Nanny and the Professor (27 page)

With the hot debate raging in her head, she pushed herself to a stand and absently brushed sand from the rear of her shorts.

If the stranger's intent was to carry away the girl, Laura's intervention could put her and Brian in danger.

What was she thinking?
If that man meant to harm the child, she had to stop him. Still, her feet remained firmly planted on the sand as she battled her indecision.

The panicky cry that erupted from her son's throat was the motivating factor that finally pushed her into action.

Kneeling down, Laura settled Brian on the sand. "You sit right here," she said firmly. "I'll go see what's going on." She took off running, yelling over her shoulder, "Don't move, Brian. I'll be right back."

Excuse me
, she mentally practiced,
can I point out the fact that your child is in hysterics?

No, No.
Much too aggressive.

Hello. I see your daughter's upset. I run a daycare center. I work with children every day. Could I help you calm her down?

Better.
Much better.

The man was halfway to the street, so Laura sprinted across the sandy distance.

"Excuse me," she called.

The man ignored her even though she knew he had to have heard her.

"
Hey!
" she shouted.
"
Hey, you!
"

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