Briony rested her hand on her belly, a gentle warmth blossoming in her heart.

She didn't hope for her child to be especially gifted-just healthy and safe. That would be enough.

...

Stewart drove himself back to Southcreek Manor. After picking up Irwin, he

headed straight for Lunar Heights Estate.

Inside the car, Irwin sat in the backseat and asked, "Dad, we're just having dinner with Mom Rosita, right?"

"That's right," Stewart replied.

"So I don't have to sleep over there tonight, do I?"

At this, Stewart glanced up, catching Irwin's eyes in the rearview mirror. "That's up to you. If you want to stay the night, you can."

"I don't want to!" Irwin pouted. "Mom Rosita doesn't know how to cook, and she never reads me bedtime stories. Plus, I always have nightmares when I sleep there."

"Alright," Stewart said, "I'll bring you back to Southcreek Manor after dinner." Irwin's face instantly lit up. "Thank you, Dad! You're the best!"

smile tugged at

pulled into the driveway at Lunar Heights

the car, Rosita hurried out of

"Irwin!"

heard her call. His small frame stiffened

remember the last time

edging behind Stewart and clutching the back of his suit jacket with both hands. "Dad,

Irwin

momentarily taken

hiding from her, her eyes filled with

face in his father's

the bitterness in Rosita's

Tears slipped down Rosita's cheeks, her slender frame trembling,

your episode,

Rosita froze.

control at dinner, just because Irwin had complimented Briony? Had a single outburst made her son resent

but a flicker of defiance and frustration flashed in

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

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