Carol always knew she’d have to go through with an arranged marriage eventually, but after chasing him for so many years, she just wanted some closure. Even if she could only have him for one night, she’d have no regrets.
Cian’s voice turned serious. “Carol just got carried away. But honestly, her mistake actually gave you and Felicia a chance, didn’t it?”
Max’s eyes stayed cold as he stared at Henry.
Henry rushed to reassure him. “I promise, nothing like that will ever happen again. She’ll be engaged before the end of the year.”
Cian nodded. “Keep her from being so impulsive next time. Dannie’s younger and still more mature. Maybe Carol could learn a thing or two from her.”
Henry let out a helpless sigh. “It’s true, she’s not as steady as Dannie.”
Wyatt shot him a look. “Well, if that’s settled, why don’t you come join us?”
Max said, “I’ll pass.”
Wyatt grinned. “My luck’s been terrible today, so I’ll play for you. Any wins or losses are on your tab.”
“Fine.”
Wyatt got up, giving up his seat.
Felicia didn’t go looking for Anne right away. She sat down on a bench by the pool, stretching one leg out, her face tipped up toward the endless blue sky. Warm sunlight soaked into her skin, making her feel relaxed and peaceful.
She sat there for a while, lost in thought.
Eventually, she lowered her head, let out a long breath, and felt herself calm down. When she finally stood up to leave, she saw Wyatt coming her way.
Wyatt smiled at her.
“Mr. Gilbert,” she greeted.
“Felicia,” he said, “what are you doing here all alone?”
She smiled back. “Just wanted some time to myself.”
“Are you on break now?”
“Yeah, I am.”
“Good, you can finally relax a little. Anne’s birthday is coming up soon, right?”
Felicia nodded.
“This is the first time you’ll get to spend her birthday with her. She must be really happy.”
Felicia’s lips curved in a gentle smile as she nodded again.
They chatted for a bit, then headed off together to find Anne and Mandy.
Kate walked over, following Felicia’s gaze. “He really dotes on Anne, doesn’t he?”
Darin was close to Max, so it made sense he’d look out for Anne. But watching him now, it was obvious his feelings went way beyond just responsibility.
Felicia couldn’t quite explain how she felt.
Darin must have sensed her eyes on him. He looked up and spotted Felicia standing at the entrance.
Even from across the greenhouse, Felicia could feel the warmth in his gaze.
Darin leaned down and whispered something to Anne.
Anne turned around and spotted her mom. “Mommy!” she called out.
Anne tried to hurry over, but the strawberry patch was tricky to walk through. Darin took her hand, making sure she didn’t trip.
Anne held up her basket with both hands. “Mommy, you have to try one!”
Felicia picked out a strawberry and took a bite. It was perfectly sweet and fresh.
The strawberries here were all natural and safe to eat right off the vine.
“It’s very sweet,” she said.

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