Military Daddies’ Nanny (Lucky Women’s Daddies Reverse Harem #1)

Chapter 1

Nancy

The kids cling to my legs, tears streaming down their faces. Kelly’s small hands grip my jeans tightly, and Josh buries his face against my hip. My heart swells with emotion, and I bend down to hug them both.

"Aww, Kelly, Josh, I'm going to miss you guys, too. But you have to live with your mom and dad now." My voice wavers, and I struggle to keep my composure.

Sweet six-year-old Kelly, with her big blue eyes glistening with tears, looks up at me. "I’m never going to forget you, Nancy." Her voice is small and full of conviction, and it squeezes my heart.

Josh, who’s nine and trying so hard to be brave despite his own tears, says, "I’m going to miss all my friends, but I’m going to miss you more, Nancy." He wraps his arms around my neck, and I hear the sincerity in his words .

I touch my chest, feeling a mix of pride and sorrow. These kids have become such a big part of my life. I stroke Josh's hair and give Kelly a gentle squeeze. "I’ll miss you both so much, too. But you’re going to have so many adventures with your mom and dad."

Their parents, Mike and Eleanor, stand a few feet away, watching with a mix of gratitude and sadness. Eleanor finally steps forward, her voice gentle but firm. "Okay, Mike, take them to the car."

Mike nods, gently prying Kelly and Josh from me. Kelly’s grip loosens reluctantly, and Josh gives me one last, tight hug before following his dad. I watch them walk away, my eyes following their every step.

I hope they know how much I love them.

The morning air is crisp, the sun casting long shadows across the driveway. The sound of birds chirping contrasts sharply with the heavy silence between Eleanor and me. The kids’ cries still echo in my ears as I watch them climb into the car, their faces pressed against the windows, waving frantically.

Eleanor stays behind, and I turn to her, still feeling the warmth of the kids' hugs. The driveway is flanked by tall oak trees, their leaves rustling softly in the breeze. The garden is in full bloom, colors vibrant against the green lawn. I’ve spent so many mornings here, watching the kids play, teaching them about the flowers.

"Thank you, Nancy," Eleanor says, her voice breaking the silence. "For everything. You’ve been such a big part of their lives."

I nod, my throat tight. "They’re wonderful kids, Eleanor. You and Mike have done a great job with them."

She smiles, but it’s tinged with sadness. "We’re really going to miss you, too. The kids...they adore you."

"I adore them, too," I say, my eyes still on the car as it starts to pull away. "I just want what’s best for them."

Eleanor steps closer, putting a hand on my shoulder. She reaches into her bag and pulls out a wad of cash, pressing it into my hand. “Here, Nancy. It’s five hundred dollars.”

I blink in surprise, my fingers instinctively closing around the money. “Oh, Eleanor, you already paid for my services.”

She shakes her head, a small smile playing on her lips. “No, this is a tip. I cannot thank you enough, Nancy. Since you’ve been taking care of our kids, they’ve been so happy. We’ve been able to talk to them more about their friends, about what’s happening in school. I don’t know how you do it. You must be magic.”

Her words warm me from the inside out. I smile at her, touched by her sincerity. “Thank you so much, Eleanor. You’re a great mom, too.”

Eleanor’s smile falters a bit, and she looks down. “Well, lately, I know we’ve been too busy. We might not have been the best parents.”

I shake my head quickly. “No, not at all. The children never felt neglected. They love you and Mike so much.”

She sighs, her shoulders relaxing slightly. “Well, thank you very much for saying that. We’re headed to my sister’s place now, where we’ll stay until our flight tomorrow.”

I nod, understanding the importance of their departure. They’re starting a new life in a new state because Mike got a new job. I swallow the lump in my throat. “I know it’s a big move for you all. Thank you for your patronage, Eleanor.”

Eleanor reaches out and squeezes my hand. “We’re going to miss you so much. I’ll make sure to leave you a great review.”

