Not Just a Nanny
Alice sat hunched over her books in the university library, a fortress of textbooks and notes strewn across the table. Her fingers flipped pages with nervous urgency, eyes darting from one line to the nextall in a desperate bid to cram before the dreaded midterm. Their lecturer was infamous for his strictness: fail his exam, and a retake was practically guaranteed. Alice couldnt afford that, not in a term as stressful as this one.
Suddenly, her coursemate, Harriet, sidled over. She perched on the edge of the table, leaning in with a conspiratorial air, and whispered gently:
Youre still looking for a part-time job, arent you?
Alice nodded, barely glancing up from her revision, her mind locked onto the facts before her. Every minute counted.
Mhm, she managed at last, forcing herself not to lose the thread of her studying. But its all about timing. You know our lectures run till two every day, and I cant skip.
Harriet gave her a warm, knowing smile. She understood all too well how seriously Alice took her studies. After a brief pause, Harriets voice brightened:
Ive actually got the perfect gig for you. Its my neighbourbit of a complex situation, actually. His wife passed away, I think, though Im not a hundred percent. Anyway, hes up to his ears with work and he needs someone to look after his kids in the evenings. Four until eight or so.
Alice finally lifted her eyes, curiosity breaking through her concentration.
Youre brilliant with children, you study at the Education faculty, and youve got more experience than mostthose four younger brothers of yours.
Alices mind drifted to her siblings, her heart warming at the memory. Shed always been the one to help her mum with the boysnot out of duty, but because it felt right and made her happy, despite the chaos.
How old are the kids? she asked, genuine concern colouring her voice.
Harriet grinned, sensing Alices interest. Twin girls, about six. And theres an older one, but hes thirteen, busy with sports, barely home for more than meals and sleep.
Alice spun a pencil in her fingers, thoughts racing. Being a nannyit was a tempting prospect, but daunting too. Caring for someone elses children, children whose world had fallen apartit wasnt just babysitting.
And you think hed hire me? I mean, Im only in my fourth year, degrees not finished
Harriet waved away her qualms with a dismissive flick. Hell take you. Literally asked me yesterday if I knew anyone trustworthy. So, do I give him your number?
The confidence in Harriets voice gave Alice pause. She glanced at the clockonly half an hour till her next seminar, no time for more hesitation. Maybe this was just the opportunity she needed: a job close to campus, flexible hours, and surely the little ones would be adorable.
Her heart thudded, a mix of nerves and anticipation. She took a deep breath, smiled, and said firmly, Alright. Lets do it.
***
Alice was fidgeting with nerves. Today was her first real dayher first time nannying for a proper family, not just wrangling her own brothers. She checked her bag three times: phone, keys, notebook, a little pouch of snacks for the twins. Everything in order.
Meeting Mr. Morgan and his children had gone better than expected. He was a calm, thoughtful man, quick to explain the girls routines and habits. The twinsEmma and Gracewere shy at first, peeking out from behind their father; but within ten minutes they were chattering away, showing Alice their crayon masterpieces. She liked them instantly, couldnt help but smile at their guileless chatter and matching giggles.
Yet it wasnt just the children who made an impressionMr. Morgan was, frankly, nothing like what Alice had pictured from Harriets brief account. Tall, quietly handsome, with a gentle voice and a half-crooked, earnest smile; he radiated warmth. Alice scolded herself for the blush that crept up every time he looked her way. This was a job. Professional. Nothing more.
She reached the small nursery schoola cheerful, bustling placeas the afternoon sun dipped low. At the gate, she presented the note Mr. Morgan had given her, the staff already briefed on who she was. Taking a steadying breath, she smoothed her hair and made her way onto the playground.
The twins stood near the swings, whispering and watching the other children. Spotting Alice, they froze, then offered shy smiles.
Alice approached carefully, kneeling so her eyes met theirs. Ready to head home, girls? Ive got an idea for something delicious we can make together.
