Sandra, ever the actress, rushed to Hannah’s side, her face a mask of concern.
“Lionel, it’s all my fault. This is all my fault,” she said, stepping between them and looking down with a pained expression. “I just thought, since you grew up in an orphanage, you would love this place and feel a connection to it. I wanted to surprise you, especially since you’ve been so down lately.”
She took a deep breath and closed her eyes dramatically. “Hannah, if you’re angry, blame me. Hit me, yell at me, do whatever you want. But don't blame Lionel. This was all my idea.”
“Sandra, Lionel might be a fool you can wrap around your little finger, but I’m not. I know exactly what game you’re playing!” Hannah retorted, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears as she glared at her.
“Mr. Rosenberg, Ms. Woods, please come in! The children are waiting,” Jason called from the doorway, unable to hear their hushed, tense conversation.
“Sandra, you go on ahead,” Lionel said coolly.
Sandra looked like she wanted to say more, but seeing the dark expression on his face, she simply nodded and walked inside.
Hannah’s face was a storm cloud as she watched him. He was angry. His brow was furrowed in fury. But what right did he have to be angry? She was the one who should be furious.
“Whatever you want to say or do, we’re already here. So, for today, you will put on a brave face and be here for the children.”
Hannah stared at him in disbelief. Before she could utter a word, he grabbed her arm and pulled her inside.
Jason brought them three glasses of juice.
“The pear trees on the back hill are ripe. The children and I picked some the other day and made fresh juice. Please, Mr. Rosenberg, Ms. Woods, have a taste,” he said, his tone obsequious.
Hannah looked at the cloudy, murky liquid in the glass, and her fingers trembled. She took a deep breath and looked away.
Seeing that she wasn't drinking, Jason’s tone turned lazy and mocking. “This is all we have to offer at our humble orphanage. We can’t afford any fancy teas. If Ms. Green finds it beneath her, I can have someone go out and buy her something else.”
“Hannah!” Lionel’s voice was a low, sharp reprimand. “Don’t insult the children’s kindness.”
“Wow!” Sandra exclaimed after taking a large gulp. “Mr. Cooper, this pear juice is delicious! It’s so sweet. Before I leave, could I have a few pears to take home? I’d love to make some myself.”
“Of course, Ms. Woods! I’ve already had a bag prepared for you!”

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