More Than Just a Nanny

Not Just a Nanny

Alice sat at a desk in the university library, surrounded by a fortress of textbooks and notebooks. Her fingers flicked rapidly through pages of scribbled notes, and her eyes darted over lines of textshe was desperately trying to commit as much as she could to memory before the looming test. Her lecturers reputation for strictness was well known: fail the test once, and a resit was practically guaranteed. Alice couldnt afford thather term was already stressful.

Just then, her coursemate Marianne appeared by the desk, perching on its edge and leaning closer to Alice with a soft smile.

You still need a job, dont you?

Alice paused for the briefest moment, nodded tightly without looking up, and returned to her studying. Time was pressing, and there was so much left to learn.

Mm she finally managed, trying not to lose her train of thought. Butit all depends on time. You know our lectures go until two, I cant miss them.

Marianne gave her a knowing smile; she was well aware of Alices dedication. After a pause, she spoke with clear excitement:

Ive got the perfect thing. My neighbourhes a single dad, bit of a sad story I think, his wife passed away, though Im not sure of the details, she wrinkled her nose, swiftly bypassing the gossip. Anyway, hes completely snowed under at work and needs a nanny for the girlsjust in the afternoons. Four til eight, usually.

Finally, Alice tore herself away from her notes and looked at her friend, fully attentive now.

You love kids, youre studying education, and youve got experiencea household full of younger brothers cant hurt!

Alice mulled it over. The thought of working with children always warmed her; shed always enjoyed helping her mother with her younger brothers. No one ever forced herit wasnt easy, but she found it rewarding.

How old are the children? Alice asked, genuine care in her tone.

She twirled her pencil thoughtfully, weighing up Mariannes words. Nannying was tempting but daunting. Could she really find the right approach with children, especially ones who had suffered real loss?

Twin girls, about six, Marianne replied readily. Their older brothers thirteen, but hes off at football most evenings, so he cant help their dad much.

Anddo you think hell actually want me? Alice asked nervously, her pencil tapping on the desk. Im only a fourth-year student, not even qualified yet

Sure, shed helped at home, done her teaching placements, adored kids but theres a big difference between looking after your little brothers and being responsible for someone elses children.

Marianne gave a dismissive wave.

Trust metheyll take you! Benmy neighbourwas just asking if I knew anyone. Should I give him your number?

There was such conviction in her voice that for a moment Alice hesitated. She glanced at her notes, then at the clockjust half an hour until the next lecture. But suddenly, she realised: this might be exactly what she needed. A job close to uni, flexible hours, and surely, the girls would be sweet.

Her heart skipped from a blend of nerves and anticipation. She drew a deep breath, then exhaled, saying firmly,

Alright, go ahead.

********************

Alice was terribly nervous. Today was, in a sense, her first real day at work. Shed looked after her brothers plenty of times, but this was different: this was a real job, responsibility to someone else, and to children she didnt properly know. She checked her bag several timesphone, keys, a notebook of ideas, snacks for the girls Everything was accounted for.

The meeting with Ben and his children the previous day had gone smoothly, to her relief. Ben was calm, approachable, and explained everything clearly: her duties, the daily routine. The girlsEmily and Sophiewere shy at first, half-hiding behind their father, but within ten minutes they were chatting away, showing Alice their drawings. They seemed to like her, and Alice couldnt help but warm to their quirky, innocent ways.

But what had surprised her mostalthough Marianne hadnt exactly highlighted thiswas Ben himself. He was genuinely handsome, tall with kind eyes and an easy smile, completely unassuming. Alice couldnt help but curse Mariannes small omissionnow, shed have to make an extra effort not to blush every time he looked at her.

Dont lose your head, she reminded herself. Youre here to work, nothing more.

She reached the nurserya small, cosy brick building with a colourful play area. Ben had let the staff know Alice would be collecting the girls, handing her a letter just in case. Alice took another deep breath, tidied her hair, and opened the small gate.

The playground was alive with noise and laughter. Alice quickly spotted Emily and Sophie; they were by the swings, deep in conversation. When they noticed her, they hesitated, then gave shy smiles.

