Emma went to meet her bank manager for the loan, but the bank manager was only able to give her five hundred thousandloan saying that her income is not much and he would not want her to lose her house because of the loan, so had no option than to take it like that, although was expecting to get more than that. The next day she was directed to alpha estate when she was looking for vacant store that Kate could use, the store she saw there was very nice and the estate is occupied by rich men and well to do families. Kate could sell baby clothes and toys for any price and no one would mind in this estate. She also helped Kate order for the goods like baby clothes, diapers, toys and some others. She painted and set up the store, brought carpenter that fixed the shelfs for display of products within few days she got everything ready. When she had put everything in place, she then left to meet Kate and inform her that her shop is ready.
Kate was allowed to take her son home on the condition that they get his drugs for him so he won’t have any issue during his stay at home. She and her son got to spend quality time together and bonded like never before. Zika’s state of health seems to be in perfect condition throughout those few days. On this day they were at home playing a ludo game when Emma entered, she was so close to the family so she had her own key. Zika saw her immediately and stopped playing the game. He rushed to hug her.

“Welcome Aunty Emma.”
“Thank you my darling, how are you doing.”
“Am fine.”
“That’s good, guess what.”
“You bought something for me.”
“Haa! Zika you too like gift.”
Surprised Emma said “Wow! My baby guessed well. Yes I got something for you, open my bag and check.”.
“Thank you Aunty.”
 he gave her a peck and rushed to check the bag.
“Kate my dear am sorry that I have not been able to visit you for a while now, I have been really busy that’s why.”
Kate looking at the friend apologizing for not visiting wonders what type of person she is, “It’s okay Emma u don’t have to come here every day, that would be stressful to you.”
Emma shaking her head in disagreement
 “Please I need to, you and Zika are my only family so allow me take care of you.
“Okay I give up, arguing with you does not always work in my favor.”
 “Thank God you know, next time don’t argue with me. Can you accompany me somewhere please.”
“Where are we going to?”
“You will see it when we get there but it’s not somewhere bad so put your mind to rest.”
Kate still looking at Emma suspiciously got up and said “Alright let me change to something better.”
While Kate went to change her clothes, Emma went in search of Zika, She saw him eating meat-pie, part of the things she bought for him on her way here. They both began to chat, Zika told her how they spent their day, he told her of the games he played with his mother and emerged the winner. While they were still chatting, Kate came out dressed in a white gown
 “Let’s go.”
“Zika bye see you later.”
“Zika remember, stay indoors no going out if I see you outside when I come back, I will be angry.”
“Okay mummy I won’t.”

She and Kate left in her car. They drove to alpha estate, she wanted to surprise her with the already arranged store. On Alpha estate, she stopped in-front of a building that looks like no one leave there. Kate was wondering why she brought her to the place, was looking around in-order to get her answers. She went and open one of what looks like a store there, Kate was still looking at her without saying a word. The shop she opened was looking very good, I was neatly arranged and the goods were displayed properly.
“I wish this is my shop.”
Kate wished in her heart. Emma went as far as entering
 “Come in.”
Kate went inside although she was a little scared that they might be trespassing,

“what are we doing here, is this not someone‘s shop that you just opened like this.”
“Yes it’s someone’s shop and I also know that the owner of the shop won’t do anything once she learns am the one that trespassed In her shop.”
 “Oh! It’s even a woman’s Shop, please come out from this shop to avoid insults.”
Emma was busy laughIng at her all these while, “Kate check these goods and the setting do you like it?”
“Did you say like, I love it like everything about this shop, starting from the Products itself, the Choice of paint and how the goods are displayed. I just wish I would be able to design my shop like this when I start my own business.”
 “What do you mean by when you get a shop, I thought you already have a shop or do you want to have two?”
“Me, have a shop from where? Are you being serious right now or you want to mock me?”
“Ha! Why are you talking like this, you know I can’t do that. I honestly thought u already have a shop, Wait if you don’t have a shop, who then owns this one?”
Kate was lost for a moment; she was just looking at Emma confused. What does she mean that the she brought her to belongs to her? Is it mockery or what?
“How do you mean.”
“What I mean is that this shop belongs to you Kate, remember the business we discussed that you would start, this is it.”
“Is a lie.”
“Am serious, within those days that I didn’t come to your place, I was busy getting this shop ready.”
Out of happiness, Kate jumps up and hugged her so tight, she was already in tears, “What would I have done without you, my God will replenish your pocket.”.
“Enough of this emotional moment let’s go and celebrate this progress.
They both drove out to celebrate

