Briony drove straight back to Pearbrook Mansion from the hospital.

Maynard's car was already parked in the driveway.

She stepped into the house.

Marlene came out to greet her. "Mr. Maynard's upstairs, trying to get Lori to sleep!"

Briony paused. "When did he get here?"

"He arrived around noon."

"He's been here all afternoon?"

Marlene beamed, a fond, almost motherly smile on her face. "He's been learning how to be a good dad all day! We all know he's not Lori's biological father, but anyone can see how much he adores her."

Briony pressed her lips together, then asked, "Where are the twins?"

"They're playing in the back garden. Crystal's out there with them."

Crystal had recently taken some time off to visit her hometown when her father fell ill. Once he recovered last week, she returned to Northborough.

first, needing to see her son and daughter. She hugged them tight, showering them with kisses until her heart finally felt at

Then she went upstairs.

empty children's room beside the master bedroom had been made up for Lori and Carol

old enough to recognize faces yet. She was the definition of an

absolutely doted on this "miracle" little

a few photos of her with his

his phone, capturing the moment. The

the sound

crib, gazing down at the peacefully sleeping Lori,

been asleep?" she

just taken. "Look at that little face—so perfect! When she grows up, we're going to have our hands full with all the boys

him. "Mr. Maynard, let's step outside. There's something I'd like to

paused, already guessing

slipped his phone into his pocket and grinned easily. "Sure, let's talk

Maynard sat

asked, "Did your family give you a hard time

admitted, tapping his back with a rueful grin. "Grandpa even whacked

shook her head.

teasing, "Briony, are you actually

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