The taxi rolled to a stop just outside the gates of Southcreek Manor.

Briony stepped out, her hands weighed down by two large shopping bags as she made her way up the stone path to the house.

On the way over, she'd stopped by her studio to pick up the New Year's gifts she'd ordered online weeks ago, figuring this was as good a time as any to finally deliver them.

She pressed the doorbell.

The door swung open almost immediately.

Stewart stood there, lips pressed into a thin line. "The code hasn't changed," he said, voice cool and even.

Briony just nodded, gaze dropping as she stepped inside.

"Is Irwin still locked away in his room?" she asked quietly.

"Yeah," Stewart replied, glancing at the bags in her hands. "You brought him gifts?"

"New Year's presents," she said, her tone flat. Without another word, she started up the stairs.

Stewart lingered in the foyer for a moment, watching her retreat, then followed after.

Upstairs, outside the children's room.

you open the door? I brought you lots

want your stupid presents!" came Irwin's furious shout

weren't busy with work at all! Why did you lie

Briony's brow knit together.

at her like

white lie about being away on business

her hand to knock again, but footsteps creaked

appeared, holding out

darkened when she saw

the key all along, why didn't you open the

somewhere between exasperated and amused. "If you didn't come, unlocking the door wouldn't change anything. What Irwin needs right

But she didn't have the energy to argue. She snatched the key from his

open, Irwin yanked his blanket over his head and

I don't want you as my mom anymore! You're a liar! I hate you-” Briony froze

as my mom anymore. The words hit

since she learned Irwin's birth mother was Rosita, Briony had known, deep down, that one day he'd say something like this. She just hadn't expected it

she knew he was just lashing

one more chance to speak properly,"

turning to

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255