Madra and Max were relaxing with the children before beginning their day. Max would soon be off to meet with the architect on his newest project. Madra and the girls were going to pick up Madra's sister, Glynis, at the airport. Madra was so excited about seeing her little sister again, although she wondered what could be so important that she left school to come visit. Glynis wasn't scheduled to visit for at least another six weeks yet, when she would be visiting for the holidays and the twins' birthday. "Are you sure you will be alright by yourself, dear," Max asked. "Of course, Max. We won't be alone, Sam will be with us, and besides, it will give Glynis and I a chance to spend some time together. I can't help but worry -- Glynis sounded a little anxious on the phone last night." Max knew that his girls would be in good hands. Sam, their chauffer and all-around handyman, was very reliable. "I'm sure it's nothing serious," said Max, "you know how young girls can be." With that he laughed, picked up the twins and kissed each one goodbye and then leaned down and kissed Madra goodbye. "Good luck today, Max," she said, "we'll see you later. Come on girls let's get ready to pick up Auntie Glynnie." With that the girls ran off giggling and chanting, "Auntie Glynnie....Auntie Glynnie..."

Sam was waiting with the car when Madra and the girls opened the front door. Thank God for him, Madra thought. Max was so thoughtful to get me a car and driver. Max knew that Madra had a fear of driving and never pushed the issue. He was happiest when he knew his girls were safe, and he trusted Sam. "Good morning, Sam" Madra said, the girls still giggling and happily skipping. "Good morning, Ms. Maxwell" Sam said. "I understand we're going to the airport to pick up your sister -- it will be good to see Ms. Glynis again." "Yes, Sam, I certainly am looking forward to it." she said. Madra got the girls all buckled into the back and climbed in next to them. While the girls played with their dolls, Madra lost herself in reverie. She truly loved her little sister and the thought of having her back again was very good! She hadn't seen her since last summer when she stayed with them. At that time, she had a crush on Max' brother, Trevor. Madra gave a little shiver. Oooh, that Trevor, she thought. Bad news - especially for my little sister! She was happy that Trevor never saw Glynnie in that way. And happier still when Trevor left for parts unknown. And, although she was sad that Glynnie left, she was happy that she was getting a good education. Glynnie had been in the south of France and seemed to enjoy it. Why wouldn't she thought Madra. It's a beautiful place and a great school. I wonder why she is leaving....

Madra and the girls were so exicted when they got to the airport. Madra couldn't wait to see her again, and the girls knew that their aunt would be bringing them lots of little presents. They loved seeing their auntie....she was so much fun! They approached the gate just as the passengers were disembarking. Madra saw Glynis immediately. She raised her hand and called, "Glynis!" Glynis spotted her and a huge smile immediately spread on her face. "Madra!" she cried. At once the two women were in each other's arms, hugging and laughing and talking all at once. "Oh, Glynnie, it's so good to see you," said Madra. "Not as good as it is to see you," replied Glynis. The girls were excited, too. They were tugging and pulling at Glynis' coat. Glynis scooped up one of the girls in her arms and Madra the other.

"Oh, it's so good to see you little tykes!" she said. "I have presents for each of you!" The girls could hardly contain their excitment at the prospect of seeing their aunt again and at getting presents! Madra eyed her little sister and noticed that she looked different...older, maybe.."Glynis, you look wonderful, but I just...." Madra started. "Oh, yes," replied Glynis, "I guess I have changed a little. I had a little 'work done' -- you know, just a little enhancements." "Oh, Glynnie, you don't need any enhancements - you're absolutely beautiful just the way you are," said Madra, hugging her sister and leading her to the car.

When they arrived at the baggage claim, they saw Sam waiting for them. Madra couldn't help but notice that his face lit up when he spotted Glynis. Hymm...thought Madra, I'll have to keep my eye on this. "Hello, Ms. Glynis," he said. "It's so nice to see you again!" Glynis smiled and replied, "Hi Sam, please call me Glynis, and it's nice to see you again, too." Madra noticed that he was actually blushing and tried to contain a smile. "If you tell me which bags are yours, I'll get them and we can go home then." Sam said. Glynis looked at him and noticed, perhaps for the first time, that he was actually quite handsome in a rugged sort of way. "They're the red ones, Sam, and thank you." she replied. On the ride home, the girls fell asleep, exhausted from their exciting trip to the airport. Madra noticed that Glynis seemed a little quiet and withdrawn. "What's wrong, Glynnie? You know you can tell me." said Madra. "Oh, Madra, I just don't know where to begin....I'm just so ashamed and unhappy..." she replied as tears welled in her eyes and slid down her cheeks. At that Madra pulled her younger sister into her arms and said, "It's alright Glynnie, whatever it is...you know Max and I will help you. Please don't worry."

To be continued.....