When Her "Death" Couldn't Break Him (Cecilia and Nathaniel)

Felix beamed, pulled a silly face at the housekeeper, and chirped to Wren, "Thanks, Granduncle Wren!"

"No need to thank me."

Wren's eyes were awash with indulgent affection; he failed to notice Nathaniel walking in with his wife and children.

Nathaniel, for his part, had not expected Robert to arrive with his own family as well.

Elliot and Jonathan had just overheard and witnessed the scene inside.

Apparently, the toys Wren gave them could be handed to other kids whenever he pleased.

Since returning to the Rainsworth residence, Elena had spoiled the two boys relentlessly. Elliot, bristling on behalf of his divorced grandmother, decided to stage a little tantrum and marched straight up to Felix.

"No way, that toy is mine!"

With one swift grab, Elliot snatched the toy from Felix's hands.

Felix froze, utterly stunned.

Wren hurried to mediate, saying, "Eli, I'll buy you another one later. Let Felix play with this for now, okay?"

But Elliot was no pushover; he instantly protested, "Grandpa, didn't you say these toys were bought especially for my brother and me? You already gave them to us. How can you turn around and give them to somebody else?"

The little boy's words left Wren speechless.

that, or my brother and I

embarrassment colored Wren's

glances at

was mine. Give it back!" he

out to snatch

was healthy again, he was still smaller than Felix. He darted backward at once, keeping the other

rushed forward and planted himself in front of his

What do you think you're doing?" That single question made Felix instantly behave, not

squabble among the three children rendered every

offered you the toy, but Eli and Jon don't

Felix nodded reluctantly.

then did Miranda let

my good boy. Remember what I said.

roundabout way of implying that Elliot

manners.

never let anyone

"Eli, you did the right thing. There's nothing wrong with keeping your own belongings.

"Okay, Mommy."

Elliot nodded firmly.

but with the elders and Nathaniel present,