‘But you never told him, did you?’ Jaclyn shook her head. ‘He couldn’t give me a 100%. Why would he be able to give that to a child?’ Jaclyn sat down on a chair. ‘I don’t want to ruin his career. It’s his dream.’ ‘So is having a family.’ ‘But he can’t have both.’ ‘You are denying him his child.’ ‘He doesn’t know so I’m not denying anything.’ Nik looked at the sleeping child. ‘May I hold him, her?’ ‘Her name is Gwendolyn. I named her after my grandmother.’ Jaclyn carefully lifted the baby out of the crib and gave her to Nik. ‘You really shouldn’t take her to Bryan. He would want a baby the very next moment.’ Jaclyn started laughing. ‘Typical Bryan.’ The little girl stirred in Nik’s arms and opened her eyes. She had the same eyes as her father. ‘She is beautiful. Did everything go ok with the birth and so.’ Jaclyn nodded. ‘I had a terrific friend. She helped me through it all.’ Nik handed the child back to Jaclyn. ‘We are having a welcome home dinner over at Ronan’s tomorrow. Will you be there too?’ Jaclyn wanted to say no but Nik had a pleading look in her eyes. ‘Not just for me. But I know George would love to see you and Yvonne and…’ Jaclyn raised her hand to stop Nik’s rambling. ‘Tell me what time and I’ll see if I can get a sitter, ok?’ Nik squealed and hugged Jaclyn. ‘You won’t be sorry. I promise.’ Jaclyn smiled. She wouldn’t have to talk to Shane. She could ignore him all night. ‘I think it will be nice catching up with all the girls.’

Her stomach was doing back flips by the time Jaclyn arrived at the Keating residence. She could hear people laugh and talk happily. She could go back now she had the chance. The front door opened. ‘Jac!’ Mark scooped her up in a big hug. ‘God, where have you been woman?’ Jaclyn had to smile. ‘I’m a working woman now.’ Mark pulled her inside. ‘Look who I found on the front steps.’ The room turned silent as they all stared at her. Yvonne and Nik released a sigh of relief. Bryan and Kian instantly jumped up and hugged her. ‘It’s great to see you again.’ Jaclyn got tears in her eyes. She hadn’t realized she had missed them all so much. ‘It’s great to be here.’ Nick pushed Bryan and Kian away. ‘Let me hug my favorite girl.’ Nick wrapped his arms tightly around her. ‘I missed you.’ Jaclyn closed her eyes. ‘I missed you too.’ She choked. Nick released her and looked at her. ‘Those better be happy tears.’ Jaclyn smiled. ‘Only happy tears.’ He kissed her on the cheek. Ronan gave her a quick hug and so did Yvonne. Jaclyn scanned the room but didn’t see Shane. She was just about to ask where he was when Shane ran into the room. ‘Sorry I’m late. Kelsey couldn’t find a proper dress.’ He wanted to say more but his gaze fell on Jaclyn. He opened his mouth but nothing came out. ‘Hello Shane.’ ‘Hi.’ He stuttered. Jaclyn felt his uneasiness. ‘Maybe it’s best if I leave again. It was great to see you all again.’ ‘Don’t you dare leave.’ A young woman showed up behind Shane. ‘George!’ Jaclyn ran to her friend to hug her. Instantly the girls started chatting. Shane stepped aside and let his new girlfriend in.