ACTUAL FACTS

Quite the contrary. Marigold was a sweet, energetic youngster who kept Elena on her toes. But then there was Atlas, who was there all day while she cared for his kin, stuffing himself inside his office where he kept the door shut like a hibernating grizzly.

He would then emerge during meal hours, scarfing down lazy meals until Elena insisted they have dinner together. It was vital for Marigold to know her father rather than just some woman who took over the spot of both parents.

His sense of humor made her heart leap. Elena was certainly quick to giggle, but Atlas had such a way with his expressions and delivery that tickled her funny bone. He spoke so dryly, his face deadpan as if he had been practicing comedy for years.

During an evening when the air was crisp, they all sat at the dinner table talking about Elena’s time at college and, inevitably, about the strange position Alas had at this supposed Hendrick. She thought it was some kind of gentlemen’s club that he was pulling her l