The Alpha’s Nanny (Lori and Gabriel) novel Chapter 17

**The Ocean Remembers Everything**
By Julia Allan

**Chapter 17**

At long last, a semblance of normalcy had settled into their lives, a rhythm that, much to Lori’s relief, kept her from resembling a sleep-deprived zombie more often than not. This was a welcome change, a very welcome change indeed.

As the days unfolded, Lori found herself enveloped in a rare sense of tranquility. For the first time in what felt like ages, her nights had been free of nightmares, a blissful reprieve that had persisted for an entire week—ever since she had begun her work with the Caines.

The sensation was nothing short of liberating.

With a gentle motion, she secured Emilia in the baby wrap, her heart swelling with affection for the tiny girl who had brought so much light into her life. Grabbing the pile of dirty bottles that had accumulated, she made her way downstairs, the clinking of glass echoing softly in the spacious house.

It was a peculiar morning; several staff members were absent. Apparently, Mr. Gabriel had decided to grant them a day off each month, a fact that Jenny had shared with her while packing her own bag the night before. Lori recalled the moment vividly—Jenny’s hurried movements, the slight frown on her face as she rushed to prepare for her day away.

When morning arrived, Lori was greeted by Mr. Gregory, who, despite her protests, insisted on making her breakfast. “You need to eat, Lori,” he had said, his tone leaving no room for argument. Starved and unable to resist the aroma of freshly cooked food, she relented, grateful for his kindness.

Mr. Gabriel was conspicuously absent that morning, having left at the crack of dawn, citing an emergency. Now, as the clock inched toward noon, Lori realized with a mixture of surprise and delight that she was nearly alone in the house. Elliot had departed for the beach house earlier that day, leaving her with an odd sense of freedom.

It was an unusual feeling, yet she found herself relishing the solitude. The house, grand and somewhat imposing, had transformed into a sanctuary of sorts. She had spent the morning engrossed in the stack of classic literature that Gabriel had lent her, five books in total. He had apologized for their age, a gesture that made Lori smile. She, however, was more of a contemporary novel enthusiast, yet she dove into one of the classics and discovered a surprising enjoyment in its pages.

To her delight, Emilia was exceptionally well-behaved that morning, her little coos and gurgles filling the air instead of cries. Not once did she fuss during tummy time or while Lori attempted to ease her into a nap.

After completing the task of washing the bottles, Lori placed them carefully on the counter to dry, her mind shifting to a pressing need. She needed to check the pantry for diapers.

Having scoured the nursery with no success, she recalled Grace’s words about the garage being a potential treasure trove for baby supplies. With a determined sigh, Lori ventured into the garage, only to be met with a chaotic jumble of boxes and assorted junk.

For ten long minutes, she rummaged through the clutter, frustration mounting with each fruitless search. Finally, overwhelmed, she decided to reach out to Gabriel for help.

*Emilia’s out of diapers.* – Lori

Her fingers flew over the screen, and within moments, a reply pinged back.

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