Elaine's smile softened as she took Delphinia's hand, her thumb brushing over her knuckles gently. "You look so much like her," she murmured. "It's almost as though she's standing here in front of me."
Delphinia blinked, her mouth slightly open in shock. "How did you know my mom?"
Elaine nodded, a bittersweet expression spreading across her face. "Oh, dear, we were inseparable once upon a time. Cecilia and I grew up together. We shared everything—our dreams, our fears, our happiest moments."
Evander, who had been standing protectively by Delphinia's side, gently placed a hand on her lower back, silently encouraging her to listen. She glanced at him briefly before returning her attention to Elaine.
"I didn't know…" Delphinia's voice trembled slightly. "No one's ever mentioned you to me."
