Preston shook his head. “This is not an obligation. It is clarity. I never realized how important you were until tonight. I am offering this because I want to, not because I feel forced to.”
The children nodded vigorously, which made Annalise laugh softly even through her tears. The sound broke the stiffness in the room.
For the first time, Preston allowed himself to really breathe. He led them toward the kitchen, where the lights still worked. The chef, Riley Hanford, finally emerged, clearly startled by the situation. She prepared warm milk for the twins while Preston held them on his lap. Annalise sat nearby, still trembling but no longer alone in her fear.
The mansion gradually filled with activity as security members and police officers arrived. Preston remained with his children, gripping them as if they might vanish if he loosened his hold. He watched them yawn and rest their heads against him. He watched Annalise watch them with a gentle vigilance.