Temporary Nanny (Harlequin Super Romance #1447)

Phoenix, Arizona Six months laterROYCE FUMBLED with his keys. Things came harder these days, even those he was accustomed to doing with one hand."You're sure you're up to living alone? You're welcome to stay in the guesthouse." His sister, Becca, pushed her honey-blond bangs out of her eyes. Even nearing forty, she reminded him of an exuberant cheerleader."Absolutely not. You've turned your life upside down for me long enough." He silenced her protest with a pointed look.At last, he maneuvered the key into the lock. He turned the knob, opened the door and gestured expansively with his good hand. His only hand. "My palace awaits."She strode inside and crossed her arms. "This apartment looks exactly like what it is. A furnished place to hide out and feel sorry for yourself. You need a home. You need my home." "Like hell I do. It's about as restful as Grand Central Station. There are kids and pets and old people all over the place.""Those old people are my in-laws and they're very sweet. My kids can be a pain in the rear, but they'll grow on you."He couldn't allow her to see how tempting he really found her offer. Wife, mother, businesswoman, caretakerthe last thing she needed was her injured brother taking up space with the rest of her strays.Touching her arm, he said, "I appreciate the invitation. Really. But I need to do this on my own.""So why not get an apartment close to me? Or close to Dad in Florida?""Dad's started a new life with Evelyn. He spent enough time raising us, he deserves this second chance. Anyway, Phoenix was home before I started the expat life. Maybe I can figure some stuff out here. Besides, you know, the old McIntyre stubbornness."Becca blew out a breath that ruffled her bangs. Her eyes sparkled with amusement. "I have a passing acquaintance with it. Fortunately, the family curse seems to have passed me by completely.""Yeah, you keep telling yourself that. I bet Gabe has a whole 'nother story.""Don't you dare compare notes with my husband. He's hard enough to handle as it is. It's going to make me very uneasy with you clear across the country. Won't you at least let me stay a few days to get you settled?" "Absolutely not."Becca sighed. "Then allow Tess to come visit for a while?""No way. The last person I need in the middle of my catastrophe is my ex-wife. I have no intention of wrecking her second marriage."Tilting her head, she asked, "You're not the tiniest bit jealous?""No." The truth was, Royce was a bit relieved that Tess had remarried. Knowing she had finally moved on and found happiness put his guilt on a bearable level."I don't think I could be as easygoing if Gabe ever remarried.""Then don't get divorced in the first place." He glanced at his watch. "Speaking of which, I bet your husband is eager for you to get home to start your anniversary festivities. Don't you have a plane to catch?"Becca touched his cheek with her fingertips. "Royce, I quit being fooled by the tough guy act a long time ago. I know you're hurting, physically and emotionally. I hate leaving you like this, but I guess I understand wanting to do it by yourself. If you need anything, call. Anytime, day or night."Royce cleared his throat. "You bet. Now get back to your own life."Becca kissed him on the cheek. "Goodbye, Royce.&Weaver, Carrie is the author of 'Temporary Nanny (Harlequin Super Romance #1447)', published 2007 under ISBN 9780373714476 and ISBN 0373714475.