Barbara and Kristie exchanged surprised glances when they heard Greta's voice. The girl hadn't spoken since her mother died over three years ago. If she was finally talking, it meant she was starting to let go of the past and could be happy with her guardians, especially the baron, who treated her like his late daughter, Kate.
"No!" Kristie quickly replied, gently stroking Greta's cheeks. "The baron will be fine," she added, trying to sound reassuring, though her posture was tense.
Barbara knelt beside Greta, taking her small hands in hers. "Hey, it's okay. The baron will get better, and then he'll play with you and take you shopping," she said softly, trying to ease the girl's pain by reminding her of happier times with the baron.
Greta's hazel eyes were filled with tears, and her fear was evident. "B-but what if he doesn't make it?" Greta's voice wavered, and her emotions spilt over.