         * * * * * * * * *
It’s been weeks now, Kennedy has been living a stress free life since his parents took Bella with them. He wakes up in the morning and prepares for work, he didn't have to deal with Bella’s disturbance as he calls it. His happiness during these few weeks knew no bound. But his joy was cut short when he got a call from the mom informing him that she would bring Bella back home because she was to travel out of the country for a business meeting. She was going to leave just him and Bella, he has not been able to get a new Nanny since the last one left. He has contacted different agencies for this job yet none has been able to match his description. A part of him wanted to assume his mom was joking when she called so he called her a bluff and didn’t do anything about a new nanny. On this day he came back from work as usual to relax then meet his mother with Bella waiting for him to return from work. Immediately he saw them his mind skipped for he does not know how to take care of a baby. Mrs Washington saw her son and was relieved, “Thank God you are back, I have to get going now I still need to get few things for my travel.”
 “Mom wait please, you know I can’t take of Bella all by myself, why did you bring her back knowing fully well that I have not gotten a nanny.”
she gave him a surprised look
“what would you have me do.”
“You can leave her with your cook, she is a woman.”
“Well I won’t do such a thing, you have to take care of her yourself after she is your daughter.”
 “But mom you know...”
Kennedy tries to speak but was cut short by Mrs Washington who Chipped in, “I don’t have time for right now, I have to go, will call to check on you guys later. Having said that.”
Kennedy stood fixed there, confusion was written all over, he had no idea on where to start. He doesn’t even know what to feed her and how change her diapers. He was like someone sent on a fruitless journey with no idea on how to start.
Meanwhile Kate has settled in properly in her new shop, luck has been on her side by protecting Zika from any medical break down. Zika has been strong and healthy for more than a month now. Her business has been booming, the people in the estate patronize her very well. At time she sells times two of the initial price yet no one seems to mind at all. From her savings she was able pay back the #500,000 loan that was used to start the business.

Kennedy has been taking care of Bella with the help of john, his gate man while in search of a nanny to hire. His life has been disorganized these few days. He no longer frequents his office like before, even when he would go, he would be late. This situation made him think of his wife a lot. If she was here, Would he be going through all these? Oh death! You have done your worst.

He enrolled Bella in creche where teachers take care of her in the day and once it’s evening, he takes her home. Weekends has turned to his worst days recently. The creche where he drops Bella does not during weekends, so he left with no option than to stay home and take care of Bella.

“Hello madam, have you been able to get the nanny that I requested for?” He asked someone on call.

“No sir, our organization is currently not hiring now and the ones we have are all taken.”

What do you mean, you are currently not hiring? I don’t care what it takes I need a nanny at all cost. So you need to do something real fast about it.” He barked into his cell phone and squeezed his temples as a headache started to threaten. He’d just sat down on the cushion to rest after being up all night

and with a single call, his whole day had been derailed. He loved his daughter, truly he did, but taking care of a baby is one thing he had no clue of. This was his fifth agency he has contacted so far since his mom brought Bella back. All has given him negative replies regarding his request. He was becoming frustrated already.

“I would see what I can do so. Please exercise patience.”

“Patience is something I can’t afford. Get me a nanny!” He hanged up before the lady could reply and cursed. What the hell was he going to do? He couldn’t clear his calendar and stay home with Bella. John would quit, too, after a day or two. He needed a new nanny, and fast.

He kept on tapping his feet on the floor impatiently, hates being out of control and in this situation he has no idea on what to do n how to do it. He decided to try his luck with his mum again. Maybe she might reconsider and come back.

“Hello mum.”

“Hello darling. How are you and my granddaughter doing today?”

Thank God, she is a good mood. He thought.

“We are not fine mom. Am finding it difficult coping with taking of Bella and work also. Mom, please come back or better still let me take Bella to the house so she can stay with Dad and your cook.”

“You would do no such thing, ken. You have to adjust your schedule in other to meet up with both. At least until I come back and am not ready to come back unless I finish all that I came here to do.”

“Mom, this is not fair at all.”

“Sweetheart, I have to go now. I was doing something before you called. Bye. Love you.”

“Mom wait... she hanged up before he could finish. He threw away his phone out of anger.

This is bad! This is bad!

He heard Bella crying in the room. She must have woken up. She kept him up all night, crying. She finally slept after many attempts by Kennedy to calm her down. Just when he is about getting his sleep, she wakes up.

“Oh my God! I can’t keep doing this. I just can’t.”

He left to tend to Bella’s need.

It’s a new week without a nanny. For Kennedy it was a new week of misery. He dropped Bella off at the creche as usually. But this time around he didn’t add an extra diapers and wipes, In case she needs to changed. Even the extra clothing added was just one. He was given a list of what the baby pack should contain while bringing her to school. Well he had no idea that the diapers and wipes were not part of the things packed because the bag was packed by john and not him. It turns it out that they ran out of diapers and wipes, yet the gate man didn’t mention it to him.

“Mr. Kennedy, I noticed you didn’t add extra diapers and wipes in the bag you packed for Bella.” Bella’s teacher informed him when he came to pick her up.

“How do you mean? It’s should be there. I make sure to add them each day she comes here.” He was surprised, he always made sure to adhere to instructions when given one. That’s why he normally goes through the bag each time the gate man was done packing. This morning was different, he was late and he thought the gate man must have gotten used to packing the bag.

“Well I didn’t see anything inside the bag, please there should be no repeat of that. One more thing, the extra clothing should be two pairs and not one.

“Alright I will make sure it’s done just the way you instructed.” He affirmed and then carried Bella back home.

He got home, searched for diapers and wipes but couldn’t find one.

“Where are the diapers? I can’t seems to find them and the teacher even complained that you didn’t pack them in Bella’s bag today.” He went to inquire from the gate man.

“Sir, e don finish.”

“John! In English.” Kennedy cautioned.

“Sir, the diapers has finished, even the wipes. The last one was what she wore before going to school.” John  said, moving away from his boss to avoid being beaten by him. He knows his boss liked having things in place and gets angry if they are not.

Kennedy tried to keep his calm, he was carrying his child and wouldn’t want to upset her in the process of scolding the gate man. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Am sorry sir, I wanted to tell you but it skipped my mind.”

