"You're an adult, Evelyn. Make your own decisions." Genevieve consoled
"But if you find you can't carry this alone, you know where I am.""
That night, Evelyn had slept with Clara in her arms. The little girl had been relentless, asking question after question about her "Daddy." Evelyn had described him carefully. His strength, his sharp intellect, his commanding presence, painting a picture for her daughter that matched the man currently ruling the Thorn Empire. It took nearly forty minutes longer than usual for Clara to drift off, her small heart full of new dreams about the father she had never met.
The next morning, Evelyn woke to a soft "Mama" from the bed. She kissed Clara's cheek, her heart melting at the sight of her daughter's messy curls, and began the routine of dressing her and Lucas for the day. Once the twins were safe with her father, who was handling the school run for the week, Evelyn headed to the office.
