Chapter 452

• "The adoption gives the lawyers something to build their new identities from. All we have is the police statement and, as of tonight, travel papers from the U.S. embassy so they can come home with us tomorrow," Ben explained. Karen and Penny shrieked with excitement and hugged each other. Karen turned to hug Megan and Penny squeezed Daniel to her chest. The boy blushed as he tried to hide the enormous smile struggling to escape.
• Daniel sat up straight and looked at the group. "OK, it's my turn. Number three was Penny's hug just now." Laughter erupted and Penny kissed his temple as a reward. The blush continued. "Number two was the day Ben and I hung out at the pool." Gabriella's eyes teared up with joy as she beamed at her son. "Number one was playing in the water today but there really were so many awesome things about this holiday!"
• Miriam looked down the table and smiled at her mother. "I loved shopping in Nice with the ladies. I had so much fun with the actors in Avignon." She looked at Ben. "Playing in the water today was best of all!"