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.

in her

grandkids, and my folks say I'm useless for being over thirty with nothing to show

Briony was speechless.

let out a weary sigh. "Maynard, this is deceiving

shrugged. “A child raised from such a young age-what's the difference, really? She'll be family in every way

a difference. And don't worry I'll keep Lori's real parentage a secret for life. As long as you agree, Lori will always be my daughter. She'll be entered into the Maynard family records as our cherished girl, and I'll make sure she

him, silent,

a source of warmth; she'd faced unfairness and hardship growing up. More than anything, she wanted her children to have the loving, complete family

Nina and little Mario down-something she'd always

chance for

want Lori to have the best life

with her feelings, Briony

was known only

Cedric Clarke's hospital, so all Briony needed to do