Chapter 38

A Bittersweet Reunion:

As Alice's due date approached, the great manor was a hive of activity, with the staff working frantically to ensure that every detail was precisely addressed. Arnold, his generally stern manner softened by the prospect of becoming a parent, leaned over his wife like a protective guardian, his gaze filled with affection Alice had never seen before. Despite their jubilant preparations, a shadow began to develop, threatening to cast a pall over the upcoming birth of their twins. Sophia, Alice's estranged sister, who had caused so much trouble in the past, reappeared, her presence piercing the heart. Alice had not seen Sophia since the day she was abruptly locked away, her twisted plots uncovered, and her family's favor rescinded. Alice felt a rush of contradictory feelings as she stood in front of the huge manor's imposing gates, her once-proud posture broken. "Sophia," she said, her voice full of incredulity and trepidation. "What are you doing here?" Her sister'