Chapter 133

Dominick watched Paisley, the nanny, and Serena disappear into the elevator. Grayson’s urgent cry jolted him back to Marissa. He knelt, his voice soft. "How are you?"

Marissa shook her head, burying her face in his chest. "Dom, it's my fault."

"Nonsense," he said, gently helping her sit. "You were trying to help me. Don't be foolish."

Marissa nodded, a repentant puppy. She stroked Grayson’s cheek. "I feel so sorry for him. He longs for a mother."

Grayson’s eyes were red-rimmed, tears held back by stubborn pride. Marissa coaxed, "Come here, good boy."

He flew into her arms, the tears finally spilling. "Don't cry," she whispered, her own eyes glistening. "She doesn't want you, but I do. From now on, I'll be your mother." Dominick watched, a pang in his heart. Paisley, he thought, why are you so cruel?

Later, in the car, Serena nestled in Maria’s arms, still shaken from the earlier scare. Maria patted her back soothingly. "Paisley," she said, "how much longer in Harrowfell?" She couldn't bear another day here.

Paisley sighed. "A few months, at least." Her TV project with Gary hadn't started filming yet, and she had other commitments. "Maria, take Serena back to Brightmoor if you like," she offered.

Serena protested immediately. "No! I don't want to leave Mommy Maria!" She clung to Maria, shaking her head vehemently.

Maria couldn't leave her little darling unhappy. "Okay, we won't leave you."

"Then you can't leave either! I can't be without you!" Serena insisted, her eyes shining with sincerity.

Maria’s heart melted. "Okay, I can't be without you either." How could I leave her? she thought. She's been my precious baby since day one.

Serena smiled, snuggling closer. As Maria and Serena chatted and laughed, Paisley fell silent behind the wheel. Her collaboration with Gary, once exciting, now felt like a burden. Brittany was still cast as the lead, and Gary’s efforts to change that had failed. Paisley gripped the steering wheel. This project was her passion, and she wouldn't let Brittany ruin it. My family, she thought, comes first.