Evander and Hazel returned, bringing Alice with them. Elena, who was initially startled to see Hazel again, quickly dismissed her presence. Her attention was now fixed on the woman they had brought with them.
"Who is she?" Elena asked as Evander approached and hugged her.
Evander glanced at Alice, who sat with her head bowed.
"She is Noah's adoptive mother," he answered softly.
Elena froze instantly, her face flushing as she held back tears. She walked over to Alice and knelt before her.
"What are you doing? Please, don't do this," Alice pleaded, sliding from the chair to sit on the floor, facing Elena.
Evander and Hazel watched the scene in silence. Alistair and Emily, who had just entered, also fell quiet at the sight.
With tears streaming down her face, Elena clasped her hands to
