Chapter 2 The Interview

The next morning, Rose stood in front of the massive gate of the Ashford's estate, holding the strap of her bag so tightly that her knuckles are already turning white.

The estate was nothing like she had ever seen before, so elegant, intimidating, and screaming of wealth beyond imagination. The golden gate alone looked like they cost more than her entire apartment complex. Beyond them, a long driveway extended towards the elevated mansion with white stone walls and massive glass windows that shimmer under the morning sun.

She swallowed hard. Was she really about to walk into this world?

The night before, Evelyn had spent hours cheering her up, insisting she was perfect for the job. But now, standing here all the confidence she had gathered was slipping away.

A voice Call through the intercom, startling her.

"State your name and purpose."

Rose cleared her throat. "Um, Rose Brunette. I have an interview for the nanny position."

There was a brief silence, then a buzzing sound as the gates swung open.

"Proceed."

She took a deep breath and stepped forward.

Inside the Ashford Estate

The mansion was even more massive up close. The double doors opened to a grand foyer with marble floors, a massive clear chandelier, and a grand staircase that split into two directions. The air smelled of polished wood and mixed spices.

Her heart beating faster as she stepped inside.

A tall woman in a sleek white dress approached her, her pointed heels clicking against the marble. She had the kind of posture that commanded authority, and Rose immediately straightened up.

"You must be Miss Brunette. Follow me."

Rose nodded and hurried after her, trying not to trip over the rug. The woman led her through a series of hallways, each more extravagant than the others . Everything here looked clean, untouched like a place where laughter and warmth had no place.

They stopped in front of a large mahogany door.

"Mr. Ashford will see you now."

Rose took a deep breath, checked herself, and stepped inside.

Meeting Christian Ashford

The office was just as imposing as the rest of the house. Dark wood paneling, floor to ceiling bookshelves, and a massive desk in the center. Behind it sat Christian Ashford.

And he was nothing like she expected.

Tall with sharp figure, with piercing blue eyes, he radiate an air of power and cold indifference. The tailored black suit he wore pointed out his stiff demeanor. He didn't acknowledge her right away, his gaze focused on a file in front of him.

The air in the room felt heavy.

"Sit."

His voice was deep, authoritative, leaving no room for hesitation. Rose quickly obeyed, holding her hands in her lap to keep them from shaking.

Without looking up, he flipped through a few pages. "You have no experience as a nanny."

"I don't," she admitted, forcing herself to keep her voice steady. "But I'm good with kids, and i learn fast."

He finally looked up, his gaze sharp and assessing. "Why do you want this job?"

She hesitated. Should she be honest?

"I need stability," she finally said. "And I think I can genuinely care for your daughter."

Something flickered in his eyes, gone before she could identify it. He leaned back in his chair.

"Ella is my priority. If you disappoint me, you're gone."

"Understood."

A brief silence stretched between them.

Then, to her surprise, he pressed a button on his desk. "Bring Ella in."

The door opened, and a beautiful little girl with soft brown curls and big hazel eyes peeped inside. She hesitated before stepping in, holding a stuffed bunny close to her chest.

Christian's expression softened just a little.

"Ella, this is Rose. She might be your new nanny."

Ella looked at Rose cautiously, her grip on the bunny tightening.

Rose knelt to her level and smiled. "Hi, Ella, I like your bunny."

Ella held the stuffed toy. "His name is Mr. Teddy."

Rose gasped, as if hearing the most wonderful name in the world. "That's the best name I've ever heard."

Ella's lips twitched before she giggled softly.

Christian watched, unreadable.

Encouraged, Rose continued. "I bet Mr. Teddy loves stories. Do you like stories, too?"

Ella hesitated, then nodded. "Can you read me one?"

Rose glanced at Christian, seeking permission. He gave a single nod.

Smiling, she held out her hand. "Let's find a good one."

To her surprise, Ella reached for her hand without any hesitation. It was a small, delicate gesture but it sealed Rose's fate.

After storytime, Christian called Rose back into his office.

"You start tomorrow."

Rose blinked. "I got the job?"

Christian stood, adjusting his sleeve. "Ella likes you and that's all that matters."

For the first time since she had entered this house, warmth spread through her chest.

As she left the estate, her heart raced.

She had just become the nanny of Christian Ashford's daughter.

And something told her this job would change her life forever.