Lily held Galen carefully, as if he were the most precious thing in the world. She tightened her embrace, nudging her cheek against his to feel his warmth. Finally, she felt truly at home. A choked sob escaped her as she whispered, "I miss you so much." She had been preoccupied, but her children were always on her mind.

"I miss you too, Mommy!" Galen snuggled closer, returning her embrace.

Lily fought back tears, asking, "Have you been a good boy?"

"Yup!" Galen grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "We all have."

His words reminded her of the twins. Dominic and Austin smiled, each carrying a twin towards her.

Lily hurried over, still holding Galen. "Let me look at them!"

Though the twins were fast asleep, their even breathing and rosy cheeks spoke of their well-being. She lovingly caressed each twin's cheek.

"They have wonderful appetites and never throw tantrums," Austin praised. "Such good babies."

"Hey, I disagree. The younger one's a crybaby!" Dominic shook his head. "I almost went deaf from all the crying!"

Lily chuckled, nodding. "She is, isn't she?" She knew everyone adored her daughter.

Despite his complaints, Dominic seemed reluctant to relinquish the baby. Austin, holding the older twin, kept craning his neck to look at the younger one. He defended her, "Crying that loud means she's healthy, right?"

"You're right!" Dominic nodded, smiling at the baby. "They have their mom's eyes, don't they?"

"No, more like their dad's," Austin countered. "Their noses, too."

"Hey, do you have to disagree with everything I say?" Dominic playfully tried to kick him.

Dodging the kick, Austin giggled. "Just stating facts, okay?"

Lily laughed at their playful banter. Galen wrapped his arms around her neck and whispered, "We look like Mom." His voice was soft, but both Lily and Alexander heard him.