Then one of the twins opened her eyes.
She looked up—and saw him.
Her hands dropped instantly. Her face went pale.
“Má…” she whispered, tugging at Maria’s sleeve.
Maria’s eyes flew open. She turned, and when she saw him standing there, her entire body stiffened.
“Oh—sir,” she stammered, scrambling to her feet. “I—I’m so sorry. I didn’t hear you come in. I know this looks—”
She stopped abruptly, lowering her gaze.
“I’ll clean this up right now,” she said quickly, reaching for the plates. “I shouldn’t have—please, I can explain—”
“Stop,” Mr. Whitaker said.
The word came out sharper than he intended.
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