saw the mischievous little smile on her face and knew what she was up to immediately. I put my arms out as she jumped up and wrapped her arms around my neck.

I got you. She laughed.

Yes you do. I carried her to the car, putting her down when we got next to it. So, how much homework do you have tonight?

She shrugged.

Not too much, just some math practice. She groaned. Victoria had trouble with math which we had been working on each day. I should have it done before Roberto arrives. She sighed.

There will be no Roberto for you today. I closed the door behind her after she was buckled into the back seat. I climbed into the driver's seat and closed the door.

What do you mean?

Roberto is sick, so he can't make it tonight. I smirked. But I have other plans.

Where are we going?

It's a surprise. I looked in my rearview mirror and saw the apprehension on her face.

About twenty minutes later I parked the car and opened her door.

Come on. I urged her.

She climbed out hesitantly and looked around the large open area covered with twisted colorful metal and plastic. Kids were hanging from bright yellow monkey bars and sliding down neon orange slides that came out of bright blue plastic towers. I knelt down in front of her and zipped her jacket up a little more and then pulled her face to look at me.

We are going to have some fun. I smiled large and put my hand out for her. She took it slowly and I ran us to the large playground at the center of the park. What do you want to do first? I turned and looked down at her. She shrugged.

Come on, let's slide! I pulled her toward the bright red steps leading to the blue tower. The slide had to be almost ten feet high. We got to the top and I pulled her in front of me in the line of kids waiting to go down.

I don't think I can do this. She wrapped her arms around my waist tightly, burying her face in my stomach.

We'll do it together. I stepped us to the edge and sat down with her between my legs.

Ready, set, GO! I laughed as I shoved us down the spiral slide. I could hear her giggle all the way down.

Hopping off the slide to make room for the next kid she turned to me.

That was…that was sooo cool! She bounced with excitement.

Let's do it again! I grabbed her arm, but this time she pulled me up the steps. After four more times down the slide she finally went on her own. I stood at the bottom and smiled at her face as she came down.

Can we swing? She looked at me as she ran over from the slide. I was happy she finally loosened up.

Of course we can. I grabbed her hand and we ran over to the red and yellow swings. We took two free swings and jumped on. I bet I can swing higher than you. I teased.

Nuh-uh! She laughed as she pumped her legs harder and harder. We laughed and swung for awhile.

Watch this! I prepared myself and leapt from the moving swing, flying in the air and onto my feet. I spun around. Ta Dah! I put my hands in the air and she laughed loudly. Don't you do that! I laughed and pointed at her.

She slowed her swing and then hopped off, but her footing wasn't good and she slipped. I ran over. Her little body was now on its hands and knees against the ground.

Are you okay? Her eyes were wide and worried as she stood up. What's wrong?

I'm sorry. She said.

What for?

I'm gonna get us in trouble now. She put her head down and brushed furiously at her skirt.

Huh? Wait…trouble for what? I pulled her face to look at mine.

Look she motioned to the dirt mark on her skirt. Daddy will be so mad I ruined my uniform. She started to sniff.

None of that now, She looked at me curiously. That, I pointed to her skirt, is nothing. I'll have it washed before you get into bed tonight. I smiled at her as the corners of her mouth started to turn up.

You will? She blushed slightly.

Yep, I grinned, No one will know, but you and me. I put my hand over my heart. Nanny swear!

What's a Nanny swear? Her face scrunched up in confusion.

A Nanny Swear means it's our secret. I winked at her and took her hand. We do need to get back to the house though. I've got dinner to make and you have math to do. She groaned and I laughed. I promise we will make math fun tonight. She nodded and we skipped back to the car together. A leaf had turned over for the both of us.

Once we were home and Victoria was changed, I threw her uniform in the washer and started dinner. Victoria sat at the breakfast bar in the kitchen with her math paper while I cooked.

Urghh! I can't get them! She pouted and tossed her pencil down onto the counter top.

Let me see. I slid the paper across the marble top so that it was in front of me. Ah this is easy. I know what you need. I walked to the cupboard and pulled out a bag of M&M's, opened the bag and dumped them on the counter in front of Victoria. Okay, so count out eight M&M's for me. She looked at me like was crazy. Go on.

One, two, three, her tiny fingers slid the multicolored circles into a pile of eight, four, five, six, seven, and eight.

