Chapter 10 – THE MOTHER WHO BROUGHT THEM TOGETHER

Isabella’s health stabilized with consistent medical care and a safer daily routine.

She still experienced confusion.

But she had more good days.

And Delaney became one of the people who helped her feel grounded.

One afternoon, Isabella sat in the garden room.

Delaney was arranging flowers.

Damon entered carrying tea.

His mother smiled.

“Look at you.”

He frowned.

“What?”

“Bringing tea.”

Delaney laughed.

Damon rolled his eyes.

“Mom.”

Isabella looked at Delaney.

“He used to be impossible.”

Delaney grinned.

“Used to?”

Damon sighed.

“I’m standing right here.”

They laughed.

Later, Isabella asked Delaney to sit beside her.

“Child.”

Delaney smiled.

“Yes?”

“Do you love my son?”

Delaney froze.

“Mrs. Bianchi—”

The older woman smiled knowingly.

“You do.”

Delaney blushed.

“I care about him.”

Isabella nodded.

“Good.”

She took Delaney’s hand.

“Don’t love him because he’s rich.”

Delaney laughed softly.

“I don’t.”

“And don’t be afraid of him because he’s powerful.”

Delaney looked down.

Isabella squeezed her hand.

“Make him earn your trust.”

Delaney smiled.

“I will.”

That evening, Damon found his mother smiling to herself.

“What are you thinking?”

Isabella looked at him.

“About soup.”

He laughed.

“Soup?”

She nodded.

“Sometimes the smallest things bring the biggest blessings.”

Damon looked toward the conservatory.

Delaney stood near the window.

Snow had begun falling again.

He smiled.

For the first time in years, he believed his mother was right.

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