We passed through a quiet covered walkway, and at its end stood a redwood door. The moment it opened, a slender figure appeared behind a gauzy curtain.
My eyes widened as I froze in place. "It’s really you?"
She smiled softly. "Miss Liora, it’s been a long time."
She stepped forward and gently took my hand. Just as I was about to respond, she suddenly dropped to her knees with a heavy thud.
"Please save my son!"
Behind us, Jaxon and Arabelle stood frozen in shock, having followed and witnessed the entire scene.
Before I could say a word, Arabelle shoved me aside and stepped forward to help.
"Aunt Tessa, what are you doing? You’re actually kneeling to someone like her?"
Tessa brushed her hand away without hesitation and turned back, resolutely kneeling at my feet.
"Please, I know you can do it."
Jaxon stared at me with confusion in his eyes, as if unable to understand what kind of strength a quiet woman like me, someone only known for taking care of others, could possibly possess.
I gently helped Tessa to her feet and said, "Since I’ve agreed to marry him, he is my fiancé, and I’ll take responsibility for him."