Good. So, your math problem is eight minus three. So, take away three M&M's from the pile of eight. She raised her eyebrow at me and I laughed. I leaned forward on the counter and grouped her pile of eight in between us. So we have eight M&M's here, right? I looked up and she nodded. Eight, I took three M&Ms, minus three, I popped them in my mouth, is what?

She counted the remaining M&Ms.

Five, She said with a giggle.

Exactly! See you got it. Try another one. I pushed the paper back over to her and turned back to the stove.

Nine minus five, I heard the crunch of the M&Ms in her mouth. Is four!

I laughed and nodded. Looking over my shoulder I saw her writing her answers down on her paper. Victoria finished her math practice and we sat down for dinner. Once we were done eating, she helped me clean up the dishes and I hung her uniform up to dry before heading up to her room.

Well, its Friday night, so no school tomorrow. I sat down on her bed. What do you want to do tonight?

Can we watch a movie? She climbed up on the bed next to me.

Sure. What do you want to watch? I already knew the answer.

The Little Mermaid!

I laughed and stood up to put in the movie.

Go get your pajamas on and I'll hurry and get mine before it starts. We'll race. I set up the DVD and tossed the remote on the bed before rushing to my room to change.

I threw my clothes into the hamper and slid on some yoga pants and a tank top. Then I hurried downstairs and popped some popcorn in the microwave. I tossed the bag after dumping out the super buttery treat into a large yellow plastic bowl.

I brought popcorn, I shouted as I opened the door, And drinks! I held up the bottles of water. Then I heard Sebastian speaking and looked at the screen. I can't believe that you didn't wait for me. I put the popcorn and water down before running over to Victoria's bed, tackling and tickling her.

I'm sorry, she laughed out loudly. Stop please, I'm sorry. She laughed. I let her go with a laugh and pulled the popcorn bowl onto the bed with us. We sat eating as we watched Ariel try to get Eric to kiss her, and Ursula tried to seduce him away.

When I woke up it was pitch black in Victoria's room. I sat up and looked down at Victoria's sleeping form next to me. I didn't remember turning off the movie or the TV, and I sure as heck don't know what happened to the popcorn bowl. Deciding to not worry about it, I got up and headed to my room. A few hours later I felt a shift of my bed and jerked my head up.

Wake up, wake up, wake up, Victoria was bouncing next to me. I laughed and grabbed her, pulling her down onto the bed and tickling her.

You go brush your teeth and I will meet you at the top of the steps in five minutes. Okay?

She nodded and ran out of the room. My bladder was begging for relief, so I went to my bathroom. Once that was taken care of I washed my hands and then my face. As I patted my face dry I looked into the mirror.

My skin looked drastically pale and I hoped it was just the harsh bright light of the bathroom's vanity. I leaned in closer and examined my face. No new breakouts, just the same pale skin, blue eyes, and long dark brown hair. I huffed and tossed my hand towel next to the sink. Most people complain about how unattractive they are; however, I didn't think of myself as unattractive, just common.

Sophia, are you ready yet?

With one last sigh at my reflection, I shut off the bathroom light and went to meet Victoria at the top of the steps.

In the kitchen we had music playing while Victoria mixed the pancake mix and I finished the bacon. We were both singing and laughing when I heard someone walk into the kitchen. Quickly I turned around, sighing in relief when I saw Mrs. Baker standing there with a wide smile on her face.

Good morning lovelies, she smiled.

Good morning Mrs. Baker, Victoria and I said in unison. She laughed.

Did you wash her uniform yesterday?

I felt Victoria tense up. I put my hand on her shoulder.

Yeah, I had to wash some things for myself, so I just threw it in. You don't mind do you?

Heck no! She chuckled. I just wanted to make sure I wasn't missing a uniform.

You hungry? I motioned to the bacon on the plate in front of me. We have plenty. I practically sang it out.

Oh, I really shouldn't, I have a lot of…

Oh, come on. I grabbed an empty plate and placed it on the counter.

Okay, Mrs. Baker smiled and sat down. Are you making the pancakes Victoria?

Yep! She smiled brightly at Mrs. Baker. It took two cups of mix, one egg, one tablespoon of oil, and one cup of milk.

Good remembering, I patted her butt lightly. I think it's all mixed up. I need to get those on the griddle. I pulled at my hair to get it away from my face.

Let me help you with that. Mrs. Baker took my hair into her hands and twisted it into a knot.

