Gilbert and Audrey arrived late in the morning, the sun already high and warm over the estate. The twins were in the playroom, engaged in what Lily had described as a "complete reorganization and deep cleaning" of the space. This meant, in practice, that every toy had been removed from its spot and spread across the floor, and Lily was now directing Leo in the careful work of putting everything back in a new, improved order.
"Everything has to be ready for the baby," Lily had explained at breakfast. "The playroom needs to be safe. No small toys on the floor where the baby could put them in his mouth. No sharp corners. We're making it baby-proof."
"The baby won't be in the playroom for a while," Arianne had pointed out. "He won't be able to crawl for several months."
"Preparation is important. You can't wait until the last minute. That's what Aunt Estella says."
