The Mafia nanny [✓complete]

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Leah's POV

The day ahead seemed like a daunting journey through rough terrain, but I knew I had to navigate it somehow.

My emotions weighed heavily on my shoulders as I pushed myself forward.

As I stumbled into the bathroom, I looked at my reflection in the mirror.

My eyes were puffy from crying, and the exhaustion etched across my face told a story of sleepless nights.

I splashed some water on my face, hoping it would wake me up from this miserable reality.

I ran a brush through my dishevelled hair, trying to regain some semblance of my normal self.

Dressing felt like an ordeal. I settled on an outfit that was practical but lacked any sense of enthusiasm. The clothes felt heavy, just like my heart.

With every step, I was reminded of the weight of that wedding invitation. It hung at the back of my mind, an ever-present shadow.

As I moved through my room, I tried to find solace in my morning routine.

But my thoughts kept circling back to Matteo and his wedding invitation.

Should I accept it?

My whole self is voting 'no'.

But if I don't go it'll show I haven't moved on.

This is truly the cruel twist of fate, and I couldn't help but wonder why life had chosen this path for me.

Despite the thoughts of my heart, I knew I had to keep moving forward.

There was no other choice.

So, with a sigh and a sore heart, I walked out into a world that suddenly felt so much colder and lonelier than before.

As I walked out I summoned all my strength to put on a brave face for the kids.

I didn't want them to worry.

I walked down the corridor to their rooms, but with every step, it felt like a thousand-pound weight was pressing down on me.

First, I knocked on Gabriel's door.

Surprisingly he opened it with his usual cheery smile.

"Good morning Gabriel" I greeted.

He smiled "Good morning Mammy", he opened the door wider so I could walk in.

I went to his closet to take his clothes out. I took then and laid it on his bed.

"Mammy, are you okay?" he asked genuine concern in his eyes.

I knelt down to his level and ruffled his hair.

"Yeah" I sighed "I'm just a bit tired today, sweetheart. But that's it." I managed to force a smile.

"Okay," he gave a thumbs up.

"Now go get ready for school or you'll be late" I patted his back, and he nodded and went to his bathroom.

Next, I moved to Bella's room.

She was sitting on her bed, "Good morning" I said.

She jumped off her bed to hug me. I hugged back.

"Mammy, you don't look good. Are you sick?" she asked looking up at me.

I hugged her tightly. "No, I'm not sick. Just a bit tired. But I'm okay."

Finally, I went to check on the girl. She was still holding onto the stuffed bear Gabriel had given her, and her eyes, although hesitant, met mine.

I knelt beside her and gently touched her cheek. "Good morning," I whispered softly, hoping my words would somehow reach her.