Contrary to common belief, at least in Grace and Oliver's case, an ill-timed affair did nothing but wonders for their business relationship. Work was pleasant and the atmosphere remained light. Of course, Annie's presence in the house did contribute. Neither let their ever-growing attraction get in the way or be known. Not until Oliver made an important decision.

More nervous than he'd been in years, Oliver paced his study. He'd called for Grace five minutes ago. He knew if he waited much longer he'd lose his nerve. This was the main reason he wanted to talk to her. The minute he told her of his plan he knew she would hold him to it.

At last, she appeared, out of breath from running.

"I'm sorry, sir. I was helping Annie untangle herself."

"I beg your pardon?"

"You see, Anette has been teaching her how to knit. Fascinated by the yarn she unraveled the entire thing and got wrapped up in it."

Oliver laughed. "She doesn't quit, does she?"

"No, sir."

"Grace, I want to run something by you."

"Shall I run and get my notepad?"

"No, no." His expression turned serious. "This doesn't concern work."

"Is something the matter?"

"No, everything is fine."

"You look worried."

"I am."

"You can tell me…"

Gesturing for her to sit down, he took the chair across from her by the fire. He searched for the right words, leaving a good silence before he spoke. "I've been, uh, doing some thinking."

"What about?" she questioned.

"Annie… it's been nice having her here, hasn't it?"

"Wonderful."

"You think we're still getting work done?"

"More if you can believe it. I think we've been working faster knowing she's waiting around."

"Good, good…"

Before she let her hopes get the better of her, she said, "Please, what is this all about?"

"Call me crazy but, um… What do you think about me, you know, maybe letting her stay? Permanently?"

"Oh, Mr. Warbucks!" Grace nearly cried. "I think that would be absolutely splendid!"

Oliver gave a nervous smile. "Yeah?"

"She seems so happy here and she adores you. I think it is a marvelous idea."

"I'm glad you think so. Here I thought I was beginning to lose my mind."

Patting his knee, she said, "It'll take time to adjust, I'm sure, but it will all be worth it. I promise you."

"See, I wanted to make mention of this to you because…" He trailed off. "I feel silly."

"What is it?"

"I don't know the first thing about taking care of a child. You and the rest of the staff have done all that stuff. Making sure she's eating well and putting together her clothes… you know."

"Everyone here loves her. I can say with confidence that they will all be delighted."

"You think so?"

"I know so."

Letting out a breath, Oliver stood. "Now that I've said it… it feels official."

Standing as well, Grace questioned, "Isn't this what you want?"

"Yes, but the notion is still a bit off-putting. I never planned on this. I never was one for kids. She's the only one who tried to get through to me."

"And hasn't it been worth it?"

"Yes, it has."

She looked at him a moment, wishing she knew the right words to ease his worries. When they never came to mind, she said all she could think of. "I'll be right here to help you."

Without much thought, he pulled her into a hug, holding on tight. "I don't know what I'd do without your help… with everything."

She hugged back, almost surprised by the contentment she felt being in his arms again — even if this wasn't in any way a romantic gesture.

"I'd like to get her a gift," he mumbled against her shoulder.

Pulling back to look at him, Grace asked, "What kind of a gift?"

"I'm not sure. Nothing too grand. A trinket, really. I was thinking a new locket. That one she wears…"

She laughed. "I know."

Taking a full step back from her, he said, "I don't understand the attachment. It can hardly be considered a locket broken off like that."

"Don't forget she's gone her entire life without a penny to her name. It's no doubt the nicest thing she's ever owned."

Oliver shook his head. "On one level I know that. I wasn't far off at her age. I guess I've become set in my ways."

"Don't worry about that right now. I think a new locket is very thoughtful."

"Maybe, but what do I know about jewelry?"

With an eyebrow raised, Grace replied, "This from a man who owns more jewelry than I do?"

"Those are investments and you know it."

"I'm teasing," she said. "If you want I can help pick something out?"

"That would be great."

"Where do you want it from?"

"Tiffany's. Definitely Tiffany's."

"I can stop by tomorrow and have it delivered."

"Good, good. While you're at it I want you to stop by the orphanage and have Miss Hannigan sign the necessary paperwork."

With an impish grin, she said, "I look forward to that."