Chapter 30

As Stella pondered this, she asked, “Mr. Connolly, what do I need to do for this job?”

Neville gave a satisfied smile. “I’m usually busy with work, so I don’t have much time to be with him, Miss…” He paused, asking, “What’s your name?”

“Stella Cameron.”

“Ms. Cameron, your job is quite simple. If he’s staying with you, you’ll need to drop him off and pick him up from school, prepare meals, and keep him company during his downtime,” Neville explained in a calm tone. He continued, “Of course, if you want to take him to an amusement park, summer camp, or on other trips, that’s fine. You can arrange it as you see fit. I’ll cover all those expenses.”

Abby looked on enviously, her eyes practically glowing. Paid vacations? What a stroke of luck!

Stella’s eyes flickered with curiosity. “He… will be staying at my place?”

Neville raised an eyebrow, studying her. “Why? Were you hoping to move into mine? Not that I’d mind, Ms. Cameron, but you’re young, and I wouldn’t want your husband or boyfriend to get the wrong idea.”

Neville’s comment made her realize something she hadn’t considered. They seemed to be around the same age, and moving in with Neville could invite gossip. Besides, Neville’s wife might not be thrilled about her husband spending so much time with another woman. Stella thought for a moment before asking another question. “Does Marvin’s mother agree with this?”

Neville was silent for a few seconds. “His mother passed away some years ago.”

Stella quickly apologized, “I’m sorry.”

Neville waved it off. “No worries, it was long ago.”

Stella lowered her head, looking at Marvin with newfound sympathy. She nodded and asked, “Aren’t you worried I might mistreat him?”

Neville’s voice was smooth yet carried an undeniable confidence and authority. “Abuse my son, Marvin? Who would dare?”

That was true. Neville didn’t seem like an ordinary person. Anyone who mistreated his child would be asking for trouble. Besides, if he let her take Marvin home, he would undoubtedly have someone watching her.

While Neville’s offer was tempting, it was clear that earning this money wouldn’t be easy. She had nothing to hide, so Neville’s surveillance didn’t bother her.

Stella asked, “When do I start?”

“You can start right now,” Neville checked his watch. “I have to go then, you’ll take care of Marvin.”

“Ms. Cameron, any other questions? If not, I’ll be on my way. I go on a business trip shortly and will be back around the weekend. Until then…”

“Just one more question,” Stella looked down at the quiet Marvin. “He doesn’t seem to be in the best of health. Are there any dietary restrictions or things I should be aware of?”

Neville raised his eyebrows in surprise. “You know medicine?”

“I’ve studied traditional medicine for a few years, so I know a bit about children’s health issues.”

Stella paused, then added, “Since I’m still getting to know Marvin, could you have the nanny who usually takes care of him send me a document detailing his daily preferences?”

Neville’s gaze sharpened, his previously casual demeanor becoming more focused as he looked at Stella as if seeing her in a new light. Stunned by his intense gaze, Stella instinctively asked, “Mr. Connolly, d…