It was clear now-Ferdinand was never meant to be Briony's soulmate.

The White family home was always full of laughter and warmth, especially during the holidays, but Gwendolyn White's heart was never quite at ease when it came to Briony.

Though she wasn't Briony's biological mother, Gwendolyn cared more about the rest of Briony's life than Julia ever could.

Julia, for her part, was sweet and affectionate but had a childlike dependence on Briony. With her memories still hazy, Julia's state of mind had never quite matured; she worried little about her daughter, who was now a mother herself.

As the night grew late, everyone retired to their rooms.

Briony tucked her two children into bed, humming softly as they drifted off.

A gentle knock sounded at the door.

Briony got up and opened it.

Gwendolyn White stood in the hallway, her voice low and tender. "Are the kids asleep?"

stepping out and looping her arm through Gwendolyn's. "Couldn't

affection, Gwendolyn smiled. "It's been so long since we've

was warm and calm. "Shall we have a drink

no stranger to a glass of good wine, and ever since Briony had taken over

"A little red does

agreed with a soft

the kitchen, Briony uncorked a bottle and

felt a bit too bare, so she quickly put together a couple of light snacks -cheese,

settled at the dining table, clinking

generous sip, draining nearly half her

become at this— she must have had her share

but there was a new

growing up-after you've figured out the

as she watched her-still so young at just past thirty, yet already resigned

You really should have someone by your side," Gwendolyn said

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