âNo, everything is fine!â Nora reassured me quickly.
âAbbyâs a dream child.
She eats and sleeps without a fuss.
Donât worry a bit.
â
Relief washed over me.
âThank you,â I said with a smile.
âYouâre the reason sheâs doing well.
Youâve been wonderful.
â
âYouâve been incredibly kind and helpful to me.
Taking care of Abby is the least I can do.
I wonât let you down,â Nora replied earnestly.
Touched by her sincerity, I offered, âWith you caring for Abby, I have complete peace of mind.
Truly, donât hesitate to ask if you need anything.
â
I mentioned that because something felt off about Nora.
Her initial reaction when I returned struck me as odd.
Perhaps, if not for Abby, she faced a problem-something she was too embarrassed or hesitant to bring up.
However, Nora simply shook her head, muttering, âIâm alrightâ¦â
My curiosity piqued and I couldnât help but ask, âWhat is it you want to say?â
A kaleidoscope of emotions flickered across Noraâs face.
Sensing her internal struggle, I remained patient, giving her time to gather her thoughts.
After a tense five minutes, Nora furrowed her brow.
âI overheard you went to Veronicaâs manor today.
You mentioned something unexpected happening.
Did you get hurt? Are you alright?â
Her question, after all that deliberation, left me surprised and confused.
âWhy do you ask?â
Once again, Nora seemed conflicted.
She clearly wanted to speak her mind but kept hesitating.
Sighing heavily, she said, âNever mind.
Just be cautious around her and her circle.
Abbyâs young, and she needs her motherâs love and protection.
â
While her sincerity was evident, her words caused a frown to form on my face.
âAre you worried Shirley might harm me because Iâm Andrewâs fiancee?â I asked.
Nora avoided my gaze, a flicker of embarrassment crossing her face.
Confused by her words and demeanor, I pressed further.
âExplain what you mean.
What are you trying to warn me about?â
Noraâs struggle was clear.
In a hushed tone, she said, âItâs better you donât know.
Knowing too much wonât help you; it might even endanger youâ¦â
Frustration tugged at me, but I maintained my patience.
âI understand you care, but to protect myself, I need to know the truth, right?â
My words seemed to sway her.
After a long pause, she confessed, âMaybe Iâm overthinking, but Iâm genuinely worried.
â
I listened quietly.
âWhen I was young, Veronica orchestrated a brutal massacre of mixed-blood witches.
Many died.
And you happen to be mixed-blood.
Iâm afraid Veronica might use that against you.
â