Chapter 63

At that, Alice’s eyes flew wide open. Did Edward seriously just call her by her real name? Don’t tell her Martha Hawthorne didn’t even know her own nephew’s wife's name? If things didn’t line up… wouldn’t they be exposed? Martha’s gaze subtly flicked to their clasped hands, and a faint smile deepened at the corners of her mouth. She reached out and gently patted Alice’s other hand. “Alice, I hope you won’t mind. Edward’s been abroad for a while, and with my health not being the best, it was hard for me to get around. I didn’t want to make you come over alone and startle you, so I’ve been putting off meeting you. I’m really glad we finally got to sit down today.” So she really didn’t know Edward’s wife’s name. Alice exhaled silently in relief. “No need to apologize, Aunt Martha. I should’ve come visit you earlier, really. That’s what a junior in the family should do.” It was already dark outside. Only the garden lights lit the path, and the autumn breeze was getting cooler. Edward helpe