Margaret had definitely not rolled out the welcome mat for her.

The pictures of Sean overwhelmed her with feelings of resentment and anger. Several stood grouped in old silver antique frames on each dresser and night table. They showed him as a boy up until his college graduation.

Clearly his life before she had stolen him away.

“Set the suitcases down anywhere. I’ll go through the bathroom and check out the boys’ room before I move their stuff in there.” Dust bunnies skittered across the floor as she walked toward the Jack and Jill bathroom.

Concern filled Luke’s eyes. “Maybe Margaret meant the rooms on the other side of the staircase?”

No, she didn’t. “Thank you for bringing up the bags. I appreciate it, but you don’t have to stick around.” And witness my embarrassment. “I’ll be just fine.”

“Let’s see the other room first. Margaret’s arthritis has been getting worse, but I can’t believe she’d allow company without getting the rooms ready.”

Sarah knew better and continued on through the bathroom and found two twin beds in a forest-green room. A nightstand stood between the two beds with a crystal lamp, pictures of Sean, and the same gorgeous wood floors that were throughout the house. An antique dresser and chest of drawers lined the walls around the room and above the dresser was an oil painting of a little boy playing with a dog in a field. Jack would be happy to find the television and DVD player with the small love seat in front just waiting for him to plop down and enjoy. She could hook up one of her computers to it so they could watch Netflix on the TV screen.

Each bed had a new-looking blanket. A toy chest in the corner held several wrapped packages waiting to be opened.

Unlike her room and the bathroom, this room had been cleaned and made ready for two little boys. “It’s perfect. They’ll love it.”

Luke hooked his thumbs in his jeans pockets. “She’s certainly made sure to let you know who’s welcome and who isn’t. Aren’t you going to say anything about your room?” Luke seemed to be waiting for her to throw a tantrum like a spoiled child who required everyone to jump at her every whim.

That wasn’t her, never had been, no matter what Margaret’s opinion.

Or Luke’s, for that matter.

And she wouldn’t give him something to use against her if Margaret pushed forward and took her to court.

Margaret must have told him a convincing tale about who she thought Sarah was. But she wasn’t about to dignify Margaret’s lack of hospitality with the least bit of outward frustration.

What did Sarah expect? Margaret hated her. She wasn’t welcome here. Not surprising, but it still hurt.

Luke stared at her, confusion in his eyes, waiting for her to say something.

“I don’t mind dusting and making the bed. I’ve got to get the bathroom ready for the boys’ bath tonight. Thanks for your help. Please excuse me.”