**Chapter 21**
Lori shook her head, a gentle smile playing on her lips.
“Oh no. It wasn’t a hassle at all. In fact, it was quite refreshing to get out for a bit.”
Gabriel nodded, his expression softening.
“Yeah, you’ve been cooped up indoors for far too long.”
His words resonated with her, and she found herself agreeing wholeheartedly.
“Exactly,” she replied, her gaze drifting momentarily to the window, where the sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm glow across the room.
“How was the ride? Did the car give you any trouble?” he inquired, taking a few strides across the kitchen to gently lift Emilia from her arms.
In that brief moment, as he held his daughter close, Lori felt an electric connection between them. He was so close that she could catch the faint scent of his cologne, a blend of cedarwood and something sweet that lingered on his skin. And as he turned slightly, she couldn’t help but notice the striking clarity of his blue eyes—they were like two deep pools of ocean water, reflecting a myriad of emotions.
Gabriel was too absorbed in his daughter to notice Lori’s lingering gaze.
“No, no trouble at all. I was a bit scared I might crash it,” she admitted, a nervous chuckle escaping her lips. “But thankfully, I didn’t.”
Gabriel scoffed lightly, amusement dancing in his eyes.
“It’s a good thing you didn’t. That car is one of my favorites.”
“Ah, I’m really glad I didn’t ruin it,” she replied, relief washing over her.
“I hope you’re not missing the staff too much. I know you and Grace are pretty close.”
Lori nodded, her heart tugging at the thought of her friends.
“Mr. Gregory stayed to make me breakfast. But yes, I do miss Grace and the others.”
“It’s only for a short time. They’ll be back before you know it,” he reassured her, his voice warm and comforting.
Lori nodded again, but her mind was racing with questions. She understood the logic behind their absence, but the uncertainty gnawed at her. Would she also get a day off? When would be the right moment to ask?
“Have you had dinner yet? There’s chili,” he offered, breaking her train of thought.
Lori shook her head, a hint of regret in her voice.


VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Alpha’s Nanny (Lori and Gabriel)