His expression softened considerably, and he smiled affectionately. "Autumn, I'm sorry for what you went through today. Does your face still hurt?"
"I'm fine, Dad." Autumn Shelby seemed very well-behaved and understanding. As she spoke, she reached up to touch her face. And though she insisted she was fine, her hand faltered, and her smile stiffened.
Evan Shelby could clearly see she was just putting on a brave face to reassure him, and his heart ached for her. He said quickly, "Even if it doesn't hurt, you should still put some ice on it to keep it from swelling. Our Autumn has done a great service for the Shelby Family. You took care of Seth Quinn and the Quinn Family, which means I can certainly take care of anyone else who tries to cause trouble for you. Autumn, just you wait. You're going to be the young mistress of the Quinn Family."
Autumn Shelby's face broke into a radiant smile. "Thank you, Dad. Well, Mom, Dad, I'll head out first. I'll leave you two to talk."
