Avery leads the bodyguards to Lucky's parlor in the North Wing, and the men exchange nervous glances outside the door. Lucky howls and claws at the door from the inside. When Avery opens the door, Lucky leaps onto his hind-legs and throws himself at her, he licks the side of her face.
"Down Lucky," she commands, trying to push him away.
He whines but obeys. She strokes his fluffy head and smiles when he licks her hand. Sarah rushes across the room and wraps Avery in a warm hug.
"Welcome home," Sarah says.
Avery hugs her back. Though the Howel mansion feels like a prison, this small parlor is the closest thing to a home she's ever known—both Sarah and Lucky seem genuinely happy to see her again. Lucky rubs his body against her legs, and his tail wags so fast his entire body shakes. Avery stumbles slightly.
"Lucky, no," Sarah scolds. "She's pregnant now. You have to protect her and the baby."
