Payoff Pitch by AK Landow

BAILEY

Despite a sometimes difficult upbringing, I’ve always had my twin sister by my side. We live together, play professional softball together, and rely on each other for everything. Everything. I always put my own needs aside for her.

While my sister’s passion is softball, mine is children. Working with them, spending time with them, and, hopefully, one day having them.

So I accept my dream job, nannying for a single father, one I can’t help but be attracted to. Despite months of fighting our feelings, things eventually happen between us, and we agree to keep it casual. The problem is that my feelings are anything but casual.

In order to protect my heart, I know it’s time to put an end to it. But then… the unthinkable happens.

TANNER

My daughter and my business as a sports agent. They’re the only things I’ll ever want or need in my life. At least that’s what I’m telling myself.

In walks Bailey Hart. My daughter’s new, too-young-for-me, nanny. She’s the forbidden fruit, and as the oldest story goes, I can’t seem to help myself from taking a bite.

I’m upfront with her about what we are. Casual. Friends with some excellent “benefits.” I’m too damaged to ever get involved in a long-term relationship again.

When I hurt her, I’m surprised to find it hurts me just as much. I know it’s for the best, but it’s got me rethinking everything I always thought I wanted. Is it too late to swing for the fences and find my own happiness?

I’m a sports agent, not a ballplayer. I guess that’s why I never saw the curveball being thrown my way.