Shonee’s POV
My stomach was literally in knots when I was seated in the lobby of Avril Payne’s office with three other people, waiting to be interviewed.
And I wasn’t the only one drowning in nervousness. The guy sitting beside me has been tapping his foot for the past forty-six minutes.
I knew Jordin said not to be anxious, but I couldn’t help it. The person before me went in an hour ago and hasn’t stepped out. Everybody else spent like thirty to twenty minutes in there.
What the heck was she doing?
As if the internal query had summoned her, the office doors flew open and the lady before me stumbled out in tears. Covering her face, she ran towards the elevator, almost tripping over her own stilettos.
Everyone gaped at her retreating form. What the…
“Shonee Coleman!”
“H-here.” I abruptly shot out of my seat.
The gentleman at the door gestured for me to come over and I gulped before moving forward.
Avril Payne’s office was big enough to host a dinner party. The expansive room was adorned with rich mahogany furniture, exuding an air of elegance and sophistication. Floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides of the office provide a panoramic view of the city skyline. A large, polished desk was set at the centre with leather-bound portfolios on one side and a sleek computer on the other. The blond woman at the desk wouldn’t even look up as I approached.
“Are you done gaping in awe?” She asked without lifting her head, and I struggled to find an answer until I remembered Jordin’s instructions. If she senses even a hint of anxiety or uncertainty, she will not hesitate to turn you into a mess. Show her that you are bold and ready for the challenge ahead.
“I am, and I must say, it’s quite impressive,” I replied with newfound confidence. “You have excellent taste, Ms. Payne.”
Avril finally lifted her head, both surprised and somewhat pleased with my response. Her blue eyes did a quick scan over my frame. My outfit must’ve gained her approval because she closed the book before her and said, “Thank you. You can have a seat, Ms.?”
“Coleman. Shonee Coleman.” I held out a hand, thanking my lucky stars that I decided to get a manicure during the weekend. I caught Avril eyeing my outstretched hand before bringing hers to mine.
My lips expanded. “It’s an honour to meet you, Ms. Payne. I’m a huge fan of your fragrances. I’ve been purchasing them ever since they hit the market. Your latest one, Lovely Freesia, is my absolute favourite.”
“Really, what do you love about it?” She quirked up a micro-bladed eyebrow, expectancy covering every inch of her face. “And don’t tell me it’s the scent.”
“Oh, it’s not just the scent. I love the fact that you were inspired to create this perfume with your mother’s favourite flowers. I think you picked the best way to pay homage to her departed soul. May she rest in perfect peace.”
“Amen to that.” Avril watched me in amazement, once again gesturing for me to take a seat.
Thank God, I researched more on that perfume after Jordin left. I settled down in the plush leather chair situated in front of her desk.
“I see you came prepared.” Avril set her elbows on the desk, tenting her fingers. Dressed in a tailored-to-fit blazer, her outfit basically conveyed a strong sense of fashion, authority, and professionalism. Her presence was intimidating at the same time very encouraging.
“Of course. Preparation is key, Ms. Payne. I believe in giving my best, especially when it comes to opportunities as exciting as working with someone of your calibre. I'm eager to discuss how I can contribute to your household and ensure a seamless experience for both you and your new family."
Honestly, I didn’t know where this newfound courage was coming from, but I liked it and Avril seemed to be enjoying it too. Her thin, red lips had actually curved into a small smile. She picked up a binder which I guessed, contained my details because she asked, “Hmm, it says here that you were an art major back in college?”
“Yes, I took a four-year program in Visual Art at NYU and graduated a couple of months ago. My background in art has instilled in me a keen eye for detail and creativity, which I believe can bring a unique perspective to enrich the environment for your family. I'm excited about the prospect of combining my artistic sensibilities with the responsibilities of a nanny to create a nurturing and stimulating atmosphere.”
Avril nodded intently. “Ok. So, tell me Ms. Coleman, why are you interested in this nanny position? Be honest with me.”
I opened my mouth to shoot out a reply, but that last utterance from her made me freeze. How was I going to respond to that question?
The first instinct that came to mind was to lie and tell her it had always been my dream to be the nanny of a stupidly rich family. However, part of me felt that Avril knew the real reason why I was sitting here today. She knew everything, but she was still asking, probably to pull off some sort of test.
Figuring her plan out, I cleared my throat and reluctantly began. “If I’m to be honest…I need the money, Ms. Payne. Ever since I got out of college, I’ve had a hard time settling my student loans and I thought that getting a job in your household could help me clear it up, for good.”
Avril remained motionless for a few seconds, then closed the binder before her. “Congratulations Ms. Coleman. Out of the ten people I’ve interviewed this morning, you’re the first one to be completely honest with me.”
“Wait really?” My eyebrows flew up.
“Yes.” She clasped her hands. “After my secretary compiled the list of applicants, I had my boys run some background checks on everyone.”
So, I was right! It was a test! My grin expanded.
“The lady who came in before you was a drug addict and was planning to keep it a secret from me.” Avril watched me with a stern look in her eyes. “I’m not looking for a saint, but I want someone who can keep Mirasol on a leash without letting their own personal problems get in the way. Vincent’s daughter can be a handful and being up to the task is a major requirement. That’s why the main purpose of this interview is to get someone who can be honest, trustworthy, and responsibly care for Mirasol," Avril continued, her expression unwavering.
“I completely understand. I believe in fostering a supportive environment, and I am more than willing to invest the time and effort needed to ensure Mirasol’s well-being. If there are any concerns or specific expectations you have, I am open to addressing them. Building trust is a two-way street," I assured her.
Avril studied me for a moment before finally nodding. "Great. It's good that we're on the same page. Tell me more about your experience in childcare and how you handle challenging situations?"
As I began to share my relevant experiences and approaches to childcare, most of them related to babysitting duties, the conversation transitioned into a more constructive dialogue, and Avril's demeanour became a mix of scrutiny and consideration. The interview continued each question an opportunity for me to prove that I was the right fit for this job.
After what felt like an hour of a gruelling quiz-fest, Avril hit a button on the intercom on her desk, calling in her secretary. The gentleman who ushered me in entered the office.
“Ben, inform the remaining applicants that the interviews are over so they can leave. I believe I have found a suitable candidate.” Her eyes shifted to me. “Congratulations, Ms. Coleman. You are now the new Beckham-Payne live-in nanny.”
“Thank you so much, Ms. Payne.” I eagerly shook her outstretched hand. “I promise, I won’t let you down.”