Emma edged forward, peering up. What will you make? she asked, a hint of suspicion flickering across her face.
Alice feigned deep thought. Hmm, maybe pancakes with jam? Or chocolate chip biscuits?
Graces eyes lit up. Biscuits! I love biscuits with chocolate bits!
Alice grinned, holding out both hands. Then biscuits it is. Shall we?
The girls hesitated, then linked their small fingers with hers. In that moment, the last of her anxiousness dissolved, replaced by a gentle warmth. Perhaps things would work out better than shed feared.
The two exchanged a lookfleeting, but full of seriousness. They moved in step, hands joined, mirroring one another like an unspoken pact. Alice couldnt help but be charmed, but then remembered the honest conversation shed had with Samuel, the older brother, the day before.
Hed pulled her aside with awkward, teenage gravity.
They used to be different, hed said gruffly, tugging at his school tie. Open, always up for a cuddle, always laughing. But afterwell, after Mum Hed paused, pressing lips together. Now theyre justclosed off. Sometimes they cry and keep asking if they did something wrong. Me and Dad, we keep telling them it wasnt their fault, that Mum loved them. Still, they dont let anyone close. Our gran came round for a while but shes not well either, and Dadwell, thats why youre here.
His voice had held a strange mix of tiredness and resolve. He carried himself like someone much olderdetermined to hold things together for his sisters and father.
Alice had simply nodded, too choked up to reply. Looking at Emma and Grace now, she vividly understood the fragile trust shed been handed.
But they warmed up to me pretty quickly, Alice had told Samuel afterwards. We managed to play a bitthe handkerchief tricks really cracked them up.
Samuel had eyed her keenly, then nodded, suddenly serious, Thats why Dad picked you. Justdont let us down, alright?
In his gaze was a weight of hope, but also fear. Alice promised, voice steady: Ill do my best. I want them to smile again.
Samuel relaxed, offering a rare, genuine smile of his own. Ill help when I can. Im good at bedtime stories, if training doesnt clash.
Alice returned his warmth. I think theyll love that.
***
Two months passed since Alice joined the Morgans. The ice in the household slowly melted. Emma and Grace, once withdrawn, now greeted her with squeals and excited tales, clinging to her when it was time to go home.
This evening, as she tidied the scattered toys and hummed the new song theyd learnt, the girls sat watching her sadly from the sofa.
Stay with us! Emma burst out, leaping up and wrapping her arms tightly round Alices waist. Whats the point in going home?
Alice laughed softly, kneeling down to meet her eye. She hugged Emma back, stroking her soft hair.
Ive got to revise, darlingtheres a big seminar tomorrow. But Ill be here in the morning, before you have time to miss me, she added, trying to sound cheerful.
But Grace had already wedged herself next to Emma, arms outstretched. Were already missing you! Please, stay!
Alice looked at their anxious faces, the hope and trust shining in their eyes. She knelt on the carpet.
And where would I sleep? she teased gently. I cant take up space in your room, can I?
Emma frowned thoughtfully, then her face brightened. Daddys got that huge bed! You could sleep there, hed say yes!
Grace nodded fervently. Yeah! Daddy works late sometimes, he wouldnt mind!
Alice stifled a smile, understanding the innocent longing behind the suggestion. Thats a very kind thought, she said, brushing their cheeks. But I really must get home tonight. I promise, Ill be here early tomorrowwell have time for stories and to bake biscuits.
The girls exchanged a look and reluctantly nodded. You will come? Emma pressed.
Of course. I never let my favourite girls down.
She hugged them again, before gently disentangling herself.
Now, lets tidy up. Ill help you wash before bed. Daddy will be home soon, and hell love seeing everything just right.
They let her go, no longer so miserable, and plunged into tidying with gusto, skipping hand-in-hand. Watching them, something in Alices chest swelled with warmth. She was fast becoming one of the family.
