Sandy was the picture of perfect manners, always thoughtful and considerate. She even got Pattie a golden locket, something most people wouldn''t even think of. Everyone else was focused on the Salstrom twins, the stars of the full moon celebration, and gifts for Pattie were hardly on anyone''s mind. Even Salma felt a bit guilty-she had gotten protective amulets for Emmie and Sam but hadn''t thought of anything for Pattie. She gave her grandkids silver bracelets but didn''t consider a gift for Pattie.
With a sweet smile, Sandy said, "Sis, please ept this. Here''s to a healthy and happy future for all three little ones." Tavon kept quiet, surprised by Sandy''s thoughtfulness. Katelyn chimed in with a grin, "Ana, just take it. It''s a blessing for the kids." "Thank you," Anastasia said, forcing a small smile as she epted the gift.
Katelyn then announced, "The guest room is ready. Father-inw, Sandy, you should both stay over." Anastasia wasn''t thrilled about Sandy staying, but with Katelyn making the offer in front of everyone, she had to go along. With the twins'' celebration tomorrow, Tavon and Sandy would leave soon enough. One night wouldn''t hurt.
Tavon was eager to stay, thanking Katelyn, "We''ll happily take you up on that, mother-inw." "No problem at all, we''re all family," Katelyn said warmly. "Father-inw, you can have the room you used before." Tavon, who had stayed there while recovering, was pleased. "That''s great, mother-inw. You''re always so thoughtful," he said.
Katelyn then turned to Sandy, "Sandy, you can stay in the room next to your dad''s." Sandy smiled and replied, "Whatever Aunt Katelyn thinks is best works for me." And with that, Katelyn arranged for both Sandy and Tavon to stay over.
Despite the tension between Salma and Ashley, they never showed it to Sandy. Sandy always greeted Salma politely, and Salma, following the unwritten rule of not snapping at someone who''s smiling, reciprocated, albeit reluctantly. As an elder, she couldn''t be less gracious than the younger generation.
Herman returned home to find out about the new houseguests and, knowing Anastasia''s difort with Sandy, approached Katelyn. "Mom, why are they staying here? There are plenty of hotels. Let Ana handle this next time," he said. Katelyn, confused, said, "Did I do something wrong? They''re Ana''s dad and sister. I thought it was right for them to stay here. Is Ana upset?"
"Ana and Sandy share a father but have aplicated family background. It''s not easily exined. From now on, let Ana handle things with the Morton family," Herman replied, feeling overwhelmed by the family drama since the twins arrived. Katelyn, a bit defensive, said, "Sorry, Herman. I didn''t think it through. Sandy''s gift was nice, and since Ana''s dad stayed here before, it seemed right to offer them both a ce. I couldn''t just host her dad and send her sister away." "Let''s just get through the celebration," Herman sighed, "and from now on, prioritize Anastasia''s wishes. This is her home too." Katelyn, understanding but still a bit put out, said, "I get it. I''ll step back."
Herman, too tired for further discussion, simply replied, "Whatever," and headed upstairs. He ran into Sandy, who greeted him with respect. He nodded curtly, his mind still on the family issues.
Upstairs, Anastasia was sorting outfits for the twins'' celebration when Herman joined her. "Help me pick out something for Emmie and Sam for tomorrow," she said. Pattie waved and smiled, calling for her dad''s attention. "Pattie," Herman said, ruffling her hair. "Why don''t you go find Ms. Liana for a bit? I need to talk to your mom." Pattie nodded and happily left the room.
Anastasia looked at Herman, curious. "What''s up?" she asked. "I heard about Sandy staying over," Herman said, sitting down. "Mom''s been a bit thoughtlesstely, but don''t let it bother you. You and your mom should just let it go." "You talked to your mom, didn''t you?" Anastasia asked.