Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

Maynard let out a short, dismissive laugh. "You're not me, so how can you be so sure what I'm saying won't come true?"

Briony pressed her lips together, uncertain.

He continued, "Briony, I know this might seem like I'm taking advantage of the situation, but if you're really thinking about what's best for Lori, give her a father. Trust me I'll claim Lori as my own, and no matter what happens between us in the future, she'll always be my daughter, the eldest granddaughter of the Maynard family."

Briony hesitated.

Lori was Mary and Ferdinand's child. Ferdinand's background was complicated,

and if the truth ever got out, it could only bring trouble for Lori.

A girl needs a strong, dependable family behind her.

Little Nina and little Mario might not have a perfect family, but at least their parents are both there for them. Lori, though—she's still missing a father.

Briony's thoughts churned. She looked up at Maynard.

immediately caught the change in her expression

grief. The neighbors are always showing off their grandkids, and my folks say I'm useless

Briony was speechless.

a weary sigh. "Maynard, this is deceiving your

raised from such a young age-what's the difference, really? She'll

in Lori won't make a difference. And don't worry I'll keep Lori's real parentage a secret for life. As long as you agree,

at him, silent, lost in

family had never been a source of warmth; she'd faced unfairness and hardship growing up.

let Little Nina and little Mario down-something

with such a good chance for

were still here, she'd want Lori

wrestling with her feelings, Briony finally agreed to

known only to a select few, all

in Cedric Clarke's hospital, so all