Kennedy heard a sigh. “Do you know where they sell baby things around here?”

“Yes sir, there this new shop that opened in this estate. They sell baby things there and their shop full well. Am sure you can get anything you want there.”

“Alright just hold Bella let me rush and pick few things there.”

John carried Bella and made to drop her on the floor.

“John! Don’t drop my child on the floor. If you want her to play around go get her sitter.” Bella was already comfortable, giggling at John.

Kate has stabilized in her business, she was no longer in debt, and she could afford Zika’s drugs and was saving up for his surgery. She was seated outside her shop, looking around when a car parked in front of her shop. The driver came down talking to someone on the phone. She coolly evaluated the man standing and staring at her while talking on his iPhone. The suit was, to her experienced eye, a Brioni that cost as much as the entire goods in her shop had cost. He wore hand lasted wing tips, and his shirt seemed to be of high thread content Egyptian cotton, the tie looked French and was obviously silk. The “handkerchief that was folded and sticking out of his breast pocket matched the silk tie exactly. A Breitling chronograph peeked out from beneath one neatly shot French cuff. Not one wavy raven black hair was out of place over his chiseled face, and his steely blue eyes seemed to strip her down to her very bones.

   Kate felt naked as he stared at her but rather than be offended, she found herself oddly pleased by his hungry gaze.

Following the directions by John, Kennedy did not find it difficult locating the shop. As soon as he got down from his car, he got a call from John telling him to get toys for Bella to add to the once she had. John continued to rant about other things needed for Bella but Kennedy found himself distracted by the woman before him. Petite with a head of wild, dark brown curls. She looked familiar to him, but he just couldn’t place her. He wished he could. She was quite attractive and the first woman to catch his attention in a while.

“Welcome sir. How can I be of service to you?”

Kennedy looked straight into the biggest pair of brown eyes he’d ever seen. They were framed by the mess of wild brown curls he’d spied earlier and a wide, instantly charming smile. The woman stood up immediately she saw him.

Instantly, his mind went completely blank, and his mouth bone-dry. His nervous system was shooting sparks through his whole body just from a quick glance over her petite curves. There was something about her that was so familiar to him, but he was certain he would have remembered meeting a woman like this.

She was not the kind of woman he would forget. “Sir, are you okay?”

Kennedy realized he was staring at the woman without saying a word, like some kind of creep. What had she asked him? What he wanted to buy? Right.

“I want diapers and wipes.” he said, hoping she wouldn’t notice that he was checking her out instead of list the items he wants.

“Alright will be right back.”

Once she turned, he had the chance to assess her properly. The woman didn’t exactly look like the kind of woman who could afford such business. Actually, she looked educated but has been struggling with life. He’d spent enough time around his mother over the years to know that the diamond studs in her ears were fake, her perfume has no name and her jeans were off the rack. She wore a T-shirt and a jean. It made him even more curious about where he knew this woman from. She was a sexy, walking contradiction.

“Here, I didn’t know the size you wanted so I brought different sizes. What’s the baby’s size?” she asked expertly.

“Well I have no idea, I have not gotten a diaper for her before.”

“Oh okay. How old is she maybe her age could help.”

“She is 6 or 7 months, am not sure anymore.”

"Is she your daughter?" curious to know if he was married.

"Yes she is"

Disappointment showed in her eyes, although she tried to hide it. She checked the diapers and then recommended one of them.

“This should suit her perfectly.” She handed him the items, her unexpected response to his touch confused her, she withdrew her hands quickly. Then hesitated for a second, looking at him curiously before she turned away and sat down.

A chime on his phone signaled a reminding text from John. Kennedy needs to think of how to get a nanny to do all these instead of ogling the woman before him. She had a fine set of curves and a wicked glint in her eye, but that didn’t do him any good at the moment.

“Do you have nice toys for baby girls?” He inquired wanting to prolong his stay.

“Yes sir. Let me get them.” She returned and hand few of them to him. “Do I know you?” she asked.

At least he wasn’t crazy. The woman seemed to recognize him as well. “I think so, but I haven’t been able to place your face. I’m Kennedy Washington. I’m an office manager.”

“Okay,” she said with a nod of recognition. Washington of Washington Co L.T.D. The who rejected her job application. She thought.

  “I’m Kate Martins. I came for an interview at your office, few months back.”

Right. The last interview he conducted, she was the woman desperate for the job. He almost hired her out of pity. His glance flickered over the curves hidden beneath her dress. She didn’t look this good, the first day he saw her. She must have covered these curves with her corporate dressing.

“Yes I remember you now. The lady that was crying because she didn’t get the job.

“Right.” she said with a bright smile, and slipped back into the seat.

“Am sorry you didn’t get the job that day.” He said remorseful, he felt bad seeing her now.

She smiled, “Am happy I didn’t get the job, Mr. Kennedy. So you don’t need to apologize.”

“Please call me Ken.” He was reminded of his first encounter with her when she called him Mr. Kennedy. “Am happy you have done well for yourself.”

“I can’t say I have but am grateful, I came this far.” She found herself extremely conscious of his sexual magnetism.

He nodded still staring, mesmerized by her lips. She moved it in ways that turned. God! He could watch her talk forever.

“Thank you, ken. She went ahead to pack the items he bought and he left. She stood there, watching as the car moves away, surprised at her bodies reaction to this man.

