Page 115 of Illicit Heir

"Sit down so ya can eat," Dominick offers, pointing to the chair.

I obey.

Annie fills a plate for me, then she grabs my hand. She says, "It's time to say grace."

Dominick holds his hand out, and I take it, feeling slightly uncomfortable since I didn't grow up religious.

Annie says softly, "Just close your eyes, dear. Say whatever ya want to the Lord."

I obey her as well.

She says, "Thank ya, Jesus, for bringing Lauren into our life. We appreciate this food and all the good things you've bestowed upon us. Amen."

"Amen," Dominick says.

"Amen," I say and open my eyes.

They both squeeze my hands, then release them. I wait, not sure what to do next.

Annie motions toward my plate. "Eat."

I don't hesitate. I'm starving. We eat in silence for a while and then I realize my manners. I've been chowing down the food, and nearly half my plate's gone. I look up and see Dominick's twinkling eyes staring at me. I wince. "Sorry."

He chuckles. "What are ya sorry for, lass? This is good food. I'm glad you're enjoying it."

"I am," I state, then take a long drink of water.

"Have another piece of bread," Annie orders, putting a buttered slice on my plate.

"Thank ya," I say. I take a bite, wanting to groan at how delicious it tastes. I finish chewing, swallow, take another sip of water, then ask, "So what time should I be awake tomorrow?"

She answers, "We normally get up around six in the morning. We have a couple guests checking in later tonight."

I glance at the clock on the wall. It says it's six thirty.

"Oh, do ya always have people check in late at night?"

She shakes her head. "Not always, but these people are coming from far away."

The hairs on my neck rise. What if it's Caleb and he knows where I'm at?

What if it's Devin?

There's a small twinge of hope at the last thought, but I squash it.

The O'Connors will take my baby.

"Are ya okay, Lauren?" Dominick asks.

"Oh, yea, sorry. I'm fine."

"Are ya sure? Ya looked a little scared for a moment there." He studies me closer.

I make a note to myself to start figuring out how to control my expressions. I smile at him. "No, not at all. I was just wondering where they're coming from?"

"Somewhere in Dublin."

Dublin. Oh God, maybe it is Caleb.

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