Sean grew up to be a lot like how he described his dad. Then he died young, too.

Three failed marriages and two children who turned out to be self-centered had left Margaret unfulfilled and unhappy.

Sarah couldn’t change the past. She couldn’t bring Sean back. But she could try to make this visit as pleasant as possible for her kids’ sake. So she vowed to be herself during this visit and not let Margaret get to her.

At least, she’d try.

She wound her way down several back roads and finally reached her mother-in-law’s magnificent tree-lined driveway. The leaves shown in beautiful golds and reds. Fall was Sarah’s favorite time of year. The white house with dark green shutters flanking large windows came into view. The huge porch wrapped around the first floor. French doors opened onto the second-story balcony, providing wonderful views and a quiet place to sit in the rocking chairs and relax.

As she drew closer, she noticed the whole place had a weathered and neglected feel. The paint was peeling, the gardens were overgrown, the lawns had gone to weed, and the drive needed to be re-graveled.

Margaret had always been particular about the appearance of her home.

Sarah almost thought she had the wrong place until she parked in the drive and noticed Margaret sitting on the porch with a visitor. The other person remained hidden in the shadows, but she couldn’t help but see Margaret’s frown.

She glanced in the rearview mirror. Sure enough, the boys had fallen asleep. She exited the car and waved. “Hello, Margaret.”

“You’re late. Where are the boys?” Margaret’s sharp, clipped words grated.

Not even a hello. “Asleep in back.” Sarah opened Jack’s door and woke him with a gentle rub on his chest.

“Mama, are we there yet?” Jack rubbed at his eyes.

“Yes, honey. Let’s go see Grandma.”

Sarah turned around and Jack climbed onto her back. Sarah went to the other passenger door, opened it, and gently woke Nick.

Nick opened his big green eyes, and as he did upon waking most days told her, “Daddy played with me while I slept.”

Sarah’s throat clogged, as it always did. She brushed her son’s golden hair away from his brow, gave him a smile, and said, “Daddy will come back and play when you go to sleep tonight. Wanna see Grandma?”

Nick nodded.

She set Jack on the ground beside her, then hooked her hands under Nick’s arms and lifted him from his seat and held him close.

Sarah walked toward Margaret with her getting-heavier-by-the-day load and Jack right beside her with his little arm wrapped around her leg. The guest stepped out of the shadows to the porch railing and leaned against the post, staring down at her. She wished he’d remained hidden. Tall, handsome, he conveyed strength and confidence in his worn boots, faded jeans, and chambray work shirt. He was made to draw a woman’s eye with that gorgeous face and wide shoulders, and she found herself staring for a moment before she caught herself and realized the unfamiliar sensation running through her was attraction.