"Long time, my sweet boy," the lady said. She was hugging Oliver tightly. Her cheeks were red, her voice chirpy. Cece couldn't understand whether the lady was flushed because of happiness or the heat outside.
"I am doing fine, Aunty Jane," Oliver responded happily. However, the happiness in his voice did not reach his eyes. "Mom missed you a lot."
"I know honey, I missed her too, but don't tell her about it." The lady turned her attention towards Cece, her eyes observing her with something very close to judgment, even malice, but she did well concealing it. "Who is this young woman?"
Oliver looked at Cece, raising a brow. It was his way of asking for permission. He was not certain how much he could tell the lady, or how much of the information he could share without making Cece uncomfortable. Cece took a moment to decide. Then she extended her hand confidently.
