Twenty-Eight

Happiness and gaiety filled William’s home upon their return. The children ran into their father’s arms and greeted him with kisses, and then turned and rained the same affection on Mercedes. Her chest expanded with happiness.

For the rest of the day, she stayed by William’s side as he sat on the couch and played with the children. He touched her often with gentle caresses. Was this all a wonderful, beautiful dream?

But all dreams had to end, and William’s problems made her heart sick. When she first decided to play her sister’s role, she was out to prove him unlawful. Yet now th