Still, shed almost spluttered when the girls had suggested she sleep in Mr. Morgans bed. She knew, of course, they meant nothing by itchildren rarely dobut fantasy pricked at her anyway: a quiet evening in the warm Morgan home, gentle lamplight, a late-night chat over tea with Mr. Morgan How lovely it would be, just to sit beside him, sharing thoughts and laughter. Not, obviously, to spend the night in his bedshe rebuked herself sharply, shoving the silly notion away.
Its just the job, Alice, she reminded herself. Youre the nanny, not a guest. Collecting her things, she promised again to return, then practically fled into the cool night, cheeks burning and heart a-flutter.
Unbeknownst to her, Samuel was watching from the hallway, arms crossed, a wry smile tugging at his lips. Hed noticed all the small changes since Alice arrivedhis dads quiet, softer voice around her; Alices little blushes, how her smile lingered on Mr. Morgan. As far as Samuel could see, both adults were smittenthey just didnt know how to admit it.
Come on, Dad, he muttered to himself. What are you waiting for?
When Mr. Morgan returned that evening, Samuel confronted him after supper, speaking with the solemnity of someone twice his age.
Dad, why are you dragging your feet? he began bluntly.
Mr. Morgan blinked at his son in bemusement. What?
Dont what me. You like Alice, she likes you. Invite her out! Stop going round in circles.
Colour rose in Mr. Morgans cheeks. He was uncharacteristically flustered. Sam, shes our nanny. Its important she gets on with the girls, thats all.
Samuel rolled his eyes. Please. Anyone can see you both fancy each other. You look at Alice like shes made of gold, and she goes pink every time. I swear, grown-ups are ridiculous.
Mr. Morgan pushed a hand through his hair, clearly unsettled. Sam, its complicated. If I mess things up, if she feels uncomfortable, she might leaveand the girls are finally happy again. I cant risk that, son.
Samuel fixed him with a steady, almost fatherly gaze. She wont. Shes waiting for you to make the first moveshes probably more scared than you. You just have to ask.
Mr. Morgan sighed, running a hand over his face. Easier said than done. This isnt a film, Sam
You dont have to serenade her, Samuel broke in, exasperated. Take her and us all out for a changego to the park or for ice cream. Something low key, but together. Shell feel comfortable and youll get to talk.
Mr. Morgan considered it, the idea clearly settling into place. He pictured the girls on the swings, the nearby café with their favourite knickerbocker glories Perhaps this was the way.
Think thatll really work? he asked, still cautious.
Samuels answer was immediate. Yes! Just try. If it gets weird, Ill keep quiet, promise.
Father and son grinned at each other, laughter easing the tension. Just then, the peals of laughter from Emma and Grace drifted through from the loungeplaying hide and seek with Alice. Mr. Morgan found himself smiling as well, hope glimmering. Maybe Samuel was right. Maybe it was time to leap.
***
Mr. Morgan mulled over Samuels words for days after. Alice is besotted. You only have to ask He caught himself recalling the way Alice looked at him, her cheeks flushing, her smile softening at his praise and concern for the girls.
Have I really been oblivious? he wondered, unlocking the front door one Thursday evening. Or just too scared to admit it?
From the far end of the house, the sound of childrens laughter washed towards hima sound they hadnt heard for too long. He removed his coat, set down his briefcase, and waited, listening.
Alices voice rang out from the lounge, gently teasing as she weaved braids into Emmas hair.
Go on, Alice, tell usour Dads the best in the whole world, isnt he? Emma insisted, obviously prompted by Grace and Samuel.
The very best, Alice replied, fingers deftly plaiting fair hair. Kind, caring
And handsome, right? Grace chimed in, grinning impishly.
Very handsome, Alice murmured, still absorbed in her work. Then, suddenly cottoning on to what she’d said, her blush flooded to the roots of her hair.
She tried to recover: Hes the best dad ever. And he loves you all so much.
