A fire blazed merrily in the hearth, warming the room and casting a yellow glow over everything. In the corner, Penny’s tree stood proudly, the ornaments catching the glow of the fire, making them sparkle with added zest. Beneath it were three badly wrapped gifts, Penny’s presents for the important people in her life.At their entrance, Millie bolted to her feet as quickly as her arthritis would allow, rousing Jack from his lazy slumber next to Penny. Millie’s face reflected the worry she’d been going through waiting for their return and news of the judge’s verdict.“Well?” she said, wringing her hands and glancing apprehensively from one to the other.Penny stopped arranging the pieces on the game board and got to her feet to stand beside Millie. Though she had no idea what was happening, her face plainly reflected the air of apprehension radiating from the adults.Before Tony answered Millie, he had to feel the substance of the little girl, to make sure he really hadn’t lost her.
