Irina's POV
Vera's eyes went glassy as she spoke, like she was drifting back through decades of memories.
I pushed myself up from my seat and wrapped my arms around her, rubbing circles on her back. "Vera, don't do this to yourself. They've been circling me like vultures for years. The Bernards just needed pocket change to throw me under the bus."
"If you hadn't been there, I'd be nothing right now. So cut yourself some slack," I said, letting warmth creep into my voice in a way I rarely did with anyone.
"Look at my sweet girl, all grown up..." Vera brushed her fingertips along my cheek. "Don't let that anger eat you alive, honey. You've got your whole life stretching out ahead of you - endless possibilities. I want you in Anastasia. That's your real home, where you'll absolutely kill it."
Vera had lived through enough heartbreak and joy to fill ten lifetimes. She'd mastered the art of letting go. She didn't want me drowning in revenge.