Thank you, I breathed out and picked up the bowl to start pouring the batter out into even circles.

No problem, she waved off my thanks. I remember when I was younger and my hair was long like yours.

I glanced to her with a small smile as she reminisced.

Of course, my hair was never that straight or soft. Have you ever died it or anything?

I thought about it. You know like highlights or something. I even considered getting one of those chin length bobs at one point. I shrugged.

Don't you dare, Mrs. Baker scolded with a chuckle. Your hair is gorgeous and it's perfect on you. That dark brown hair really making those baby blues stand out, and the porcelain skin you have…whew…what I wouldn't give to be your age with that combination.

I laughed lightly.

Oh, you just wait when you're an old woman like me.

Non-sense, I snapped at her playfully. You are one hot mama. I winked.

Victoria giggled and I bumped hips with her.

It didn't take long to cook the pancakes and we soon were all seated together in the kitchen eating stacks pancakes and bacon. We were all laughing loudly when a stiff throat clearing made me flip around in my seat. I was met with the cool gaze of Dr. Bishop.

Collin dear… Mrs. Baker stood up and walked over to him. How are you this morning?

Good and you? His eyes didn't leave mine, but I tore from his gaze and turned back to my plate.

Well, thanks to Victoria and Sophia, it has been a very wonderful morning, I could hear the smile in her voice and saw it on her lips when I looked up to smile at her, Thank you for breakfast dear.

No problem. I smiled back to her before turning to Victoria. Let's get this cleaned up, okay? She nodded uneasily and we stood to clean things up.

Were you hungry Dr. Bishop? I turned and looked over my shoulder at him, shocked his eyes were still on me.

No, thank you. I just came to grab some coffee. His cool melodic words almost felt like the first winter frost against my spine. I shook it off and finished cleaning up the breakfast mess in the kitchen.

Good morning Victoria, I watched her eyes widen before she turned around with a smile.

Good morning daddy. He walked passed her and poured his coffee before leaving the room. Her face fell.

Why don't you head up to your room and get dressed? You have Karate class in about three hours, so just put on something you can easily change out of later. She nodded and ran toward the stairs.

Don't run in the house. I felt the shiver against my spine again. I could have sworn he left the room, but when I turned I discovered he was in the door way of the kitchen watching me.

Is there something you wanted Dr. Bishop? I had given up waiting for him to say whatever it was he needed to say.

Did Victoria have her Spanish lesson yesterday? He sipped his coffee, practically leering over the rim.

No sir, Roberto cancelled due to an illness. I wiped off the counter where Victoria had mixed up the pancake batter.

So, what did the two of you do yesterday? He raised one eyebrow at me. I was really starting to hate that little patch of hair above those stone cold emeralds.

I took her to the park for some physical activity before we came home and practiced her math. I smiled and turned back to the sink.

The park?

Yes, I answered shortly.

I don't think that is necessarily educational, Miss Ashwood. He had his condescending tone, just like in my interview. The bubbling of irritation started to rise inside of me.

Roberto's cancellation was very last minute, so I went with a physical activity that would allow her enough time to practice her math before dinner. I stood facing him from behind the counter.

He looked as if he were trying to read my face before he abruptly turned around and walked away.

Good God, he is such a…a…ugh! I tossed the cloth into the sink and headed toward Victoria's room. If I ever got my hands on clippers at night that condescending eyebrow was getting buzzed off.

September passed and October arrived with a full color palate of orange, red, yellow, and brown. Hints of green still peeked out in some places. Victoria was coming along in her math, but still seemed to be struggling just a little. Though, I swear the level of math that they forced on first graders was absolutely ridiculous and was just used to stress out the poor kids.

Today was her piano lesson with Pierre and it was amazing how good she was. I could only dream of playing like that; however, just like everything else, she was pushed for perfection. It frustrated me to watch her drive herself to such extremes. After Pierre left she sat at the piano for another hour practicing on her own. When I couldn't take it anymore I pulled her away to get a bath and ready for bed.

Tomorrow is my big math test, she sighed heavily as I tucked her into bed.

You know what? She looked at me. If you get an A on your math test I will let you dress me up however you want for the day.

She laughed.

Two different shoes? I nodded, even though that remark was making me nervous about the deal.

They can't be like one heel and one tennis shoe though. I have to be able to walk. She giggled and nodded. I kissed her head and