Part 13 - ARDEN'S CONQUEST

I felt tense with unspoken emotions as I waited for the arrival of my mother, Adam and Brave. I had been nervous all day, hoping that this meeting would help mend the strained relationship with Adam, but I couldn't shake off the feeling of dread.

As the doorbell rang, My heart raced. I rushed to answer it, and there stood my mother, her appearance becoming stronger. Braven was the first to step inside, his face lighting up as he saw me. He jumped at me and gave me a warm hug.

"Addie, I've missed you," Braven said, grinning.

I smiled, feeling choked with emotion. "I've missed you too, Braven."

I led them to the living room where Arden was waiting, talking to someone on the phone.

I turned to Adam. He remained distant, standing a few steps behind, his eyes avoiding my gaze. He only greeted me with a curt nod. My heart sank, but I tried to smile.

My mother, sensing the tension in the room, tried to diffuse it with a warm smile. "It's good to see all my children together again," she