“Thanks again, Eleanor,” I say, my voice thick with emotion. I watch as she finally turns and walks toward the car, her steps slow and heavy.

As she gets into the car, I stand there, my hand still warm from her touch. The garden around me seems quieter without the kids' laughter. This place won’t be the same without them.

The car’s engine starts, and I see Kelly and Josh waving from the back seat. I wave back, a bittersweet smile on my face. They’re such wonderful kids, and they’re going to do great things.

Eleanor gives me one last wave before the car pulls away. I watch until they disappear from view, my heart heavy yet full of hope for their future. They’re starting fresh, and so am I, in a way.

It’s a new beginning for all of us.

Walking back inside, I feel a mixture of emotions. Pride for the impact I’ve had on their lives, sadness at their departure, and gratitude for the experience. I’ve done my best for them, and that’s all I could have hoped for.

I close the door behind me, the soft click echoing in the quiet house. I look around and see the remnants of Kelly and Josh's presence—brightly colored toys scattered here and there, a forgotten drawing on the coffee table. I sigh, my heart heavy.

I really am going to miss those kids.

But life moves on, and so must I, on to the next family. I’ve been running a private babysitting service for two years now. I started it right after I graduated from college.

I had always loved kids and wanted a career where I could make a real impact on their lives. When you add the fact that kids don’t judge, and actually see me for who I am? Now that’s what you call a dream job.

So, I took the plunge and started my own business. It wasn’t easy at first; I remembered the struggles, the long days, and the nights spent worrying if I’d made the right choice.

My house is a reflection of my work. It’s filled with toys, books, and all kinds of child-friendly furniture. Every room holds memories of the children I’ve looked after. Each one leaves a mark, a piece of themselves behind.

Running a private babysitting service means I get to form close bonds with the families I work for. I’m not just a babysitter; I’m part of their lives, their routines, their special moments. It’s fulfilling in a way I never expected.

As I tidy up, picking up toys and putting them away, I reflect on the countless kids I’ve cared for over the years. Each one is different, each family unique. It’s a job that requires patience, creativity, and a lot of love.

And I wouldn’t trade it for anything else.

Since I graduated, I’ve dedicated myself to this work. It’s more than just a job. It’s my passion. I’ve seen kids grow, helped them through tough times, and celebrated their successes. It’s a privilege to be a part of their lives.

Looking around, I feel a mix of emotions. I miss Kelly and Josh already, but I know there are other kids out there who need me. I’m ready for my next clients, ready to open my home and heart to them.

This is what I do, and I do it well.

As I work, I decide to call Jamie. She’d called earlier, but I was too busy with the kids to answer. Jamie Long has been my best friend since college, and I know she'll want to hear about my day. She's always so bubbly, and I need that energy right now.

She always knows how to cheer me up.

I dial her number and hold the phone between my ear and shoulder as I gather the toys into a basket. Jamie and I met during our freshman year. I didn’t have many friends in high school, but Jamie and I clicked instantly. She was bold and outgoing, the exact opposite of my quiet, reserved nature.

Sometimes opposites really do attract.

Jamie’s been a true friend from the start. She’s always had my back, even when things got tough. We’ve been through so much together—late-night study sessions, heartbreaks, and countless adventures.

She’s more like a sister than a friend.

Speaking of sisters, one would think I’d be closer to Temple, Jamie’s sister. Temple is quiet like me, and we get along well, but there’s something about Jamie’s wild spirit that just draws me in.

She brings out a side of me I didn’t know I had.

The phone barely rings before she picks up. "Hey, girl! I was trying to call you earlier," Jamie says, her voice bright and full of life. As always, she makes me smile.

"Yeah, sorry about that. I had the kids over," I explain, bending down to pick up a stray stuffed animal. "Kelly and Josh, you know."

"Oh, aren't they leaving the state?" Jamie asks, sounding genuinely curious.

"Yes, they are," I sigh. "Their parents just picked them up. This was the last time I got to see them."

