Chapter 41

They came into the laundry room a few moments later, and Chan began putting her clothes in. She was hoping Sam would leave her to do whatever he was going to do, but he didn’t. He even helped her put in the washing powder and then start the machine. Of course, she didn’t need help with any of that, but it was very considerate of him.

They headed back out together and were on the landing of the second floor when Lilly came running out her bedroom door.

“Daddy!” she greeted him with delight.

Sam said, “Good morning, sweetheart. What do you want for breakfast today?”

“Pancakes!” Lilly said excitedly. “Chan wants to have pancakes, too, right?”

Chan chuckled. “Why not?”

Sam put Lilly back down and said, “Then you two darlings go and wait downstairs. I’ll just quickly clean myself up.”

“Okay,” Lilly said, taking Chan’s hand.

Once again, Chan was delighted he referred to her as one of his darlings. She smiled as Lilly led her down the stairs.

The two didn’t have to wait long. There must be a