 Kate was mesmerized over the thought of Kennedy that she didn’t realize when Emma entered. She’d gone to pick up Zika from school. She feed him and gave him his drugs. She would have brought him to the shop with her but Kate doesn’t like it when he comes there. She feels he would be too exposed outside. It was for this reason, she enrolled him in a school with a private tutor for him alone.

Emma called out to her but she was so engrossed in her thoughts that she didn’t hear her name. She touched her, “I guess it's safe for me to come in now."

"Wait, what? Did you see him?" She asked pointing towards the direction Kennedy drove through.

"Yes, I was driving in when I saw you both, you two looked far too cozy for me to come in and interrupt you. So I decided to park down there.” She replied pointing down to where her car was packed.

"God Emma, I have never been so turned on by somebody talking to me."

"What did he say, come on, share."

Kate put her hands up to her cheeks. "Am I still blushing? Well he didn’t anything really. He just bought things and left.”

“Are you going to see him again?"

"How can I see him again; I only know his name and that I once attended an interview at his office in the past, nothing else

"Wait a minute, you were attracted to an incredibly sexy guy and you didn't give him your phone number?" Emma shook her head. "I can't believe you Kate. Rule number one. If you are interested, make sure they get your number."

"But he didn't ask for my number, he clearly wasn’t interested."

"I don’t think so, I think he is very much interested as you are. I saw his reaction to you. Did you see the way he looked at you. He looked at you with so much love, like he could eat you up right here.

“Well that’s the least of my problem now, you what my major concern is. Am not ready for any man yet."

"Even when you were blushing sheepishly before him few minutes ago."

"I wasn't, besides I have been to his office in search of a job but he didn’t give me. Do you think he would be interested in someone he refused to employ? Also he came to buy things for his daughter so he is married.” Kate said, pushing aside the thought of her having anything to do with Kennedy.

“how are you sure he is married, he might be divorced or it could be his sister’s daughter.” Emma continued persuading her.

“He said she is his daughter and which mother would leave a seven months old baby and walk away.”

“Well, we just have to keep our fingers crossed and hope he comes back.”

“Till then. How is Zika?”

“He is okay and resting when I left.”

Eyes filled with gratitude “thank you.”

Kennedy got home to Bella’s loud cry. He calmed her down, feed her and ensured she slept. When he was done, he sat down to finish the work he brought back from the office. he hardly spends time in his office so most of his work are taken back home. His thoughts wandered to the young woman he saw earlier today, now what did she her name was, Kate. Yes Kate. She had her curves in all the right places. So outspoken and feisty, a new trait to him, most of the women he met just hung onto his every word.

He frowned to himself thinking back to the first day he saw her. She looked naive and desperate then. But now she spoke with authority, her mouth was all he could think about. Those beautiful full bow shaped lips, all the time she spoke to him, he wondered what it would be like to kiss them, or better yet see them wrapped around his...

He waved his head, as if waving the thought away. But those legs, those sexy toned legs that appeared to go on for miles. He had been so tempted to slip his hands up to her thighs. Just the thought was getting him turned on already.

He sighed and went to fix himself a drink. Maybe the drink would help distract him from the thought of the woman.

Few days later, Kennedy continues with his normal schedule, drop Bella off in school then go to work. His thoughts throughout the night has been about Kate, he thought about what he would love to do to her and how she made him feel today.

On his way back from work, he intentionally went through the side of the road that leads to her shop, just to get a peck of her again.

He was a woman standing inside the shop and mistook her for Kate. He packed, pretended like he wants to buy something. He left Bella in the car, he wouldn’t want to give the woman a wrong impression.

“Hello” he greeted the lady inside.

“Welcome sir, how may I help you.” The woman turned to look at him. This was not the woman he meet the last time he came. The woman before him looked way different from the one he saw, though they might be in the same age range. This one looks sophisticated and exposed. Based on her dressing and the way she spoke, she must be from a rich family. She spoke like his rich friends.

She might be the owner of the business, the other woman must be working for him. Although the woman before him is stunningly beautiful, she didn’t have the same effect the other one had on him.

“Am looking for a woman, she sold something to me few days ago.”

“A lady... oh you mean Kate?”

“Yes. I think that’s her name. Is she around.” Kennedy asked trying to hide his anxiety. He felt like a little that went in search of his crush.

“No, she left few minutes ago. Any problem? Emma inquired, looking at the man suspiciously. She could swear she has seen that face before, just can’t place her hands on where and when.

This woman was already giving him suspicious looks like he was a pervert. Trying to cover up he replied “Nothing really just want to buy from her.”

“What would you like to buy I can sell to you.”

The only thing that could come to his mind was diapers and wipes. “I want diapers and wipes.”

“Alright, one second.”

She brought the items, he paid and left. Emma watched as he left disappointment was written all over him, like he was expecting something but didn’t get it. “What a strange man” she thought

***********

 “"Please tell me there is something to eat in this place, I am exhausted," said Emma, walking through the front door, throwing her bag in one direction and kicking off her shoes in the other. "It’s been such a long day. I need a drink, after talking all day my voice is shot."

"Welcome sweetie, I had a long day too, but found time to prepare some veg omelet.”

"Life saver, I knew there would be food here, that’s why I came here straight. All these junks that I eat must add to my waist line. “Emma pinched her nonexistent waist.

Sitting down at the table and grabbing a piece of the veg omelet…

“That reminds me, a man came by the shop, yesterday. He called himself, erhmmm... Kennedy i guess.”

