Time passed in the blink of an eye, and over the following months, Valery grew up within the walls of the Mason household.
The fragile, malnourished child she once was slowly faded into memory.
Each day, her body grew stronger, her cheeks fuller, and her steps lighter, until there was little trace left of the frailty that had once clung to her like a shadow.
Regular meals, warm beds, and gentle care transformed her bit by bit, allowing her to finally grow as a child should.
Valery had no complaints about her new life—how could she? She was never alone.
Dale and Francis were constant presences, always ready to include her in their games or shield her whenever she felt unsure.
Beyond them were the many children from the orphanage, whose laughter filled her days and turned the mansion's grounds into a place of endless play.
From sunrise to sunset, Valery's world was brimming with voices, footsteps, and joy.
More than playmates, however, Valery found family.