Alice knelt to their level, smiling kindly:

Well then, girls, shall we head home? Maybe Ill make you something nice for tea.

Emily exchanged a glance with her sister, then stepped forward, her gaze a little guarded.

What sort of something? she demanded with a frown.

Hmmm Alice pretended to ponder. I could make pancakes and jam or maybe chocolate chip cookies?

Sophie instantly brightened.

Cookies! I love them with chocolate chips!

Cookies it is, then. Alice held out her hands, and after a moments pause, both girls took them, their tiny palms enveloped in hers. And right in that moment, her nerves slipped away, replaced by a comforting sense of warmth. Maybe she could do this after all.

Despite their young age, the girls glances spoke volumessomething mature, deliberatebefore, in perfect unison, they nodded. In so many ways they mirrored each other: the way they folded their hands, tilted their heads, copied one anothers steps, and a seriousness in their eyes rare for six-year-olds.

Alice watched them affectionately, but her mind drifted to her conversation with Stephentheir older brotherthe day before. Hed quietly pulled her aside, almost whispering things she knew Ben wouldnt say out loud.

They used to be so outgoing, Stephen told her, tugging awkwardly at the hem of his shirt. Always giving people hugs, making friends. Ever since Mum Well, since she died, they they dont really get it. They keep asking if they did something wrong.

Hed fallen silent, staring into space, before finding his voice again:

They used to cry constantly, asking if they were so bad that Mum left. Dad and I, we told them it wasnt their fault, she loved them but they just closed off. They barely smiled. They wouldnt let anyone else in. Gran used to help, but shes been too ill, so Dad had to get help.

His voice, although tired, was determinedhe felt a deep responsibility for his sisters and his dad.

Alice had nodded silently, her heart aching. Looking at Emily and Sophie now, she felt the weight of the trust given to her.

But at least they warmed up to me quite quickly, shed said later with a small smile. We even played some gamesI did some magic scarf tricks. They were in stitches.

Stephen had studied her, deciding whether he believed her. Then, unusually grave for a thirteen-year-old, he said,

Thats why Dad chose you. He saw right away that you made them laugh. Just please dont let us down, yeah?

There was so much hope and anxiety behind his words that Alice felt tears sting at the back of her eyes. She nodded, firm and sincere:

I wont. Ill do my best to help them feel happy again.

Stephen relaxed, even smiled a little, thenback to being a kidadded,

Ill help when I can too. Tell them stories, when football doesnt get in the way.

Of course, Alice assured him warmly. Theyd love that.

***************

Two months later, Alice had become part of the Morrison family routine. The girls wariness gave way to trust and attachment. They now greeted her with hugs, spilled their daily tales, and always begged her not to leave at the end of her shift.

That evening, as usual, Alice began to gather her thingstidying toys strewn from their earlier games, humming the new song the girls had taught her. Emily and Sophie sat on the sofa, watching her with mournful eyes.

Stay with us! Emily suddenly blurted out, jumping up to throw her arms around Alices waist with all her small might. Whats the point of going home?

Alice froze for a second, then chuckled softly, stooping to hug her back and stroke her hair.

I need to prepare for my lectures, she explained gently. Ive an early start at university tomorrow, and some revision to do. Ill be back before you know it, promise!

But Sophie had already leapt up, wriggling into the hug.

Well miss you! she said earnestly. Stay, please!

Alice looked from one worried face to another, their request so genuine, and her heart filled with warmth. She crouched down to their level.

But where would I sleep? Alice teased. I couldnt possibly squeeze into your room!

Emily frowned thoughtfully, then brightened.

You could stay in Dads room! The beds huge!

Sophie piped up at once, Yes! Dad works late a lot anywayhonestly, he wouldnt mind!

Alice stifled a laugh. She knew they simply didnt want to part with their nannyfor them, it wasnt complicated at all. She caressed their cheeks.

Thank you for such a generous offer, she said softly, but I really must go home tonight. Tomorrow, though, Ill come a bit earlierso we can play games, read fairy tales, and bake cookies.

