"Yeah? I went to boarding school, too, but the room we shared was pretty big. It was all stuck-up rich kids. As opposed to a scruffy rich kid that grew up spending his summers at his grandad's ranch and knew what work meant," Jack chuckled. "I still got into my share of trouble."
Sally gave Daizi a sympathetic smile even if she couldn't see it. "I'm sorry I wasn't there for you more during that time. If you need to talk... if you need a cup of tea... please, call me. Or text." She squeezed Daizi's arm and sat back. "As for perfect babies, I think the only more perfect one I've ever seen was my own!" She laughed, teasing Daizi gently.
~~
"Alec doesn't want to go through with it, and we thought you'd hate the idea," Xander said bluntly.
Ciara frowned, setting down her cup. "Why in the world would you think I would hate the idea?"
"Because we'd be turning our backs on our family," Alec said meekly.
"Good gracious, child. I would say your family turned their backs on you long ago. No one could have a leg to stand on if they wished to deny you joining a new family," Ciara said stoutly. "That includes myself. Besides, I think you have seen by now that the true spirit of 'family' transcends any boundaries we would like to place on it. Look at your foster parents, their child, how they are with you, your so-called 'uncle,' and how they accepted me. If you wish to be adopted, if they wish to adopt you, I would certainly not stand in your way."
Alec stared at her owlishly. "But... what about... if other family members want to find us? And our Mum?"
"Tara would want you to be happy, whatever your choice," Ciara said stoutly. "As for finding you, if there is a will, there is a way. It is harder to hide than most people would be comfortable with. And the name? You can keep it, if you like, even with an adoption, but if your family wishes to find you, they will find a way."
"Huh," Alec said thoughtfully, playing with his fork.
"Good," Ciara said, glad that was settled.