<Shina>

It had been several weeks since the twins had saved me from the madness that Leon had inflicted upon me. Things were finally beginning to feel like normal again as Spring was in full bloom around us. I had spent hours each day just sitting on the couch with Emily and Matthew curled up against my sides as we watched their favorite movies or read their favorite books together.

I had even begun reading a few of mine to them, trying to keep to the lighter stories when I could. But I couldn't keep the smile off my face when they told me they wanted to hear The Phantom of the Opera read to them. Even if I knew it was beyond their understanding right now, I managed to get them to agree with an edited for children version of the tale with the promise to read the actual story to them when they were older.

I had never felt closer to my children and I could only hope we would continue to bond with each other. I had a lot of time to make up for after all. I was just lucky they were willing to let me try.I smiled when I felt Matthew curl closer to my side as I flipped the page of the book we were reading.

He was such a Mommy's boy, and I loved every moment of it.

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<Elijah>

I loved that my family had become so close to each other. Shina spent more time mothering our children, their bond growing stronger. I just wish it hadn't been due to such a traumatic event. But never again. I would never let something like this happen again.

Quietly, I turned and left the house, making sure Anthony knew to keep a close watch on things here and keep in contact with the guards I had posted along the perimeter of the property. Nobody would ever be able to approach my family again without one of us knowing about it.

I climbed into the car that awaited me outside.It was time for another trip to the 'guest house'.

I'm sure Leon had healed enough by now for another visit.

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<The Twins>

"Mommy, will you take us to the garden today while Daddy is gone? We want to play outside with you!" We both pulled at her arms, getting her to stand up as she laughed happily. She had such a lovely laugh!

"Of course I will! What did you want to play this time?" Our eyes grew wide at the smile she gave us. It had been a while since she had smile such a big smile! Looking at each other, we gave a quick nod.

"We want to play Hide and Seek!" Grabbing Mommy by the hands, we both began pulling her outside, ready to begin playing games until Daddy would finally come home for dinner.

But until then, Mommy's attention would be all ours.