?Chapter 690:


    “Grandma!” Evie cried, her face lighting up as she flung herself into her grandmother’s waiting arms. “Grandma! I missed you so much. I just had to see you.”


    Makenna’s POV:


    Rosaline Hampton, Evie’s grandmother, gazed at her with a look so tender it could melt ice, her fingers lightly pinching Evie’s cheek. “My dear granddaughter, you’re always fluttering around like a butterfly—so busy I barely get a glimpse of you. Is there something you need my help with today?”


    Evie blinked dramatically, hugging her grandmother’s arm and swaying it gently. “Oh, Grandma, what are you talking about? I just missed you, that’s all! Can’t Ie to see you for no reason?”


    Rosaline teased with a chuckle. “You little sweet-talker! Always trying to butter me up. I don’t buy it for a second! You must have something else on your mind.”


    At this, Evie puffed out her cheeks in an exaggerated pout, snuggling closer into her grandmother’s embrace. “Grandma, you wound me! I missed you—why won’t you believe me? It’s breaking my heart!”


    Her antics were so charming that I couldn’t hold back augh.


    Rosaline’s sharp eyes flicked to me for the first time, her kind expression shifting seamlessly. “And who is this youngdy?” she asked.


    Evie brightened immediately, sping my hand. “Grandma, this is my good friend, Makenna Dunn. She’s the nicest person you’ll ever meet.”


    Without missing a beat, Evieunched into the story of how we met, recounting the incident. “When those awful people tried to bully me, Makenna stepped in without a second thought. She looked after me as if I were family.”


    Rosaline’s face softened further, her gratitude palpable as she reached out to sp my hand tightly. “Miss Dunn, I can’t thank you enough. Knowing Evie had someone like you looking out for her brings me such peace. Truly, thank you.”


    Caught off guard, I stammered, shaking my head quickly. “Oh no, Mrs. Hampton, please don’t thank me. Evie and I get along so well—I’m just d I could be there for her. It really wasn’t a big deal.”


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    Rosaline’s smile widened, her approval radiating. “Such a gooddy! Evie is truly blessed to have someone as kind-hearted as you in her life.”


    Feeling a little flustered under the weight of her praise, I cast a nce at Evie, silently begging her to step in.


    Evie, ever the perceptive one, grinned, saying, “Grandma, let’s not stand out here chatting in the wind. Come on inside—we can talk properly.”


    Rosaline nodded, herugh light and cheerful. “You’re right, my dear. Look at me, getting carried away with happiness. Let’s go in.”


    As we entered the room, the cozy decor wrapped around us like aforting hug. The simplicity of the furnishings spoke volumes about Rosaline’s gentle nature, each detail exuding warmth and humility.


    While I admired the space, Evie had alreadyunched into an exnation about the child. My nerves prickled as I watched Rosaline’s face for any signs of disapproval. The idea of her refusing left my heart in my throat.


    When Evie finished, I quickly added, “Mrs. Hampton, if you’re willing to take the child in, I’d be happy to ensure you’repensated generously. It’s the least I can do for such a noble gesture. What do you think?”


    Rosaline waved her hand dismissively, her expression one of genuine warmth. “Oh, you sweet thing, talking about rewards. There’s no need for such things.”


    Her words caught me off guard, leaving me momentarily speechless.


    She gently patted my hand, her voice brimming with reassurance. “I can see that you truly care for this child. Your sincerity alone is reason enough for me to help. How could I possibly say no?”


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