Meet My Brothers

On the sidelines, Mia and Patricia sat together on a nearby bench while Sage and Ginger frolicked nearby.

Turning to Mia, Patricia inquired, "Mia, what prompted your sudden return? Is there something you need to address here?"

Mia sighed before responding, "You seem to catch on to everything, don't you?"

"Come on, don't keep me in the dark. What's the deal? Did the Barrett family stumble upon something concerning the children? Is that why you've returned to handle the situation?" Patricia pressed.

Seeing Patricia's cautious expression, Mia couldn't help but feel a pang of empathy. "Aunt Patricia, it's not that. The custody of the kids is not something the Barrett family can challenge or take away from me. You don't need to worry about that."

"But given the power of the Barretts, I can't help but be concerned that you might struggle to deal with them.

"Remember how perilously close you came to losing your life in their clutches years ago? Surely that hasn't slipped your mind, has it?"

Mia tenderly held Patricia's hand as she reassured her, "Please, don't worry about me. My family in Nord City holds considerable influence. We're not intimidated by the Barretts. So, please, try not to fret too much. I'll manage just fine."

"Are you absolutely sure?" Patricia questioned, a hint of doubt evident in her expression.

Though Patricia was aware of Mia's brothers' wealth, she also recognized the extensive influence of the Barretts, which surpassed mere financial means.

Within the realm of affluence, there were often subtle intricacies and disparities.

Nevertheless, Mia believed it was time to unveil her true identity to Patricia.

During her previous visit, circumstances had been rushed, leaving no opportunity for disclosure.

On top of everything, the constant threat of Timothy's surveillance had made Mia cautious about maintaining secrecy, fearing the consequences of Patricia discovering her true identity. However, now it felt unnecessary to keep hiding.

"Aunt Patricia, I am actually-" Mia began, but their conversation was interrupted as several neighbors approached, warmly greeting Patricia.

With a beaming smile, Patricia proudly introduced Mia. "This is my cherished niece. Now that she's not as occupied with work, she's brought her children for a visit."

"Your niece is absolutely stunning! She looks so youthful. I wouldn't have guessed she's a mother of two," one neighbor exclaimed.

"Absolutely, she's not just beautiful but also accomplished and successful. We're all a bit envious," another neighbor chimed in.

Mia chuckled modestly in response, "Aunt Patricia has been my rock for so many years. Naturally, I owe her everything. Without her, I might not have turned out as well."

After Mia's words, Patricia reached out and tenderly grasped her hand. "Silly child, why bring up such matters now? The past is behind us, and you're thriving more than ever." Mia nodded appreciatively. "I understand."

Still, she couldn't help but reflect on how her life might have taken a different path if Patricia hadn't shown compassion all those years ago.

Maybe Bob and Mary would have sold her off a long time ago.

Sensing the tension in the air, a neighbor swiftly shifted the topicz "Let's shift gears here. Ms. Lane, we've heard you've been single for quite some time. Do you have any preferences for your future partner?"

Mia was surprised by the sudden change in conversation. "Excuse me?"

"Don't misunderstand, Ms. Lane.

Being a single parent can be

challenging, so finding a supportive

partner is crucial. I have a friend

whose son recently went through a

divorce.

"He's quite remarkable—a finance executive, handsome, and well-established. Would you be interested in meeting him?"

"I also have a close friend whose son was on the verge of marrying his ex-girlfriend," another neighbor eagerly added.

"Unfortunately, she made some unreasonable demands and called off the engagement. Despite his divorce, he hasn't remarried or had any children. He's quite the catch."

The two neighbors seemed on the brink of squabbling over who had the better matchmaking prospect.

Observing the scene, Mia couldn't

help but feel mixture of

ว

velaet

amusement and exasperation. "I'mContent from NôvelDr(a)ma.Org.

sorry, but I'm not currently considering any romantic prospects," she firmly stated.

"Ms. Lane, are you still hung up on your ex-husband?"