Chapter 116

“Have you thought about what you’re going to say at the christening tomorrow?” Allena asked, trying to keep the conversation neutral. “Tess did ask us both to say a few words.”

He nodded. “It’s quite the responsibility. My late wife was an atheist, so we never got Jayden or Cassie baptized. I figured they could get it done when they’re older if they wished to.”

“I never knew that about her,” Allena mused, then decided to dip her toe in a bit further. “You know, you don’t talk about her a lot.”

Justin shrugged. “It’s a bit of a double-edged sword, I suppose. If I say too much, it can upset the kids. If I don’t say enough, well, that can upset them, too. Since Cassie has no memory of her, it’s difficult for her to understand that Jayne is her mother. The truth is, the only mom my daughter has ever had, Allena, is you.”

In her heart, Allena knew his words were true. “I never planned on loving them so much,” she admitted.

He nodded. “I know. I guess, after her death, I never planned that