Ana's POV
Evergreen Kindergarten stood as one of Veridia's most prestigious private institutions, where wealthy families sent their heirs to mingle with other privileged children.
I smoothed down the soft yellow dress Hughes had brought me yesterday, checking my light makeup one final time in my compact mirror.
The kindergarten entrance loomed before me, and I felt a wave of disorientation wash over me.
This place held so many memories—I'd made this same walk countless times, dropping Hughes off each morning and collecting him each afternoon. But that was before prison, before everything changed.
Today marked both my return and my farewell.
The anniversary celebration resembled an upscale social event more than a typical school function. Sleek luxury vehicles lined the street, and well-dressed parents escorted their children through the gates. I stood alone among the crowd.
"Excuse me, ma'am. May I see your invitation?" The security guard's voice cut through my thoughts.