“Oh, I bet you’re going to miss those little rascals,” she says. “You always get so attached to the kids you take care of.”

“Yeah, I do,” I admit. “But it’s all part of the job. And I love it.”

Jamie always understands.

Jamie’s been a huge influence on me. She’s the one who encouraged me to start my babysitting service. She believed in me even when I had doubts. Her confidence in me has always been a stabilizing influence.

"Aww," Jamie coos. "That means you're pretty free now, doesn't it?"

"Yeah, I guess so," I reply, a hint of melancholy in my voice. "I’ve been babysitting Kelly and Josh every single day. I couldn’t take on any other clients. Their parents paid very well, but for the past four weeks, I’ve been tied down to only them."

"So, do you have any clients lined up?" Jamie asks, ever the practical one.

"Oh, no," I admit. "Not yet."

Jamie’s voice brightens even more. "Should I check with parents who might need your services? I can ask them when they're picking up their kids."

Jamie works at a kindergarten, which means she has access to a lot of parents. It’s a great offer, but I reassure her, "No, it's okay. I’m not too strapped for cash. I just got paid." I look at the wad of cash Eleanor handed me earlier. "I’m sure something will pop up soon."

"Okay," Jamie concedes. "Well, since you're free and you just got paid, what’re you up to? Are you going out? Doing anything fun?"

I laugh, knowing exactly where this conversation is heading. "Ugh, don’t remind me, girl. I haven’t done anything exciting in a long time. Not since you stopped dragging me everywhere."

"You're so lucky you work privately," Jamie says. "I’m tied down with this kindergarten job. They even test us for drugs and alcohol. I can’t just go out and drink myself into a stupor knowing I have to be in school the next day."

Jamie used to be constantly drunk in college. Her coffee cups were always filled with alcohol, never coffee. I chuckle at the memory.

It’s a miracle her liver is still intact.

"Hey, this is good for you," I tease. "Not being that crazy party animal anymore."

"Eh, whatever," Jamie says dismissively. "I’m still young. I don’t want my best years to pass me by."

"So, how are you getting your 'oil changed' when you’re so busy at the kindergarten?" I ask, curious.

Jamie’s voice turns playful. "Oh, I’ll have you know that even within the teacher community, there are still some sexy men around."

"Are you messing with a coworker?" I tease, knowing Jamie’s antics.

"I have no comment on that," Jamie says with a laugh. "We’re not talking about me. We’re talking about you. How about you find a couple of strapping young men and enjoy yourself?"

"Would anybody even be interested in me?" I mumble, feeling my cheeks heat up.

"What? Don’t tell me you’ve started that bullshit again," Jamie says sternly.

I blush, my insecurities bubbling to the surface. Growing up, I was always teased about my body. I’ve never felt comfortable in my own skin. I’m a big girl with big breasts and hips, and that made me a target for bullies.

In high school, I was either called fat or a slut because of my body. It was easier to wear big clothes and try to disappear. Jamie swears I’ve grown into my body and I look hot now, but I still struggle to see it.

Jamie is relentless. "You’re wasting your youth by not going out and having sex. Do you want me to come over here and drag you somewhere?" she jokes.

"You live two hours away," I point out. "How do you expect to drag me anywhere when you’re tied down with your job? You’re busy holding down an adult job for the first time in your life. You really don’t have time to worry about my sex life."

"I’ll take matters into my own hands," Jamie declares. "How dare you tell me I can’t balance my job and poke my nose into your sex life?"

I laugh, just as my laptop dings with a new email. "Speaking of work, it seems like fate doesn’t want me to go on any benders. That might be a new client."

"Ugh, fine," Jamie grumbles. "You go check that out. I’ll talk to you later."

"Bye, Jamie," I say, ending the call with a smile.

I walk over to my laptop and open the email, hoping it's a new client. But my mind lingers on Jamie’s words. Maybe she’s right, maybe it’s time to step out of my comfort zone.

Live a little.