Chapter 40

Adeline’s POV

Vincent’s sudden change unsettled me. One moment he was nonchalant and wanted nothing to do with me, the next he was suggesting a picnic in the forest, like an ordinary father with his children.

It confused me, to some extent It even bothered me. But it also broke open a part of me I’d been guarding too tightly—because lately, the boys’ faces had been glowing with excitement.

My chest tightened. I should have said no. I should have reminded myself who he was and what he had done. But then Caleb tugged at my arm and whispered, “Please, Mummy,” and Elijah didn’t argue against it. They wanted this.

Eve stirred in my chest, her voice quieter than usual. “They are children, Adeline. Let them have joy while they can but don't lose focus.”

I let out a shaky breath. “All right,” I said.

The joy that exploded from the three of them was a physical force. Caleb whooped, pumping his small fist in the air. Elijah’s serious face broke into a rare, genuine smile that lit up his eyes. M