Vivian adjusted the bakery box in her hand.
“You know, Elena, I could come by whenever Daniel is working.”
“I know.”
“It would be easier if I did not have to wait for someone to answer.”
I looked at her purse.
“Are you asking for a key?”
“I am asking whether you really want me standing outside when you need me.”
“I can let you help without giving you a key.”
Her smile stayed in place.
“Why would you make a simple thing difficult?”
“Because it is my house.”
Vivian glanced toward the nursery again.
“Daniel’s house too.”
“Yes.”
“And the babies are Sterling children.”
“Yes.”
She lowered the bakery box.
“Then why should I need permission to come in?”
I did not answer immediately.
The question had arrived dressed as concern, but it was still a request for access.
“I will call you when we need you.”
Vivian picked
