Chapter 69

• She knew she looked different now. Her appearance exuded softness, dressed in a feminine floral summer dress that complemented her natural black hair. The long locks fell gracefully, a stark contrast to the lightened, highlighted, and layered style she once wore. With no makeup, her sun-kissed complexion glowed with health from her time outdoors by the sea. She had evolved into a simple village girl who prioritized her heart over appearance, and this transformation was evident in the radiance that emanated from her entire being.
• "It can't be...." Johnny breathed out in shock, unable to tear his broken and confused expression off his face. However, Mother was the first to make a move. Pushing her sons' hands from her frail body with a burst of renewed vigor and coming at her with speed. Her legs were finding strength, and she practically ran to her like a giddy child while her face was sodden with instant rolling tears.
• "Sophia? My Sophia? My little girl. You came home to me." She burst into sobs as she closed the gaps between them, throwing herself at her and wrapping her arms around her neck and upper body, gripping her with vice-like strength. She was bowled back but managed to support her weight, stopping them from colliding with the bookcase, and didn't resist as she clung to her like a lifebuoy.