Page 31 of Once Upon a Midnight Dream

Was she speaking to him or herself?

“I cannot allow the children to address you by a given name,” she murmured.

Even if it is fake?

“Perhaps, Field since that is where we found you.”

I think I would prefer Mr. Meadow.

It has a nice alliteration ring to it.

Wisdom cautioned Zander to keep silent and let her work through this her way, which appeared to be thinking aloud.

“You would have to take a timed examination first, Zander.”

Lilly eyed him up and down, as if seeing him for the first time. “You must score in the ninetieth percentile or above in all three academic areas to qualify. It is a stringent requirement for employment, and I cannot make an exception for anyone.”

“Fine.” Summoning what he hoped was a charming smile, Zander crossed his arm over his chest in false gallantry. “I am at your disposal. Name the time and place.”

How could he be so confident about this? He did not harbor a single doubt that he would perform well.

“Now.” A challenging glint entered Lilly’s brown eyes. “No time like the present. The last applicant canceled his interview. He has accepted a position elsewhere, so I have two free hours to oversee your examination.”

Did she think Zander was not up to the task?

That he had boasted?

Had he?

Or that he needed time to study and refresh his knowledge?

Did he?

They would soon see.

“Very well.” He lifted a shoulder, then extended his arm toward her study. “After you.”

She marched ahead of him, spine ramrod straight, shoulders squared, and chin slightly elevated. But her rounded hips swayed nicely—enticingly—beneath the godawful fabric with each measured step.

Again, Zander’s conscience railed him.

Have you lost what is left of your mind?

No.

Somehow, though it made no bloody sense, this felt right.

Almost… Almost as if destiny had placed him here at this exact time.

Except, he did not believe in fate or destiny or providence or any of that fanciful claptrap.

They reached her office, and once inside, Lilly closed the door. She faced him with the directness he appreciated.

“I have doubts as to the wisdom of this, Zander, and I usually listen to my intuition.”

So did he, truth to tell.

“Let me complete the examination first, Lilly, and then we can discuss your concerns.” He lifted a shoulder. “If I do not pass, they are moot anyway.”