Summary

In Chapter 33, Gertrude remembers the night Hayden came home with Matthew. Because he was in trouble, she “saved him,” just as she had always saved her family “no matter the cost to others” (278, 279).

The agents arrive at St. Barnabas. Lauren calls David with the paternity test results. After hanging up, he and Sarah meet with Cheryl. Max presses her for the truth, demanding to know if David is Matthew’s father. Cheryl looks overwhelmed and confused. Max reveals that David is Matthew’s father. Cheryl realizes “Matthew is still alive” (281).

In Chapter 34, David and Rachel meet up. They talk about Cheryl and “the sperm donation” (282). He tells Rachel even if he is “not the biological father,” Matthew is still his son (282). In the car, David reviews the photos Hayden sent. They decide to visit Irene for better photos.

The Paynes...