“Oh, ken.” Her eyes lit up in excitement, checks were pink, she suddenly felt hot.

“Oh wait, is he the one I saw that day with you.”

She blushed “yes, he is the one.”

Emma was laughing, “no wonder his face was familiar. See the way you are blushing just by mere mention of his name.”

“Gosh, I don’t know why his name causes so much heat in my body.” She confessed

“If just a mere name can cause such heat, what about the real touch. I think you really should explore this one.”

“But he is married, also you know am struggling to save up money for Zika’s medical bills.”

“Well if you are with him, you won’t have to worry about Zika’s surgery. Have you had time to check him out properly, his car and dressing? Honey, that man is rich...” she continued to list out reasons Kate should be with this man.

Kate laughed, “so because he is rich, I should transfer my responsibilities to him. When do I even find time to explore this feelings like you advised. When am in the shop, or when am taking care of my son.”

Emma face became serious with concern. “Stop making excuses Kate, you deserve a chance to be happy again. I miss that part of you, ever since that ugly incident you have neglected yourself. Please just give this one a shot.”

“Hmmm, this tastes really good. Are you sure you made this.”

She teased Kate as she picked up another piece to munch.

“You have seen food now, so you can now run your mouth.” She said, they both laughed.

“Wait, I haven’t seen Zika, since I came. Where is he?” Emma asked searching around with her eyes.

“Zika is sleeping, I noticed he had fever when I came back so I gave him food, drugs and made him sleep.”

“Oh, no wonder I have not seen him.” They both chatted on about Zika’s disturbances.

********

Kennedy has been going on with his normal activities of taking care of Bella and work. He has been managing fine, the thought of Kate kept him busy each time he was not busy with work. He kept on hoping that one of the nanny agencies he contacted would respond soon.

He got a mail by one of the companies he worked with is inviting him for a conference which he was to travel for and spend days there. He had a problem which is , who would take care of Bella when he travels. He tried contacting the agencies again but they all seems to have the same problem. They are not hiring, they are out of staffs now and there is no nanny available to send to him. He called the mother but she told him that her coming back is not now. He even had to call the dad to beg his cook for help, but he was told she is on leave. Kennedy was in a fix, he didn’t know what else to do. The only person he could think of is the woman, he has not been able to get off his mind. Would she be willing to leave her job for the few days he would spend outside his home? Or better still he could employ her as his permanent nanny but that means seeing her every day. What would he tell her? How does one present a nanny proposal? How would he get rid of this feeling for her, if he was to hire her?

These were his thoughts.

But he was short of options, so he had to go. He dropped by her shop, on his way back from work. He wanted to leave Bella in the car but remembered the last time he left in the car, she cried heavily. To avoid a repeat of that, he carried her with him.

Kate has gone to see the doctor with Zika before going to the shop. His yesterday fever alarmed her.He ran few test on him, then told her that Zika needs to be admitted and she also need to get the money for the surgery because Zika was running out of time. This news left her devastated, she got to the shop in a foul mood. Thinking of her problems, she couldn’t help but start crying.

She heard a voice outside her shop but didn’t care to pay attention to the person, she buried her face in her hands.

“Hello” she heard a voice behind her. That  voice, she recognized that voice. How could she forget a voice that sends butterflies to her belly. A terrible tenseness gripped her as she turned to face. She tried to wipe her face as she turned. Now would be a good time for the ground to open up and swallow her, but she guessed that never happened in real life. She just smiled, watching his eyes widen. He was carrying a beautiful girl, she looked so much like him but prettier. Her mom must be a beauty queen.

“Hello Kate, good to meet you again.” He paused as he noticed the tears she was trying to wipe off. “Seems this is not a good time.” He said moving backwards.

Kate tried to smile, “no it’s fine, come in and have a seat.

“Are you sure? I can go back and come back some other time.”

She broadened her smile, “Am very sure, come right in. This must be your daughter.” She looked at Bella smiling, Bella giggled at her.

Kennedy stared at Bella, surprised at the way she bonded easily with Kate even though she met her. Bella usually avoid strangers, she doesn’t like being carried by strangers. It’s just him, John and her teacher that are allowed to touch her but seems the number is about to change, judging from her response to this woman.

“Yes she is my daughter, her name is Bella.” He replied staring at Bella proudly.

“Can I hold her.”

“Of course.”

Kate stretched out her hands to Bella and she rushed into them immediately. “Hey pretty baby.” She grinned at Bella and she giggled loudly, jumping up and down.

Surprised Kennedy exclaimed, “wow, that the first in a long while.”

“How do you mean?” Kate asked confused.

“Well apart from my mom, she rarely giggle at people.”

Kate sensed sadness in his voice, “What about her mother?” She asked, a part of her wants to know if he was available or married.

“She is no more. I lost her to the cold hands of death during childbirth.” His eyes saddened, his voice deep as if choked with tears.

Kate felt bad hearing he lost his wife. A part of her wish he was single but not for him to be a widower. “Am so sorry for your loss.” She looked at Bella tenderly with sadness, “poor baby, growing up without motherly love.” Bella started crying, she must have seen sadness in Kate’s face. “Shhh... am sorry, am not sad.” She smiled at Bella, she stopped crying and giggled at her.

Kennedy just stood there looking at Bella bond with Kate. It was almost like they share blood relationship like mother and daughter. This is exactly what he has been looking for in all these nannies he has been hiring. This woman, he could trust his child with but would she accept?  Determined to convince her, no matter what it might take, at least for some days.

