Busted

Vanessa

   I walked into the house with Emily in my arms, bringing her to the girl’s room at the end of the second floor. Putting her down on the bed, I kissed her forehead while she smiled with her eyes closed.

   “I love you, Mommy,” she said in her sleep, bringing a smile to my face. But I didn’t want to get my hopes high. She could be referring to her biological mother, even if I had accepted to be like one for her.

   Candice was already sleeping. The entire day took a toll on her, and she needed that rest. While they caught up on some snooze, I put a sweater on, walking outside, seeing Clay looking at the horses. 

   I noticed his shoulders were slumped, as if he was giving up, but I a