The girls exchanged glances, a little disappointed, but Emily finally nodded.

Alright but you will come tomorrow?

Of course, Alice promised, squeezing them close. I never break promises to my favourite girls.

She lingered for another cuddle, then gently pulled away.

Now, lets put the toys away and get you washed up for bed. Dad will be home soon, and hell be chuffed to see how tidy youve been.

They grumbled but obeyedhand in hand, they began tidying up together. Alice watched them with a fond smile; her bond to the girls just grew deeper and deeper.

Truthfully, Alice had blushed furiously at the girls suggestion that she sleep in their fathers room. She knew, intellectually, they hadnt meant anything by itthey simply wanted her to stay. But her own imagination charged ahead: evenings spent in the Morrison home, a warm lamp-lit living room, a quiet chat over tea with Ben Oh, how she would love to remainnot in his room, of course, but just nearby, sharing the simple warmth of family.

But she pulled herself together. Its only a job, she chided herself. Youre the nanny, not a guest. Keen to avoid any further overthinking, she packed her things, offered another cheerful goodbye, and made a swift exit into the crisp evening air.

She inhaled deeply, the cool air calming her as her cheeks still burned. Her eyes shone and she fidgeted nervously with her bag strap, replaying the days events.

Unbeknownst to her, Stephen had watched her quietly from the hallway, grinning. Hed noticed the shift in their home since Alices arrivalhow his dad lingered over her smile, how his sisters giggled more, and how even Alice, always trying to be professional, blushed whenever Ben spoke to her.

I reckon my daft old dad has found a chance, Stephen thought, satisfied. He had long hoped for a mother figure to returnnot just for his sisters, but for his dad too. Alice was just right: kind, patient, lively, and truly adoring of the girls.

Why cant grown-ups just make the first move? he wondered. Are they just shy? Adults are so complicated

That evening when Ben arrived home from work, Stephen decided it was time to intervene. Waited till his dad had set down his briefcase, he took a seat opposite him, arms crossed with determination.

Dad, what are you waiting for?

Ben looked up from his paperwork, a little bemused.

I beg your pardon?

Oh, come on! Stephen grew more animated, You like Alice, she likes youeveryone can see! Just ask her out for a cup of tea. How hard is that?

Ben leaned back, rubbing his brow, suddenly looking uncharacteristically unsure.

Stephen, its not that simple. Shes the girls nanny, theyre so attached. If my feelings scared her off, I couldnt bear it

He trailed off, the room quiet. Images began to flicker in his mind: Emily showing Alice her drawings, Sophie grasping her hand, Alice laughing with them, or talking quietly in the kitchen at the end of the day. What if pursuing his feelings ruined everything?

Stephen was resolute. He leaned forward, eyes earnest.

Shes crazy about you! She goes red as a beetroot whenever you look at her. Shed never make a move, cause she works for us. You dont have to be a hero, Dadjust try.

Ben chuckled despite himself. Stephen spoke as if hed personally lived through a hundred love stories.

You make it sound easy he sighed. But what if I misread everything? Were not in some rom-com, Stephen.

No ones asking you to propose! Stephen replied, exasperated. Start small. Take us all to the park, or to that café the girls love. No pressure, and you can just talk. See how it goes.

Ben considered it. It wasnt such a wild idea after all. There would be no dramatic risks; just an ordinary day together as a family, and perhaps he’d know if there could be something more.

You think itll work? he asked, doubtfully.

Of course! Just give it a go. If its awkward, Ill keep quiet. Promise.

They exchanged a look and both broke into laughter. At that moment, Emilys laughter drifted in from the other room where she and Sophie were playing hide-and-seek with Alice. Ben paused, warmth swelling in his chest. Maybe Stephen was right.

***********************

For days, Ben mulled over Stephens advice: She lights up when you walk in Had he really missed Alices feelings, or was he simply afraid to see them? He let himself remember every glance, every smile, every shy pause.

Entering the house one afternoon, the sound of the girls laughter greeted hima sound that had been missing for too long. He left his coat in the hallway and listened.

