Episode 19

Helena was all set... As soon as she glanced at the clock, noticing it was nearing noon, she was already dressed in a breezy dress, a pair of sandals on her feet, with a backpack slung over her shoulder... her hair twisted up into a bun.

Her failed attempt at slipping away unnoticed, ironically, drew even more attention from everyone in the house.

When she reached the living room, she was met by an unexpected sight...

"Wowwww... what have you done to my nanny?" Nicolas mocked upon seeing her look so different.

"Nicolas, good morning... Have you had your breakfast? Is your room in order?"

Nicolas looked at her, and by some miracle, seemed to be in a good mood.

"According to the handbook, page 5, clause 3, line two, it says that on Sundays, my nanny, that being you, gets a day off; therefore, no one can boss me around today..."

Helena smiled and approached him for a simple hug...

At first, the boy seemed uncomfortable, but then he gave in to the affectionate gesture and hugged her back.

"Are you leaving?"

"Of course not... Just for today, but tomorrow I'll be back as usual, to follow the handbook."

What neither of them knew was that Blake, with his usual antisocial demeanor, was approaching from behind. Blake stood watching Nicolas embrace Helena. That sight stirred something in him because ever since Helena had arrived at their home, his son had been trying to improve his aggressive behavior, albeit very slowly.

Helena said goodbye to Nicolas and did the same with Gloria and little Elisa as well.

In somewhat of a hurry, she headed toward the house's exit when she heard a hoarse voice behind her which sent shivers down her spine.

"Aren't you going to say goodbye to me too, Miss Helena?"

She turned around and with one of her most compelling looks replied.

"Yes, Mr. Blake... until tomorrow."

"Don't go out partying and forget your duties for tomorrow morning."

"As much as I'd like to, I am well aware of my responsibilities, especially the one on page 01, clause 13, Mr. Blake... Take care, see you tomorrow."

They brushed past each other as she walked by, a shiver running through both of them...

She left quickly, but even if just for a few hours, she could feel normal again... no children, no uniforms, and no need to watch her language... free from rules...

As Helena stepped outside and saw her friend Alissa waiting in her car, a huge smile spread across her face, and she hopped in, brimming with happiness.