Chapter 17
A distinguished young couple, eyes red–rimmed, swept into the room. They gathered the boy into a crushing embrace, weeping. []
They were Lucas Gray and his wife – California’s wealthiest family. The boy was their son, Ian Gray.
Kidnapped by rivals six months ago, vanished into the wilderness. Hospital records matched his DNA.[]
Fiona was genuinely happy for Ian. []
His innate kindness shone through his trauma. She prayed his memory would return.[]
But the amnesia held. An recognized only Fiona. []
He shrank from his parents, burrowing into Fiona’s arms.]
The Grays didn’t blame him, only ached for the horrors he must have endured. []
They turned to Fiona, pleading. “Please… come home with us. Help An bridge this gap. Just for now.“]
Fiona hesitated, then spoke truthfully. “I have time. I’m willing. But… I bring trouble.” []
“Powerful enemies are searching for me.“[]
The Grays exchanged a look of surprise, then resolve. []
Lucas met her gaze directly. “Have you broken the law?“]
“No,” Fiona whispered. “I was the victim. I ran.“[]
Relief washed over their faces. []
“You saved our son. You stayed with him. That tells us everything we need to know. You helped us. We help you.” []
“No one will touch you here. You are safe.“]
Their conviction was absolute, their power evident. A weight Fiona hadn’t realized she carried lifted. Safety. Sanctuary.[]
Fiona moved into the Gray estate as Ian’s godmother. []
She explored their vast tea plantations with him, learned to make rose petal pastries. []
In this land of eternal spring, Fiona’s wounds slowly scarred over.[]
One day, they rode horses along the mountain. []
The path wound upwards, flanked by dense forest and roaring gorges. Hooves crunched on fallen leaves, a rhythmic, ancient sound.
The vastness of the mountains dwarfed her pain, leaving a fragile peace.
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Chapter 17
As they led the horses back to the stables, the tranquil symphony of the mountains–birdsong, wind, hoofbeats–froze.]
A voice, raw with desperation, shattered the calm behind her:[]
“Fiona!”
She didn’t need to turn. She knew that familiar voice.]
Seth Sterling.]
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Chapter 18
