Lyndon chimed in, âCongratulations on finding your daughter!â
The Moreno couple beamed with delight.
Brian nodded in agreement, jesting, âMr.
and Mrs.
Moreno, the Lordâs blessings are upon you.
â
This prompted Gail to look at Brian, querying, âWhat did you call us, Brian?â
âAnd Brian, will you continue to address us as Mr.
and Mrs.
Moreno?
Perhaps thereâs a better way?â Brendan suggested.
With raised eyebrows, Brian ventured, âDad and mom?â
The new title didnât come naturally, having called them Mr.
and Mrs.
Moreno for so long.
As Gail embraced Rosalynn, she warned, âBrian, treat Rosa well, or face consequences.
â
Brian assured, âOf course.
â
Brendan raised a concern, âBrian, rumors say you and Rosa have quarreled, contemplating divorce?â
Brendanâs stern gaze swept over Brian, his expression protective.
Brian quickly assured, âNo such thing.
Weâre all good.
Right, honey?â
Rosalynnâs lips held a persistent smile.
She chose silence, pleased by the support of her family.
âHoney!â
Brian, noticing her silent smile, called out once more, a flicker of anxiety passing through his deep eyes.
Did he fear her familyâs blame?
Rosalynn affirmed with a smile, âYes, Dad, Mom, weâre doing well.
No need for concern.
â
Now supported by her own family, she mused that perhaps he would think twice before disregarding her again.
Gailâs thoughts turned to Noemi, and she paused, torn.
But the dayâs joy of reunion quelled her words.
âBeal, please direct the kitchenâ¦â
She called out instinctively, catching herself mid-sentence.