Chapter 66

• Nathalie understood logically she hadn't tried to harm her mother; she'd been a newborn, after all. Her parents never told her the story; she overheard it from her aunt accidentally when she was 12. Since then, she'd refused to acknowledge her birthday. Her parents reassured her time and again it wasn't her fault and that they cherished her presence in their lives, insisting they wouldn't change a thing. Despite their reassurances, she couldn't shake off her feelings. Former boyfriends had attempted to help her overcome her reluctance with surprise parties or lavish gifts, but nothing ever seemed to work.
• Ethan's embrace didn't alter her feelings, but it was reassuring to be held. She preferred this silent support over any comforting words.
• "I'm dropping Rosie off at Elise's after school this Wednesday," Ethan said softly, pulling back slightly to gaze into her eyes. "And I plan to spend every single minute with you once you get back from work."