Parker shook his head, but he was smiling as he followed them into the house. Stephen was the more physically affectionate of his parents, and knowing Talia’s situation would have put all his nurturing instincts on high alert. Parker just hoped it wasn’t too overwhelming for Talia.

“You can call me Stephen,” his dad was saying as he led Talia into the large kitchen and got her situated on a stool at the breakfast bar. “Anthony will be out in a moment. He’s just on a business call. Now, what can I get you? Tea? Coffee? Cold water? Gin?”

“Da,” Parker admonished, but Talia was grinning.

“As much as I...