Chapter 124

"That was some shindig you had tonight," Charlotte said while hanging up her coat.

"Yes, it was worth all the work and extra effort, wasn't it?" Lauren asked her parents. She laid the baby in the bassinet in the living room and removed some of the extra layers of blankets. Cameron was wide-awake, his arms and legs flying every which way.

"You are so cute, baby boy. I'm going to change your diaper and get you ready for bed. Then mommy's going to get a hot shower."

"Goodnight, Lauren," her father called to her as she started up the stairs.

"'Night Mom and Dad. Thanks for all your help. See you in the morning." Lauren relaxed as she closed the door to the master bedroom and exhaled, safe at last. She'd felt exposed during the party among men, some she didn't recognize; afraid the next man she'd see would be Clint. Memories of him assaulting her consumed her. She sat on the edge of the bed, Cameron still in her arms.

She blew out a series of short breaths to gain control, her stomach