“Hi there. I’m McKenna,” I say, reaching my hand out for her to shake.
“Hello, I’m Dakota. It’s so nice to meet you.”
“You too! Thanks for being flexible with me. I didn’t have much time in my schedule to meet up at a coffee shop. Come right this way. We can chat in the kitchen.”
Dakota steps through the door frame, and I guide her to the kitchen.
“Sorry, we can just sit on the barstools. We just moved in, so not all of the furniture has been unpacked yet,” I clarify.
“Oh, that’s okay. I don’t mind.” She has the slightest Southern twang to her voice.
“Alright, well, I suppose I’ll just jump right into it. I’m looking for a nanny for my daughter, Cadence. She’s sixteen months old. She hasn’t started walking yet, but she crawls everywhere.”
“What a beautiful name that is. I love that stage, where they’re learning something new each day!” Dakota sounds so genuinely kind—I can’t help but smile.
“Iknow, it’s so much fun to watch. But please, tell me a little bit about yourself and why you applied for the position.”
“Right, I have to apologize in advance. I’m a bit rusty when it comes to interviewing.”
“That’s okay. I’ve never conducted an interview before. Think of it as a chance to get to know one another.”
“Well, I graduated from college a couple of years ago with a degree in English. I’ve always loved working with kids of all ages. I babysat my younger cousins from the time I was twelve until I moved away for college. When it comes down to it, I’m looking for something to occupy my time while I figure out what I want to do next with my degree.”
Just then, I notice Carson has come out of the pantry with an armful of snacks. He’s stopped dead in his tracks, staring at Dakota.
“Oh, hello! I’m Dakota. I’m here to interview for the nannying position.”
Carson’s eyes literally smolder when she smiles his way. Setting his snacks on the island, Carse tries to look casual, crossing his arms and leaning against the edge of the counter.
“You must be Mr. Wilder,” she continues, holding out her hand for Carson to shake.
“Carson, McKenna’s twin brother. But you can call me Mr. Wilder if you’d like.” He untucks one of his arms to shake Dakota’s now outstretched hand.
“Oh my goodness, my apologies. It’s nice to meet you, Carson.” Dakota’s breath hitches when her hand meets Carson’s. She quickly pulls it away as if she's been burnt.
Trying to steer away from the awkward tension that Carson brought into the room, I ask Dakota, “What’s your availability for weekends andevenings? I’m on Abbott University’s volleyball team, so I may need the nanny to watch her during games if my parents decide not to bring her.”
“Honestly? I have practically no life. Most of my friends and family live out of state, so I rarely have plans that will conflict with your game or practice schedule. I’m assuming you’re also looking for someone to watch her while you’re in classes?”
“Just two days per week while I’m in class. The rest of the nannying position would come for practice times and games. There may also be the occasional nights where Carson plays that I might want to watch, but the games would be too late for Cadence.”
“That all sounds great.” Then Dakota turns to Carse and asks, “Do you also play a sport for Abbott?”
“I did last season. I just signed my rookie contract with the Minnesota Wolverines.” When she continues to stare at him blankly, he adds, “I am a professional hockey player.”
“Oh my gosh, how silly of me. My apologies, I don’t follow any sports aside from football. I don’t have much of a choice there.”
“Why is that?” Carson questions.
“Well, growing up in Texas, it’s ingrained in our way of life.”
“Ah, so that’s where that slight drawl comes from. I like it.” Carse flashes a smirk at her.
Dakota’s cheeks turn crimson as she continues, “Then there’s the fact that my older brother plays football for the Denver Mustangs.”
“Shit, really? What’s his name?” Carse asks, leaning forward with intrigue.
“Brody Meyer, he plays—”
