Later that morning, Bianca arrived at the towering Schuyler residence. The sleek glass façade reflects the sun's rays and the bustling city around it. Every detail screamed wealth and sophistication.
Standing near the front desk was an older man with a kind face. He had salt-and-pepper hair neatly combed back and wore a tailored gray suit with a pale blue tie. His polished black shoes shone under the bright lights. He smiled warmly as Bianca approached.
"Ms. Martins, I presume? I'm Richard, the Schuyler family driver. It's a pleasure to meet you. I'll be assisting you with your move today."
Bianca felt a bit awestruck by the impeccable manners and elegance of everyone associated with Ken Schuyler.
"Wow, I've never had a personal driver before," she admitted with a laugh.
Richard chuckled as he picked up several of her bags. "Well, you're part of the Schuyler family team now. I hope you enjoy it here. Mr. Schuyler had nothing but glowing words about you this morning. He said he believes you're the perfect addition to the household."
His words warmed Bianca's heart. "Thanks, Richard. That really means a lot to me."
They made their way across the luxurious lobby and into a private elevator. Moments later, they were stepping into the penthouse, where Bianca took a deep breath. The suite was even more breathtaking than she remembered, with its floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city skyline. The decor was modern yet inviting, with plush furniture and tasteful artwork adorning the walls.
After Richard left, Bianca began unpacking her belongings in her new room. She carefully placed her clothes in the spacious closet, pausing as she came across her collection of delicate lingerie. She couldn't help but smile at how out of place it looked in such an upscale setting.
Just as she picked up a silk camisole, there was a knock at the door. Bianca turned to see Ken peeking his head in with that effortlessly charming smile she was starting to associate with him.
"I trust you're settling in okay?" he asked.
"Ken!" she exclaimed, her cheeks flushing. "I didn't expect to see you until later."
Ken's gaze flicked briefly to the silk she still held in her hands before he quickly looked away, clearing his throat.
"I, uh, just wanted to make sure everything's going smoothly."
Bianca smirked, setting the garment down and clasping her hands behind her back. "Oh, I'm settling in just fine…"
Ken looked momentarily flustered before composing himself. "Good, good. That's what I like to hear. Though I hate to do this to you at the last minute, I need to handle an emergency at the office. Can you watch the boys today?"
Bianca raised an eyebrow. "An emergency? I hope it's nothing too serious…"
"Just a PR issue. Nothing I can't handle," he replied, running a hand through his dark hair.
Bianca couldn't resist teasing him. "Oh yeah? It's hard to imagine anything you can't handle."
Ken grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Have you been imagining me often, Ms. Martins?"
Her cheeks burned as her mind betrayed her, flashing back to that dream. She forced herself to stay composed, giving him a confident smile.
"Wouldn't you like to know?" she quipped. "But yes, I can watch the boys. Whatever you need."
"You're a lifesaver," Ken said sincerely. "Now, there are a few house rules: no pillow fights in the master bedroom, no experiments after dinner, and absolutely no Toaster Tarts. You'll thank me for that one."
Bianca laughed. "No Toaster Tarts? That's practically a crime against childhood! They were my favorite when I was eight, and I turned out alright."
Ken shrugged playfully. "Debatable."
Just then, a loud crash came from the kitchen, followed by the sound of giggling. Bianca and Ken exchanged a look before hurrying to investigate.
---
The kitchen was a disaster zone. Milk, soda, and cereal covered every surface, dripping onto the floor. The twins, Jason and Mason, stood in the middle of the chaos, holding bowls and grinning sheepishly.
"We were testing if milk would explode like soda with Pop Rocks," Mason explained excitedly.
"But... Pop Rocks don't react with milk," Bianca said, trying not to laugh.
"That's why we had to check!" Jason defended. "We had one bowl of milk and one of soda. And one with cereal!"
Ken sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Boys, clean this up. Now."
"But Dad—" Mason began.
"No arguments. And after you're done, Ms. Martins has something fun planned for you."
Bianca raised an eyebrow. "I do?"
Ken smiled knowingly. "You do now."
The boys groaned but started cleaning as Ken turned to Bianca. "Thanks for handling them today. Call me if you need anything."
As he left, Bianca clapped her hands to get the twins' attention. "Alright, guys. If you clean up quickly, we can head to the coolest place in the city."
Their eyes lit up. "Really?!" Jason exclaimed.
"Yep. So let's move it, soldiers!"
"I'll get the floor!" Jason exclaimed.
Mason groaned. "Ugh, the counters are sticky! Can't we just—"
Bianca crouched to meet their eyes, her voice gentle but firm. "Here's the thing: if you both don't clean up as fast as you can, we won't make it to the coolest place in the city. It'll only happen if you work together."
Jason perked up immediately. "Fine!"
Mason crossed his arms. "What's the coolest place?"
Bianca smirked. "Not telling unless you earn it."
With a grumble, Mason grabbed a sponge. "Fine."
The three of them got to work, with Bianca guiding the boys as they scrubbed, wiped, and mopped. Jason sang a silly cleanup song, making Bianca laugh, while Mason complained about the sticky soda but worked diligently nonetheless. She even joined in, wiping down cabinets and encouraging the boys with playful banter.
Once the kitchen was spotless, Bianca clapped her hands. "Alright, boys. Time to freshen up. We're heading out soon!"
Jason darted off to the bathroom, but Mason lingered. "Do we have to wear matching clothes? It's embarrassing."
Bianca grinned. "Matching outfits are adorable, and today's outfit is extra cool."
Reluctantly, Mason followed her instructions. A few minutes later, the twins emerged in matching navy-blue polos and khaki shorts, their outfits completed with tiny sneakers. Jason's polo had a small rocket ship embroidered on the chest, while Mason's sported a constellation design.
"You guys look amazing!" Bianca said. "You're like little explorers ready for an adventure."
Jason beamed. "Thanks! What about you, Ms. Martins?"
Bianca glanced at her reflection. She'd changed into a casual yet chic outfit: a white blouse tucked into high-waisted jeans and a pair of comfy sneakers. Her hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail.
"All set. Let's go."
Richard was waiting downstairs when they arrived, his car polished to a mirror shine. He opened the door for them, smiling as the boys scrambled in.
"Planetarium, correct?" he confirmed with a glance at Bianca.
"That's right," she replied. "Thanks for driving us, Richard."
"It's my pleasure," he said, pulling away from the curb.
The ride was smooth and quick, with the boys peppering Bianca with questions about the planetarium. As they pulled up to the towering glass dome, Jason and Mason practically vibrated with excitement.
"Thanks, Richard!" Bianca said as she helped the boys out of the car. "We'll call when we're ready to head back."
"Take your time, Ms. Martins," Richard replied with a nod.
As the car drove away, Mason immediately sprinted toward a large model of the solar system near the entrance.
"Mason, don't touch that!" Bianca called, hurrying after him. She glanced at Jason, who was already tugging her sleeve.
"Come on, Ms. Martins! There's so much to see!"
Bianca took a deep breath, steeling herself for what she knew would be a long but exciting day.