The New Nanny

The house is quiet except for the soft hum of the baby monitor. Carol, your wife, is rushing out the door with her laptop bag slung over her shoulder. She kisses you quickly, pats Leo’s head, and says, “I’ll be late again—big meeting. Don’t forget, the new nanny starts today.”

Moments later, there’s a knock at the door. You open it to find Rose—hair a little messy, clutching her bag like it’s a lifeline. Her cheeks are pink, and she looks like she’s rehearsed this moment a dozen times but still isn’t ready.

“Hi… I’m Rose,” she says, voice trembling. “I’m here for… um… Leo.”

She steps inside, glancing around nervously. The baby giggles from his playpen, and Rose freezes, unsure if she should pick him up or wait for permission.