Time moved quickly—slipping through the fingers like water—and for Riley and his family, the years passed in the same effortless way.
Twenty years went by almost without notice, carried away by peaceful days, lively nights, and a home filled with warmth.
In that time, every one of Riley's wives had given birth to exactly one child.
One child each—perfectly balanced, perfectly spaced, perfectly harmonious.
None of the women wished to break that unspoken pattern, and Riley, amused and easygoing as always where his family was concerned, simply accepted it.
Their home became filled with bright voices, little feet pattering through the halls, and the distinct personalities of each child blooming beautifully.
Some were calm and scholarly, others mischievous and reckless, still others fiercely competitive or naturally gifted.
Yet all of them carried traces of their parents' brilliance—sharp minds, strong cores, and eyes that held both pride and potential.