Alice, you have to admit itour dads the best in the world! Emily demanded, clearly egged on by Sophie and Stephen.

Absolutely the best, Alice replied, busy plaiting Emilys hair.

Kind and caring! Emily continued, each word echoed by Alice.

And handsome too, right? Sophie giggled.

Oh, very handsome, Alice replied absently, before suddenly blushing crimson as she realised what shed said.

Your dad is the very best, she stammered, trying to recover, and he loves you all so much.

And we love him too! Do you? Sophie pressed, eyes wide and curious.

Excuse me? Alice deflected, nervously adjusting her hair.

Do you love our dad? Sophie insisted.

Alice froze. Even Stephen watched, holding his breath. Flustered, Alice gathered herself.

Oh goodness! Is that the time? she cried, jumping up. Time to make tea! Who wants to help?

Emily and Sophie jumped up at once, forgetting everything else as they raced after her.

Ben chose that moment to step into the room. Alices face lit up the instant she saw him framed in the doorway.

How about eating out tonight? he suggested, aiming for casual. I think we could all use a change of scene.

Excitement erupted instantly.

Can we have ice cream?

And go to the funfair?

Alice hung back, smiling as the girls chattered. Ben leaned closer, lowering his voice.

Are you alright with that? I think the kids would love it.

Thats a lovely idea, she replied softly, still a little pink from embarrassment.

He nodded, warmth spreading inside him. Maybe this was the opening Stephen had in mind. Just a step towards one another, simply being together

************************

Months passed, and life quietly shifted in the Morrison household. Those first cautious outingsparks, cafés, childrens partiesgradually turned into a new family routine. Alice and Ben often found themselves sitting together after the girls bedtime, sipping tea and chatting by the kitchen window.

Both tried not to dwell on how different things feltthat they were no longer simply employer and employee. But the more time passed, the less they could pretend otherwise.

Stephen was delighted. His little plan had worked: Dad smiled more, Alices shyness melted into an assured, gentle happiness.

One evening, while the house slept, Ben and Alice sat on the sofa, mugs cooling beside them in the soft glow.

You know Ben began quietly, gazing at the fairy lights the girls had hung, Ive wanted to say

Alices heart hammered. She looked at him, hope and uncertainty in her eyes.

I cant imagine my life without you now. Not without your smile, your laugh, the way you look after all of us. I love you. Would youwould you stay? Not just as the girls nanny, but as my wife?

Alice took a deep breath, overwhelmed with relief and joy. Then, softly but steadily, she replied:

I love you too. I want to be with you.

*************************

They didnt want a big, fancy weddingjust something warm, with the people who mattered most. On a bright summer day at a charming countryside tearoom, family and close friends gathered. But the most important guests, of course, were Emily, Sophie, and Stephen.

The twins were little princesses in soft pink, busy handing out rose petals. When the moment came, they proudly carried the rings.

Dad, you look dashing! Emily whispered to Ben, who stooped to kiss her head.

And Alice is like a fairy tale princess! Sophie chimed in, watching the bride in her simple, elegant dress.

Stephen stood tall at Bens side, his eyes shining with honest happiness.

See, Dad, he murmured, as the registrar pronounced them husband and wife, I told you it would work out.

Ben smiled, squeezed his sons shoulder, then turned to Alice. The love and gratitude in her gaze stole his breath.

Were a family now, she whispered, linking her hand with his.

Afterwards came a cheerful lunch, laughter, dancing, and the twins clamouring for cake before anyone else. At sunset, after the guests departed, Ben and Alice lingered on the terrace, the scent of blossoms drifting on the breeze.

I think this was the best day of my life, Alice said, leaning into him.

And mine, Ben agreed, holding her close. But the best part, Alice, is that we have so many more to look forward to.

She smiled into his shoulder, and finally understood: all the earlier doubtsher worries, her shynesswere behind her now. She had a home, someone to love, and a future they would create together.

Life had shown her that sometimes the job you take for pocket money turns out to be the opportunity that changes everything. True happiness, she realised, comes when you open your heartto new people, to new beginnings, and to the chance of family, wherever you find it.