CHAPTER 6
THE ADVERTISEMENT
Lillian returned to Montague Road the following Sunday. Perhaps it was her imagination but little Stephen appeared to be looking plumper. Patricia was no more tired than usual. The bruise and scratches on her face and neck had already faded. Perhaps the transition of caring for three children rather than two was negligible. Alfred had not yet returned nor bothered even to send a short telegram to reassure his wife of his whereabouts. By all accounts, life at the cottage seemed to be running more smoothly as a result.
Stephen gurgled and stared in wonder at Lillian’s face as she picked him up. He absorbed each of her features as he involuntarily poked his tongue in and out between rosebud lips. She laughed at his contortions and hoped when at last he was able
