As they climbed the porch steps, Lilian noticed Mrs. Patterson still watching from the window next door, and she was sure the lady's phone definitely in her hand by now.
The gossip mill was already churning. By dinnertime, the entire town would know that Margaret Carter's daughter had returned with three devastatingly handsome men.
When Lilian came inside, the familiar scent of pot roast hit her, mixed with the furniture polish and old books, exactly as she remembered.
The house looked the same too. The worn but comfortable furniture that Margaret refused to replace, the family photos in the walls, including several embarrassing shots of Lilian at various awkward ages, and a bookshelf stuffed with mystery novels and gardening guide.
Lilian watched the princes take in their surrounding with the attention that masked as casual interest. They were automatically finding the exits, windows, and potential threats.
"Your home is lovely," Adrian said. "It's very warm and welcoming."
