?Chapter 3039:


    “It’s been such a long time, Emma.”


    Although Savannah’s heart sank for a moment, her expression stayedposed as she gently held Elissa’s hand and presented her.


    “This is my daughter, Elissa. Do you still remember her?”


    “Of course I do!” Emma replied with a bright nod. “Elissa and I spent years as ssmates. It’s been so long, but still…” Turning toward Elissa, she added warmly, “You look just the same after all these years!”


    Elissa said nothing. She listened politely, though none of Emma’s words sparked any memory.


    “Emma,” Savannah said, keeping an arm around Elissa while offering an apologetic smile. “I hope you’ll forgive how quiet Elissa is these days.”


    “I don’t mind at all,” Emma said, blinking in surprise before her smile returned.


    She already knew a bit about what Elissa had been through.


    Word had spread among their circle that Elissa, blinded by love, had once defied her parents and run off with a man to another country. Several years passed before she returned, justst year, broken and frail.


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    Her life had hung by a thread, and Neville had spared no effort, exhausting every medical option in Ontmond and even seeking help from other states to save her.


    It had taken relentless care to pull her back from the edge. Still, the ordeal had left scars that changed her forever.


    Emma had never nned to touch upon such a painful topic, knowing how improper it would be. However, to her surprise, it was Savannah herself who alluded to it.


    Even more surprised was Neville.


    Neville nced down at his wife with a frown, clearly taken aback. He’d always known that Savannah insisted no one ever speak of Elissa’s condition in her presence, determined to shield their daughter’s pride.


    But now…


    Perhaps she didn’t mean it, though.


    Savannah appeared perfectly at ease, her expression soft as she continued her cheerful conversation with Emma. “Shall we make our way to the course? We can talk as we walk.”


    “Of course, Mrs. Brown.”


    With a pleasant nod, Savannah smiled, then looked toward Elissa and said, “Stay beside me, alright? There are plenty of people around, so don’t wander off.”


    For a moment, Elissa froze, hershes trembling as she whispered, “Alright.”


    Maybe Savannah was right. She wasn’t like everyone else anymore.


    Neville’s gaze moved between the mother and daughter, a deep crease forming on his forehead. If earlier he had thought Savannah’s words were only idental and harmless, now he was certain—she did this on purpose.


    Why would she do that, though? What could possibly be on her mind?


    With Emma standing nearby, Neville had no choice but to hold his tongue. Instead, he looked down at Elissa and spoke gently. “Don’t be scared, sweetheart. I’m right here. Everything’s fine.”


    “Alright.” Elissa’s lips tightened as she gave a small nod. “Thank you, Dad.”


    Her words sounded calm enough, yet her timid movements betrayed the unease she tried to hide.


    As they walked, Savannah carried on as though she’d forgotten her daughter was even there, chatting brightly with Emma. “How have things been for you all these years?”


    “Quite well,” Emma replied with a grin. “I’ve spent much of my time traveling. It’s been an incredible experience.”


    “I heard you settled in Tidebourne for a while?”


    “That’s right,” Emma said, nodding before ncing over at Elissa. “Elissa lived in Srixby back then, didn’t she?”


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