I helped them settle in, showing them the soft blankets and the toys we kept for when our cousins visited.

They lay down in the large bed together, refusing to be separated.

I turned off the main light, leaving only the small lamp on the nightstand casting a warm glow.

I walked back down to the study, where Ryker was standing by the fireplace, a glass of scotch in his hand.

“They are asleep,” I said, leaning against the doorframe.

“For now,” Ryker said, staring into the flames.

“But this is just the beginning. Marissa isn’t going to let them go easily.”

“Why would she abandon them just to fight for them?” I asked.

“The estate,” Ryker said. “Arthur’s will must have a clause. She needs custody to access the trust.”

Suddenly, the heavy oak doors of the study opened.

Marco walked in, holding a fresh stack of printed legal documents.

His face was grim.

“Mr. Steel, we have a major problem,” Marco said.

“What is it?” Ryker asked, setting his glass down on the mantelpiece.

“Marissa’s lawyers just filed an emergency motion in the county court,” Marco said.