Chapter 49

“Sophia, my love, it’s time to go in for lunch.” Maya shivered in the cold air as Sophia pouted at her.

“Just one more game, Maya. Please.”

Marshall grinned. “What game this time, Sophia?”

“Hide and seek!” Sophia clapped her hands delightedly as Maya smiled.

“Close your eyes and count to fifty,” Sophia demanded.

Marshall and Maya closed their eyes and began to count as Sophia laughed and ran off.

***

“Hello, Avery.”

Avery groaned inwardly and turned to face Hendrick. She had just entered the barn and was about to start shoveling out a stall when Hendrick’s voice had washed over her.

“Hello, Hendrick.”

Hendrick stepped closer. “How are you today?”

“Fine.”

“Not feeling sick after yesterday?”

“No,” she replied.

“Good.” He leaned against the wall of one of the stalls. “Tell me, Avery. Do you know—do you understand—just what a gift you have been blessed with? How valuable you are?”

Avery cupped her