“I would like to discuss something with you.” Kennedy started unsure of what her reaction would be.

“What is it? Is there any problem?” Curious Kate asked.

Kennedy not sure of how or where to start decided to explain the entire situation to her. “Well you see eh... I have been searching for a nanny ever since the previous one ran off with my money. I have tried contacting different agencies but, they all give me the same reply that there is no nanny available for now. My mother used to take care of Bella before, but she traveled out of the country on a business trip. So I have been the one taking care of Bella since then. I have to travel to travel on a very important business trip. I wouldn’t have considered traveling if it was not important but I can’t miss this meeting.” He paused.

Kate who has been listening attentively while rocking playing Bella on her laps. “And?” She asked wondering what all these stories got to do with her.

“Well am in desperate of someone to take care of Bella while am gone for the meeting. Then I thought of you, I came to ask you to work for me as my nanny?”

“Work for you?”

“Yes. I would pay you times of what they pay you here.” He offered.

Kate was surprised, so he thinks she worked for someone. She felt insulted, so he thinks because he didn’t give her a job, she couldn’t get anything else but the work of a sales person. “First of all sir, this is my shop, I work for no one here. I choose to open or to close.” Kate informed him angrily.

“Oh Gosh! So the shop actually belongs to her. But what of the other lady?” Kennedy thought aloud.

“Which lady?”

Realizing he spoke loudly, he replied. “The lady I met here, the previous time I came.”

“Oh... that’s Emma my friend, she sometimes help me out here, each time I have something doing at home.” She explained.

“Am sorry, I had no idea. I thought she’s your boss. But please I really do need your help. Am willing to pay you any amount you want.”

“In as much as am in love with this cute baby, I can’t close up my shop and take care of her for days. Okay, can I take care of her at my house?”

“No! You can’t take my daughter out from my house.” He replied immediately.

“Easy, you see why I said I can’t help you. I can’t lock up my shop and take care of your daughter as a full time job.”

“What if I pay you five hundred thousand?” Kennedy offered her an amount, he knew she couldn’t resist.

Kate’s eyes lit up, she sprang forward in her chair, putting her hand on his thigh.

Five hundred thousand!

If she made lots of sales in her shop, she won’t get the money at least after two weeks, sometimes it’s even more than a month.

This man here is willing to give her sure an amount just for a few days job as a nanny to this adorable girl. This is not going to be a job for her but dream come through. She had always wanted a baby girl, most times she wished her baby Zika was a girl. Not that she regrets having him, she loves her son dearly. This offer was too juicy and enticing to refuse.

“Realizing where she had put her hand she snatched it back and gripped her hands together. She looked up into his dazed eyes. "Sorry." she composed herself to avoid showing her excitement, "how many days are you going to stay and when are you leaving.”

Thinks for a while, “five to six days at most, I should be gone in the next two days.”

Wow! She would be five hundred thousand richer in less than a week. This would definitely go a long way in her savings. Not wanting to cheap before him, “well I would take your offer, not because of the money but to help you out.”

Kennedy smiled, he knew the offer was too juicy to refuse. “That means I should be expecting you tomorrow evening?”

“Tomorrow evening? Can’t I come in two days time?” She didn’t want to be under the same roof with him, all night. That would be about naughty thoughts in her head.

“No I don’t want to take chances, I would leave very early in the morning next tomorrow. I would want you to settle down before I leave.” He explained.

The excuse made sense to her but she can’t leave her son in the hospital like that. “I can’t come tomorrow evening, I can only come in the morning next tomorrow. It’s either that or nothing.”

Kennedy heaved a sigh, this woman would be a hard nut to crack. Out of options, “alright will leave in evening then. Here is my address.” He handed her a paper, got up to leave but Bella refused to let go of Kate, she finally did with a loud cry.

Kennedy did not feel comfortable with this woman who was not only making her way to him but to his daughter also. The thought of it scared him.

********

“Well, I hope you put in some sexy underwear." Emma joked as Kate packed her overnight bag. Kate has told her of her encounter with Kennedy and her decision to work for him. Emma was over joyous, in her own word, she called the opportunity killing two birds with one stone. Kate would finally be close to her crush and still make extra money to add to her savings.

"Behave, and hand me those clothes.

Emma brought the clothes over and gave it to her. She reached into Kate’s bag and pulled out a red thong and matching lacy bra. "Yeah, very sexy, Mr. handsome should appreciate this." Kate tried to grab them back as Emma swung them around out of her reach.

"Emma, that is my normal underwear, nothing special and I can assure you, Mr. handsome, I mean Ken, will not be seeing them. As he would be leaving as soon as I arrive.”Unfortunately, thought Kate.”

“You never can tell, he might be tempted to do one for the road and am sure you can't resist.” She continued teasing Kate.

Kate blushed at the idea of having sex with Kennedy. “You need to clear, your mind, it’s too corrupt.”

“I know u have also thought of that also.”

Kate face suddenly became serious, “please take care of Zika for me. I would ensure from time to time.”

Zika has been discharged and his state of health is now back to normal. Kate told him he was traveling so he doesn’t feel bad.

“No I won’t, I would take care of Zika for myself. He is my son also, u don’t have to worry about him. Just go and have sex with Mr. handsome.”

“There are two rules for this job tomorrow that I have memorized to keep me out of trouble."

