Page 9 of The Love Syllabus

“This is exactly what he needs,” Ms. Tina whispers loud enough for all to hear, with a knowing grin. “To dress up, get out of this house, and stop driving us crazy.”

Their laughter, though at my expense, is infectious, and despite myself, I can’t help but let a slight smile slip through.

Sensing my resignation, Ariel steps closer and adjusts my tie with a seriousness that belies her age. “There, much better. Now, you don’t look like a frumpy cook anymore. You look like the 5-star Michelin chef you are!”

I chuckle under my breath and corral my mini-me into my embrace. “Thanks, Ari. I don’t know what I’d do without you and your sister. You two keep me sane, you know that?”

“And stylish, too, Dapper Dad,” Syd adds, winking at me from across the room.

It’s been years since I’ve worn a tuxedo, and the last place I expected to dress up for a black-tie affair is at a floral shop. Apparently, this town makes big deals out of small occasions, any excuse to dress up for a party, which is an ideal setting for my daughters but not for me.

Despite my grandiose home and family name, I’ve never been the flashy type. Of the Grimes brothers, I’m the homebody who prefers to craft new recipes in the kitchen rather than schmooze at networking events. I own our multi-million-dollar family brand, but I hate the business side of things. I’d rather focus on the food.

“Did I hear laughter coming from my son’s room?” My mother sounds from the hallway.

“You heard right, Grandma! Daddy’s freaking out about leaving the house,” Sydney tattles with glee.

“Well, of course he is. He hasn’t stepped foot outside since we moved here. The whole town’s abuzz, wondering who the mysterious old man is behind the gates of Greer’s largest estate.” Mom adds as she strides into my room, her presence as formidable as ever.

“Old man? I’m only thirty-eight,” I protest, instinctively running a hand through my hair where the grey strands are staging a quiet rebellion. “I thought the grey hairs made me look distinguished, not old.”

Mom smirks, her eyes twinkling with mirth. “Distinguished, huh? That’s one way to put it. But seriously, Victor, it’s good you’re getting out tonight. We begin construction on the new restaurant in just one week and film your new cooking show in a few months. You’ll be the hot topic all year, so it’s about time you met the residents and fellow business owners.”

“They don’t need to meet me. That’s Hudson’s role, not mine. Or at least it was,” I grumble, adjusting my tie. “I just wish he’d grow up and accept that I’m CEO now. He needs to hurry up and get back so I can work from home and focus on the restaurants. Look at the girls’ sad faces. They need me.”

“We don’t,” Ariel and Sydney chime in together, their voices harmonizing in a chorus of budding wannabe pre-teen independence.

“Those days are over, Vic. If you’re not going to let your brother lead with you, then it’s time you start managing the entire business from the office. Besides, Hudson deserves his extended vacation after dealing with your stubbornness all these years. And don’t let your smart mouth get you into trouble tonight.”

I open my mouth to argue, but she steamrolls right over me.

“And the girls will be fine, especially when their new nanny arrives. She’s a former teacher, you know, the best this town has to offer.”

“Then why isn’t she teaching? She’s clearly unqualified.” I scoff while adjusting my tie. “They don’t need a nanny or a teacher anyway! And I certainly don’t need a nosy townie coming in and out of our home and prying into our lives.”

“Well, good news then,” Mom says smugly. “She won’t be coming in and out of our lives. She’s going to be living here.”

The room falls into stunned silence.

“Living?” Ariel repeats, her eyebrows shooting up.

Ms. Tina gasps, clutching her imaginary pearls. “Awomanliving with us? It’s been years!”

“Oh my God, this is awesome!” Sydney squeals. “I hope she likes the color pink!”

“I wonder if she knows how to do hair,” Ariel muses. “Or maybe she can take us to a nail salon during lunch breaks!”

“Hey,” I interrupt, feeling mildly offended. “I like pink. I know how to do hair. And I have nail techs come to the house once a month.”

“It’s not the same, Dad. Oh, my goodness, Grandma. Thank you for finding us a teacher. Dad’s rejected every application that’s come through.”

“I know, honey. Grandma’s got everything under control. This woman has tons of experience working with kids! And from our brief conversation, I can tell she’s got plenty of spunk! I thinkeveryonein this house is gonna love her.”

I grunt. “I doubt that. She’ll be gone in a week. Now, no junk food after 8 o’clock. They were bouncing off the walls last time.”

“Huh? What’d you say?” She playfully dismisses me. “I’m too busy thinking about all the candy we’re gonna eat.”

Mom and the girls chuckle while I finish getting dressed and prepare to suffer through an evening of fake pleasantries.

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