She felt a mix of concern for Sheldon and astonishment that Lyndon was at her place.

She needed a moment to collect herself.

"Is he still there?"

Seeing Sheldon walking hand in hand with Lyndon towards Sheldon's room, Elma answered, "Yes, he is playing with Sheldon."

"Okay, I'm coming home now," Tilda said.

Ending the call, Tilda took a deep breath, made a quick apology to Rosalynn and the director, and drove home fast.

When she got back, the living room was silent and empty.

Slipping into her house shoes, Tilda was filled with a sense of unease and curiosity.

Tilda wondered if they were outside.

“Dad, is this how you do it?"

“That's right, you're doing great. Keep it up."

She heard this exchange coming from Sheldon's room.

Tilda's hand tensed, and she bit her lip lightly.

Why was Sheldon calling him dad again? And Lyndon responded as if it was the most natural thing.

She walked quickly to Sheldon's room and pushed the door open.

Inside, Lyndon was sitting at Sheldon's small desk, staring at a computer screen.

Sheldon was on his lap.

The two of them, one tall and one small, looked up at the noise.

Their deep, dark eyes looked so much alike.

Tilda's heart raced, her grip tightened as she tried to steady herself.