The girls were all sitting around the outdoor table setting when I came down from my private little sanctuary. Plates were laid out and I found an empty seat beside Emily with my cutlery and plate already piled high with food.

"Hey everyone," I said with a small wave as I approached the table.

The girls gave their own greetings, ranging from broad smiles, to a big hug from Emily as she rose from her chair to greet me. Amanda had a happy smile on her face as she saw the embrace between her sister and I, and I had a feeling she was happy to see her siblings getting...