Fabiola's baby was fussy and sleepy, rubbing his eyes and wailing. The piercing cries of the infant filled the entire living room, grating and deafening.
"I'm so sorry!" Winifred held her twins' hands and bowed deeply to the family. "I've caused you all so much trouble."
But before she could fully bend down, Leland's large hands caught her waist. He gently pulled her upright, making her stand tall.
"You and the kids are the victims here. You have absolutely nothing to apologize for." He cast a sharp glance toward Wyatt. "Fabiola's behavior during this incident was completely erratic. This needs to be looked into."
Wyatt nodded grimly. "I'll find some time to look into who she's been interacting with lately to see who's influencing her. She's simple-minded. She couldn't have come up with a scheme this vicious on her own."
Leland held Wyatt's gaze with a rare, deadly seriousness.
Understanding the unspoken warning, Wyatt turned back to Winifred. "Winifred, I am truly sorry. Once again, I apologize to you and Seth on Fabiola's behalf." He then looked down at the little boy. "Seth, your aunt did a bad thing, and as your uncle, I'm apologizing for her."
Seth gave a polite little bow in response.
Winifred felt incredibly awkward. "Wyatt, thank you..."
Leland gently pressed a finger to her lips. "Enough. You and the kids were the ones bullied. Hearing you constantly thank everyone just makes my heart ache."
The older relatives in the room couldn't help but smile at his protectiveness. Sylvia looked especially pleased.
"You really are a sweet girl, taking grievances without making a scene. You just make people want to dote on you."
Winifred beamed, genuinely happy. "You're so good to me, Sylvia."
"Of course I am! The very first time I met you, Dr. Shultz, I was absolutely in awe of you." The elderly woman waved them over. "Come, come! All of you, let me give you a hug."
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