A few days later, Nathan stepped into Lilly’s warm little house, the scent of garlic and roasted herbs wrapping around him like an embrace. In the kitchen, Harry stood at the counter, sleeves rolled up, chopping vegetables while Lilly hovered nearby, laughing at something he’d said.

Nathan stopped. Her laughter hit him hard, leaving a heavy feeling inside. It reminded him of the time months ago when Lilly had cared for him like the mother he had always wished for.

Lilly spotted him and ...