Jennifer was a gynecologist; Cheryl was her future sister-in-law. Teresa couldn't believe Jennifer would let pride outweigh someone's life.

"Whatever," Teresa sighed. If Jennifer wouldn't reveal Cheryl's pregnancy, Teresa wouldn't interfere. From now on, the Lynn family's affairs were none of her business—the very reason she'd returned to Nareigh. Being back, she couldn't afford to be soft-hearted. For peace, she needed to emulate her sister Hannah's toughness. She'd harden her heart to those outside her immediate circle.

After dinner, Teresa posted on Facebook, "It always feels better back home," along with a photo of two glasses clinking. Benny liked her post and commented, "Hey, you're finally back!" Teresa replied, "Yup." Benny pressed, "When did you get back? Where is this—are you at Grove Bistro? Are you with Miriam? You two didn't even invite me!" Teresa responded, "Next meal's on me."

After dinner, she took Michael home. "Wow, Mom, the sheets are still the same as before!" Michael flopped onto his bed, burying his face in the pillow. Teresa helped him remove his little white socks, smiling. "Go take a shower, and then get some good sleep, okay? Did you even shower at Miriam's?"

"Edward gave me a bath," Michael wrinkled his nose. "But he's terrible at games—nowhere near as good as me! He even said I could get into Querencia University without breaking a sweat." The little guy looked up, puzzled. "What's Querencia University? And why do I have to go there?"

Teresa paused, remembering someone who'd attended Querencia University. She wondered if he was back in Nareigh. Immediately, though, she resolved to stop hesitating. Once she made a decision, she'd stick to it. "It's a school in Jarisburg—remember when we went there? When you're older, I'll take you to see it."

"Mom, what about Mr. Lime?" Michael tugged at Teresa's hand. "I didn't see him when I got back." Teresa said, "He's probably still busy out of town. I don't know. Let's not talk about him, okay?"

The next morning, Teresa was back at the office—meetings, catching up on company business—leaving her back aching. She knew the pregnancy was the cause, but her team thought she had a new boyfriend. They kept giving her knowing, teasing looks. Teresa noticed, speechless. "I'm not—"

"Ms. Johnston, you're so gorgeous. It's no surprise you've got a man," someone joked.

"Come on, this is ridiculous. Where would I even find a boyfriend? Who would I be dating?" Teresa wondered.

"Everyone at the company says you've been gone so long because you were off falling in love," another chimed in.

"Yeah, Ms. Johnston, which guy swept you off your feet? Spill! We're all great at keeping secrets," someone else teased.

The meeting devolved into gossip. Teresa cleared her throat, adopting her boss persona. "Isn't the product launch enough to keep you all busy? You still have time to gossip about my love life?"

Someone smirked. "We can multitask—work and gossip! So, is it Mr. Lynn from Horizonlead Group?"

"I heard from a friend at Horizonlead Group that Mr. Lynn isn't around Nareigh much either," another added.

Seeing Teresa's darkening expression, everyone fell silent.