She knelt down slowly, her fingertips tracing the black-and-white photograph of Mary set into the gravestone.

"Mary, the hospital called this morning. They said the baby's out of danger. In a few days, she'll be well enough to come home. Don't worry, I'll raise her as my own. You don't have to fear she'll be alone in the world-I promise, I'll love her like she's mine..."

In the photo, Mary's smile bloomed, vivid and full of life.

Briony gently brushed her fingers over Mary's eyes. "Oh, Mary... You left us so suddenly, you didn't even get to meet your little girl. When she's a bit older, I'll bring her to visit you. I promise."

After she returned from the cemetery, Briony fell ill.

A low fever left her drifting in and out of sleep for two days.

During that time, Kendal stopped by, brought her some medicine, and even performed acupuncture to help her recover.

Two days later, Briony's fever broke.

On the third day, it was time for Lori to come home from the hospital.

Carol, a professional nanny, had already discussed things with Briony. From now on, Carol would help take care of Lori.

Early that morning, Briony and Carol went to the hospital together to bring Lori home.

had Briony sign the discharge

tiny baby, and already

was calm now-soft and warm in Briony's arms, sleeping

back at the house, they ran into Stewart just as he was

gave him a polite nod, then

hand tightened on the car door as he watched her

the new baby in their mother's arms, waved a quick goodbye to their dad and hurried

a quiet sigh, slipped into the driver's seat, and the sleek black

sofa with Lori in her lap. Little Nina and little Mario squeezed in at either side,

eyes sparkled as she

name is Lori. From now on, she's going to be your little

Nina looked up in surprise. "We were only gone a few days, and now

up, "If Mom's the same,

whole time! When did he have time to help Mom with a

Briony was speechless.

like Lori's story would take

preschool now. Briony knew that, if she explained things carefully, they would

Lori behind. From now on, Lori would be part of their

closely and

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

Comments ()

0/255