"Which are?"

Kate put up one finger. "Must not allow anything or person distract me." Putting up a second finger. "Must not have sex with Kennedy.”

Kate and Emma collapsed on the bed laughing.”

**********

Kennedy packed his overnight bag for his trip, all his suits were dark and his shirts white, so he did not need to make many choices. He grabbed a beer and sat on the couch planning to go through the papers for tomorrow’s meeting. He slightly regretted asking Kate to work for him, in fact twice today he had been on the verge of phoning her to tell her she didn't need to go. But no, he couldn't do that to her, besides, he did need here, when he is gone. Bella needs her, she would do a nice job taking care of her.

He thought back to when he told her he would pay her five hundred thousand and how shocked she became. Smiling, he almost felt the touch of her hand on his thigh, thank god he had worn his jacket at the time.

His phone ringing brought him back to reality, looking at the display no number or name showed. "Kennedy Washington” he snapped. Hearing the unmistakable static noise made by a satellite phone he smiled, waiting for the connection to be made.

"Hey Bro, how you are doing." Came the welcome sound of his childhood friend’s voice.

"Nick, where the hell are you, not heard from you for ages. Is everything OK?"

"You know I can't tell you where I am, but everything is ok, nothing to worry about."

"Now I'm worried, you're not hurt are you?"

"No, no physical injuries or anything. Just wanted to hear the voice of my very own person, I'm hoping to get back soon, it will be great to catch up."

"Fantastic, there is space here for you any time you want, you still got the keys right?"

"Yeah, don't worry. Anyway, how's the world of big business and how is the little one. I need to hear some normal news for a change."

"Normal! That's a joke, I'm busy, working all hours. Both at home and in the office. Off for a business trip tomorrow, maybe by evening. Bella is good, we are waiting for the new nanny to resume work tomorrow.”

“New nanny? What happened to the old one?”

“She left with my money, I have been taking care of Bella myself for weeks now.”

Nick laughed hard on the phone, “you take care of a baby? I wonder how you did it.”

“It was terrible, I swear you won’t want to know how. Thank God a new nanny is taking over, her name is Kate. Bella loves her a lot.

“Kate er, you got the hots for her?" Nick laughed.

"NO, NO, nothing like that, Bella loves her, that's all."

"Shame, is she ugly?"

"No, um, she's beautiful, what's with all the questions?"

"Well, in the last ten years you have never once told me a name of one of any of your employees, so I guessed she must be special." Nick teased.

"You know better than anyone, I never mix business and pleasure." Kennedy thought about how mere thought of Kate turned him on, but decided Nick didn't need to know about that. "The last thing I need is some story appearing in the papers.

“It's a shame I can't see your face, because I would know if you’re lying to me. I will save the rest of the interrogation until I come visit. Speaking of family, how is mother and father?”

Daniel sighed. "They are both fine. Mom travelled on a business trip. Their latest quest is for me to get married again. You will love this one... Dad tried to hook me up with some of his friend’s daughters even my friends. He has been going on and on about how Bella needs a mother. Can you believe him?"

Gales of laughter assaulted Kennedy’s ears. Eventually Nick said, "sounds like you should bring back how anything?"

He laughed, then replied, "Believe me, with some of the names Mom is putting forward you’re not far wrong."

"I'm sorry you are on your own having to put up with all that, I owe you big time."

"I'm keeping score Nick, there will be a payback some time, count on it."

“Hey, I'm going to lose this signal any time, so better go, it's been so good talking to you Bro. I, I miss you a lot."

"You too Nick, keep safe and hopefully see you real soon."

The signal went dead and Kennedy stared at the phone, he couldn't remember Nick ever saying he missed him before. Something had happened, he was sure, but guessed he needed to wait until his visit to find out the details.

Nick is two years younger than Kennedy. He was a boy left to survival in the streets alone.

The Washington took him in, he has always wanted to be independent and left home as soon as he possibly could, ten years ago, while Kennedy studied at college. He signed up and went straight into SEAL training, much to his father’s annoyance. After all there are not too many billionaire SEALS about. Since then he made little contact with his family, but always kept in touch with Kennedy, and they met up whenever possible.  He never spoke about his job, but Kennedy knew from the pride in his eyes, he enjoyed his work. He just wished it wasn't so dangerous.

His thoughts returned to his own immediate problem, how to get through with the thought of Kate in his house. He could not work out what it was that made her cry, the last Time he saw her. Whatever it was he wanted to take it away, he didn’t understand what is it about her making him feel so protective?

He finished off his beer, deciding that Kate is just Bella’s nanny and nothing else.

*********

The next morning, Kate made sure to finish up her chores before leaving. Emma would be going be going to work from her place. She kissed Zika goodbye then went out to meet Emma with her packed bags.

“Bye Emma, see you tomorrow evening," said Kate, as she reached out for the door.

"Have fun, don't do anything I wouldn't do."

"That leaves my options pretty much open." Kate laughed.”

It was not difficult locating Kennedy’s place in the estate. She was allowed inside the compound by his security man. Seems he was already informed of her coming. Inside the compound looked like another estate, the compound was too big to be occupied by one person. There were fleets of cars packed by the garage side. Flowers were used to decorate the entire compound.

“Welcome to my house.” Kennedy interrupted her thoughts. He wore jeans and a jumper which clung to his muscular toned upper body. He looked sexy in a suit, but this was something else.

