N.do Nanny Survived Dinner With His Quadruplets—Until a Broke Stranger Took Charge...

One year later.

The summer sun beamed down over the velvet lawns of the Hale estate, casting golden light over a massive wooden gazebo that had been built near the flower gardens.

A long table was set under the shade, piled high with fresh fruit, grilled food, and a massive bowl of homemade carbonara.

Sitting around the table was a scene that would have seemed impossible twelve months ago.

Mason, now seven, was patiently teaching seven-year-old Lily how to tie a proper climber’s knot. Cole was showing Ryder how to use a magnifying glass to inspect garden beetles, while Theo sat beside them, drawing a detailed portrait of the family dog—a golden retriever they had adopted three months prior.

Mrs. Whitaker walked out of the house carrying a tray of iced tea, laughing as Ryder tried to sneak an early berry from the table.

At the head of the gazebo stood Clara, wearing a simple, elegant yellow sunburst dress. Her hair was loose, catching the warm summer breeze. She looked whole, radiant, and completely at peace.

A pair of strong arms wrapped around her waist from behind, pulling her back against a broad, warm chest.

Victor rested his chin gently on her shoulder, his breath warm against her ear. "They're plotting something," he whispered, gesturing toward the four boys and Lily.

Clara giggled, resting her hands over his on her stomach. "They're always plotting something, Mr. Hale. That's why we hire security."

"Security can't handle them," Victor smiled, kissing her cheek softly. "Only you can."

Mason suddenly stood up from the table, holding a glass of apple juice high in the air. "A toast!" he announced loudly.

Cole, Ryder, Theo, and Lily all raised their glasses.

"To the nanny who didn't run away!" Mason shouted.

"To the carbonara!" Cole added.

"To Mom!" Lily cheered, her voice ringing clear and bright across the garden.

Clara’s eyes filled with soft, happy tears. She turned around in Victor’s arms, wrapping her hands around his neck as he pulled her close, kissing her deeply under the afternoon sun.