Morris's POV
The drive to the airport was quiet, an undercurrent of sadness flowing between us as Darren and I accompanied Paula to her departure gate. A lump formed in my throat watching her check in. This woman had been more than a nanny—she was the mother figure who had shaped my life from childhood. To ease the sting of separation, I'd already arranged for her to spend one week each month with us going forward.
"Morris, I had a lovely lunch with Monica and Natalie today," Paula mentioned, her hand resting gently on my arm as we walked toward security. "Little Austin asked me to give you a message."
My face brightened immediately. "Did he now? What did my little buddy have to say?" The thought of that child remembering me warmed something deep inside.
"He wants you to come play with him," she replied, her eyes twinkling. Then her expression softened. "Listen to me, Monica is still hurting badly, but don't you dare give up on her."