“Come in, let me show you to your room.”

“Wow!” She exclaimed inside the house.

She had never seen anything quite so opulent, it was huge, nothing like her idea of a house. The living room, decorated in an art Deco style, included a grand piano, exploring further through the house she found a dining room and kitchen. Kennedy’s voice bought her back to reality.

"Kate, your room is down the corridor over there, close to Bella’s room.

"OK, will be right back," she said, moving down the corridor. Wow, her room was bigger than her home, with its own dressing area and as for the bathroom, all marble with a tub big enough for about four people. Gazing out the window, she could see the neatly dressed garden. She changed into something simpler for the house chores.

“Your room is okay for you?” He inquired as soon as she came back.

“Not bad maybe a little better than my room in my house.” She said keeping a straight face.

Amusement flickered his face, “at least I could impress you a little.”

“Where is Bella?” She asked wanting to start work immediately.

“Oh she is sleeping, had not been long I feed her. Just make yourself comfortable. You can find your way round the house.” He said going upstairs.

*********

Kate was doing nothing sitting around the house, she decided to familiarize herself with most of the rooms in the house. She started going through the doors one after the other. The first door she opened was his gym room, she guessed. It had lots of equipment for exercise, in fact the room is standard more than most gym house in the town. She looked the door, moved to the next door. She stopped dead, gazing around her. The whole area looked so stylish, books were neatly arranged by the shelf. Comfy sofa was set beside it. The wall painted a soft green color, dotted with inspirational quotes. Glass cubicle lined one wall.

An audible click sounded as a door opened off to her right. Startled, she turned and stared, her mouth open. Kennedy was standing there wearing a blue towel tied low on his waist and nothing else.

She stared, she knew she was staring, but he looked amazing. What a body. His muscles so defined and as for his hairy chest with the strip of hair disappearing down into his towel...

"Kate, what are you doing here? Are you looking for something or lost." He walked towards her, towel drying his hair with a small hand towel.

"Why are you dressed like that?" she said, swallowing hard.

Looking around he said, "I thought this was my study room, I can wear what I want in my office."

"But... you can't wear a towel." She stammered, her face flushing with color.

He raised his eyebrows and gave her a wicked grin. "You don't like the towel, well, I can soon get rid of it." His hand moved to the knot of the towel.

"Oh my god... No, don't." She covered her eyes with one hand and pushed her other hand out in a stop motion. A ripple of excitement run through her as her fingers encountered a solid wall of muscle covered in soft chest hair.

She should remove her hand, but it seemed to be attached with some kind of magnetic hold. Her fingers itched to move and explore further. What the hell did she do now?

In typical Kate manner she turned to excuses. "Well, I thought you went upstairs." Regretfully, she removed her hand and stepped backwards, giggling.

"Am allowed to go anywhere in my house, dressed anyhow I like. Would you like to join me? I have another towel in the bathroom, perhaps you would like to try it for size?" Kennedy held up the small hand towel he used to dry his hair. "On second thoughts I think you would look better in this one!" There was something so seductive in his coal black eyes.

“Ha, Ha, very funny. I forgot you’re a comedian." The desk cut into the back of her thighs bringing a halt to her retreat. "You are obviously getting changed to leave.” She bit her lower lip.

“He stepped closer to her stopping in front of her, she glanced down looking straight into his beautiful muscled chest. The same masculine scent with citrus undertones assaulted her nostrils.

"Actually, I am not going anywhere yet, I just got back from a run. Still got some important things to do here," he said, in a low seductive voice.

Her stomach tingled. When she spoke, she tried to keep her voice light. "Oh, at least I was safe in the house while you were out pounding the streets looking for people to distract."

He cupped her chin with one hand lifting her head so her gaze met his. "Do you really “feel safe in here Kate?"

"Well... Yes, I do when you are not around."  Oh god, this was such a turn on, she could listen to his voice forever.

"But you don't feel safe when I am around, why, can't control your impulses?" Kennedy picked up a tendril of hair that escaped from her ponytail and tucked it behind her ear, his fingers traced a line down the side of her neck.

She found herself extremely conscious of his sexual magnetism. “Why do you guys always think women are lusting after you?"

"You mean you don't want me to do this?" Kennedy asked as he lowered his head and planted a string of kisses down her neck following the line of his fingers moments earlier. His light stubble grazing her skin and sending shock waves through her body.

"No, No, you shouldn't be doing this. You are taking it for granted because you are the boss, you can do this." Using all her willpower she put her hand back on his chest lightly pushing him, when all she wanted to do was wrap her arms around his back and pull him against her body.

Standing back, his eyes widened in accusation. "Kate I would never take advantage of anybody, believe me, your body is screaming out for this attention."

"Really, so you can read my body now and know what I need?" She hoped he couldn't read her mind...

Kennedy studied her face unhurriedly. His eyes softened and he let out a small audible sigh. His hands cupped her breasts, his thumbs rubbing over her budded nipples. "Your nipples are hard, a sure sign of arousal." His eyes never left hers.

Her pulse raced alarmingly at his touch. "Well it's cold in here." She weakly protested.

Trying to contain his smile he moved his hands to the hem of her dress and ran his hands up her thighs. "Feels pretty hot here."

Kate exhaled sharply. "Well, what do you expect, you are standing here practically naked, what is a girl supposed to do?"

His mouth curved with warmth. "Just relax and enjoy it."