On the sidelines, Mia and Patricia sat together on a nearby bench while Sage and Ginger frolicked nearby.

Turning to Mia, Patricia inquired, "Mia, what prompted your sudden return? Is there something you need to address here?"

Mia sighed before responding, "You seem to catch on to everything, don't you?"

"Come on, don't keep me in the dark. What's the deal? Did the Barrett family stumble upon something concerning the children? Is that why you've returned to handle the situation?" Patricia pressed.

Seeing Patricia's cautious expression, Mia couldn't help but feel a pang of empathy. "Aunt Patricia, it's not that. The custody of the kids is not something the Barrett family can challenge or take away from me. You don't need to worry about that."

"But given the power of the Barretts, I can't help but be concerned that you might struggle to deal with them.

"Remember how perilously close you came to losing your life in their clutches years ago? Surely that hasn't slipped your mind, has it?"

Mia tenderly held Patricia's hand as she reassured her, "Please, don't worry about me. My family in Nord City holds considerable influence. We're not intimidated by the Barretts. So, please, try not to fret too much. I'll manage just fine."

"Are you absolutely sure?" Patricia questioned, a hint of doubt evident in her expression.

was aware of Mia's brothers' wealth, she also recognized the extensive influence of the Barretts, which surpassed mere financial

of affluence, there were often subtle intricacies

believed it was time to unveil her true identity to

had been rushed, leaving

top of everything, the constant threat of Timothy's surveillance had made Mia cautious about maintaining secrecy,

conversation was interrupted as several neighbors approached, warmly

introduced Mia. "This is my cherished niece. Now that she's not as occupied with work, she's brought

looks so youthful. I wouldn't have

but also accomplished and successful. We're

in response, "Aunt Patricia has been my rock for so many years. Naturally,

Mia's words, Patricia reached out and tenderly grasped her hand. "Silly child, why bring up such matters now? The past is behind us, and you're thriving more than ever." Mia nodded

on how her life might have taken a different path if Patricia hadn't shown compassion all those years

Mary would have sold her off

a neighbor swiftly shifted the topicz "Let's shift gears here. Ms. Lane, we've heard you've been single for quite some time. Do you have any preferences for

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