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Rosa's Nursery Offensive

Author: Reid
last update publish date: 2026-08-16 03:35:40

JAMESON

I heard the commotion before I saw it—hammering, footsteps, Rosa's voice carrying down the east hallway like she owned the place.

"No, no, the crib goes against that wall. Better morning light."

Cat froze beside me in the foyer, her hand tightening on my arm.

"Tell me that's not what I think it is."

It absolutely was.

We rounded the corner to find Rosa directing two contractors, a decorator

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