He said it gently to avoid upsetting Nicole.

Nicole responded, "Daddy, Joshua is supposed to be here. I asked Mommy, and Mommy agreed to have him painted here."

Did Gale also agree? Shawn's gaze turned to Gale.

"Yes. Shawn, I want to talk..." Gale replied.

"Both of you are being too fond of Joshua. But I believe this is a matter of principle. A family of three should remain a family of three, with no additional outsiders."

Gale was continually interrupted by him.

She could not finish her s