23
In the raftered reception area by the front entrance, a small group of people had gathered. She spotted Kai and Nicole, Birdie in her wheelchair, Griffin and Serena, and Lyle, who turned to her with eyes filled with concern.
And behind him…Beth. Her parka dripped melted snow onto the worn floorboards of the foyer. She cradled Tigger in her arms.
Isabelle closed her eyes, going lightheaded for a second. Beth was back. And she was taking Tigger. Of course she was, because Tigger was her baby. Hers, not Isabelle’s.
When she opened her eyes, Lyle was right in front of her, his hands gripping her upper arms, keeping her upright. “Beth sorted everything out with the police. They dropped the charges, and she came back for Tigger.”
She pushed him away and hurried past him, toward Beth. “Be
