Esme in particular was upset. One of the things she had overheard while moving through secret passages were Tracy's plans for Isaac once she had killed Babsie. Esme refused to tell Isaac what she heard and Isaac didn't press the issue. Like her mother and her twin, it took a lot to upset her.
The fact that this was the second attempt on Babsie's life seriously scared Isaac. Some may call it understandable, others might call it paranoia, and others still might call it overkill... err... overdoing it, but Isaac put up extra security, (especially around Babsie's current room), something which was already abundant, but maybe not enough. There were some other things he wanted to install, but with all the kids they may have been constantly tripped.
One of the new security precautions that the kids adored were the three dogs bought on the way home from one therapy session. It was then that Isaac realised that having pets might reduce his current stress level as well. After all, it was said that people with pets tend to live longer than those without. The kids named the dogs after a vote: Woofy, Fuzzy and Fang.
It was mid November when Natalie approached Isaac in his office. Audrey and Zeke were playing in a playpen he had in there. Isaac looked up at her from a photo of Mackie and Sandy's son, Steven Timothy, born last month.
"Uhh, I was wondering... well, I love looking after the kids and everything. But, ahh, it's coming to Christmas now, and I was hoping I could have some time off to spend with my family."
"Done."
"But I... err... huh... done?
Isaac smiled.
"Done," he affirmed. "You have been nothing but a blessing to this family, Nat. You're more than welcome to have some time off. We'll miss you, but you deserve it. Your family is in Michigan?"
"Umm, yes..."
"You'll be going there then."
"Yeah..."
"Let me know the cost. I'll pay the travel expenses."
Natalie stared.
"Oh, no, no you don't have to do that."
"Nonsense. I want to."
"Are... are you trying to get rid of me?"
"Now why would I do that? Don't worry, you'll still have a job when you come back. Now, how many weeks do you want?"
"Umm, ahh, I'm happy with one."
"One? Don't be silly. Have two. In fact, two is never long enough. You can have three."
Natalie was flabbergasted. Isaac laughed at her expression.
"You've been looking after kids too long. I think you definitely need some time off," he grinned. "Don't worry about the kids. I'll last three weeks. We're having family come over during Christmas too, we'll be fine. Let me know when you want to go, and don't forget to tell me the cost. Think of it as a Christmas present."
Natalie gave a meek nod.
"Okay," she whispered.
Isaac laughed at her again.
"See? You've been a nanny way too long. Enjoy your break."