And we love him! Do you? Grace shot her a direct, searching look.
Me? Alice echoed, feigning confusion, her cheeks aflame.
Do you love Dad? Grace persisted, stubborn as ever.
Alice froze. The room went silent. Even Samuel, lounging nearby, held his breath. Alice worried her lip, scanning for a distraction.
Ohlook at the time! she blurted. Wed better get supper started. Who wants to help?
She dashed to the kitchen, desperate to escape the question. The twins gave each other a look, mildly disappointed, but soon scampered after her, eager for their shift as sous-chefs.
Mr. Morgan, whod kept to the hallway till now, wandered in, catching Alices relieved, sparkling glance as she spotted him.
Shall we go out for dinner? he asked with a smile, lowering his voice so only she could hear. I think the girls could use a night outand so could we, frankly.
At once, the twins exploded in jubilant chatter.
To the restaurant! Hooray!
Ice cream too?
And the merry-go-round?
Alice smiled, unable to help herself, as he drew closer.
You dont mind? he asked quietly.
Not at all. I think its a wonderful idea, she replied, still tinged pink from before.
He nodded, heart swelling. Perhaps this really was their chancetime together, all five of them, no pressure, no expectations. Just a family, just for tonight.
***
The months edged by and the changes, though subtle at first, grew rooted. The family outingsto the parks, the cafés, the odd country fairbecame normal, something to look forward to. Mr. Morgan and Alice started lingering after the girls were put to bed, sharing mugs of tea at the kitchen table, swapping stories and laughter well after midnight.
At first they danced around their feelings, pretending everything stayed neatly professional. But soon it was impossible to ignore the truth: the lines had long blurred.
Samuel watched the whole affair with the satisfied patience of a chess-master. His plan had worked: his dad now smiled more; Alices bashfulness replaced by a confident, tender joy.
One evening, after the children drifted off, Mr. Morgan and Alice sat close together in the lamplight. The untouched tea cooled on the table.
You know, he began softly, tracing the fairy lights decorating the window, theres something Ive wanted to say for a while
Alices heart skipped. She glanced at him, eyes wide, cheeks brushed with hope.
I cant imagine my life without you. Without your laugh, or your kindness. I love you, Alice. And I dont just mean as our nanny. Id like you to marry mebe part of our family for real.
Alice hesitated, breath caught with emotion, then whispered back, voice sure: I love you too, George. Id like nothing more.
***
They didnt want a big weddingjust loved ones, a spring afternoon, a sunlit garden behind a country pub near the Hampshire downs. The décor was cheerful but simple; ribbons, fresh flowers, and enough bunting for the twins to dance under.
Emma and Grace, resplendent in matching pink frocks, solemnly carried the ring cushion. Samuel stood beside his father, pride in every line of his posture.
You look amazing, Dad, Emma whispered as George stooped to peck her on the crown.
And Alice looks like a fairy princess! Grace beamed, eyes twinkling at the brides elegant white gown.
When the registrar pronounced them husband and wife, Samuel nudged George knowingly, Told you so, Dad.
George grinned, squeezing his sons shoulder before pulling Alice close. In her eyes danced a happiness so deep it took his breath away.
Were a proper family now, she said quietly, interlacing her fingers with his.
Festivities followedlaughter, stories, children dashing between unsuspecting relatives, demands for more cake and one extra bedtime story.
That evening, after the last guest departed, Alice and George lingered together on the pubs veranda, under a canopy of stars and the soft smell of roses drifting from the garden.
This was the best day of my life, Alice breathed, tucking herself under his arm.
And mine, he murmured, holding her tight. But you know the best part? Weve got a lifetime of days like this ahead of us.
She smiled, love shining under the quiet night, and finally understood: the doubts, the nerves, the longingtheyd all led to this. To family, to belonging, to the sort of happiness theyd both thought lost. And together, no matter what came, theyd build something stronger.
