Amy hesitated for a moment before asking, "Mr. Kingsley, what exactly would my responsibilities entail?"

Sebastian's lips curved into a pleased smile. "My schedule is quite demanding, leaving little time to spend with him. Miss..." He paused deliberately. "I don't believe I caught your name?"

"Amy Sinclair," she supplied.

"Ms. Sinclair, your duties are straightforward. When Oliver is in your care, you'll handle school drop-offs and pickups, meal preparations, and general supervision during his free time." His voice remained composed yet authoritative. "Naturally," he continued, "should you wish to take him to theme parks, summer programs, or weekend getaways, feel free to arrange such outings. All expenses will be covered, of course."

Samantha's eyes widened with barely concealed envy. Paid excursions? This opportunity was practically a golden ticket!

Amy's gaze flickered with curiosity. "He'll be... staying at my apartment?"

Sebastian arched an eyebrow, studying her with sudden intensity. "Why? Were you expecting to move into my penthouse?" His lips twitched with amusement. "While I wouldn't object personally, Ms. Sinclair, we're of similar age. Your significant other might find such an arrangement... questionable."

The implication made heat rise to Amy's cheeks. She hadn't considered how this might appear. Living under the same roof as the devastatingly handsome Sebastian Kingsley would undoubtedly spark rumors. Not to mention the potential complications if he had a partner.

After a thoughtful pause, Amy ventured another question. "Does Oliver's mother approve of this arrangement?"

The air between them grew heavy with silence. "His mother passed away several years ago," Sebastian finally replied, his voice carefully neutral.

Amy's hand flew to her mouth. "I'm so sorry."

Sebastian dismissed her apology with a wave. "Ancient history."

Her heart ached as she looked down at the quiet boy, seeing him in a new light.

Nodding, she pressed further. "Aren't you concerned I might... mishandle him?"

Sebastian's voice turned glacial, laced with unshakable authority. "Harm my son? I'd like to see anyone foolish enough to try."

The veiled threat sent a shiver down her spine. Sebastian Kingsley clearly wasn't someone to cross. No doubt he'd have her thoroughly vetted before entrusting Oliver to her care.

While the compensation was generous, Amy understood this wouldn't be easy money. Still, she had nothing to hide.

"When would you need me to start?" she asked.

Sebastian glanced at his platinum watch. "Immediately. I'm departing on business shortly and won't return until the weekend. You'll assume responsibility for Oliver until then."

He straightened his cufflinks. "Any other questions, Ms. Sinclair? Otherwise, I must take my leave."

"Just one more." Amy studied Oliver's pale complexion. "He seems rather frail. Are there any dietary restrictions or health considerations I should know about?"

Sebastian's eyebrows shot up. "You have medical training?"

"I studied traditional remedies for several years," she explained. "I'm familiar with common childhood ailments."

After a beat, she added, "Since I'm still getting acquainted with Oliver, perhaps his usual nanny could provide me with documentation about his routines and preferences?"

Sebastian's entire demeanor shifted. His previously casual posture straightened as his piercing gaze locked onto her with newfound interest.

Unnerved by his sudden intensity, Amy instinctively recoiled. "Mr. Kingsley, did I say something inappropriate?"