Blizzard, First Love and a Wife Who Finally Snaps novel Chapter 187

Mrs. Ashford spoke the words fluently, but a careful listener could detect a slight difference in her pronunciation, a hint that she was not a native speaker. She was likely born and raised here, but she had probably practiced that one sentence over and over, waiting for the day she might see her daughter again.

Isabel felt a dull ache in her heart, for reasons she couldn't quite explain. She raised her arms and returned the embrace, feeling that words were useless. A silent comfort was all she could offer.

It was Julian who eventually came over and gently pried her out of Mrs. Ashford’s arms.

“Let’s all sit down and talk. A lifetime of hugging isn’t going to change what’s already happened.”

Miles helped Mrs. Ashford to a seat, echoing Julian’s sentiment. “That’s right, Auntie.”

Mrs. Ashford nodded, but her eyes remained fixed on Isabel’s face, unblinking. It made Isabel feel a bit self-conscious.

Julian shifted his position slightly, blocking part of her intense gaze. Mr. Ashford met his slightly narrowed eyes and realized they were being too forward. He took his wife’s hand and gave it a gentle shake.

Only then did Mrs. Ashford look away.

Mr. Ashford offered Isabel an apologetic smile and introduced himself. “Hello, Miss Hayes. I’m Victor Ashford, and this is my wife, Vivienne.” He then apologized. “Please forgive her emotional state. Miles has likely told you our story. We are overcome with guilt, and you have such a kind face… you remind us so much of our daughter.”

The Durantin family had become the top family abroad by clawing their way through battles with other powerful clans. Such a position always came at a price. But Victor Ashford had never imagined that the price would be his own daughter, a tiny, innocent baby. Deep down, he knew that an infant taken by enemies had little chance of survival. But if he and Vivienne didn't hold onto the hope that she was still alive, he didn’t know how they would go on.

“Please, tell us whatever you require. Don’t be hesitant with us. We are longtime partners and friends with Mr. Reed’s family. And don’t feel sensitive about our situation. You are not responsible for what happened. We simply want to do more good in the world, hoping that if our daughter is alive somewhere, someone is treating her with kindness.”

Isabel’s eyes instantly filled with tears. From the moment Mrs. Ashford had hugged her, a heavy feeling had settled in her chest, a profound sorrow wrapping around her. She even had the absurd thought that perhaps she really was their long-lost daughter.

She stepped out from behind Julian. “You don’t have to be so kind to me. I won’t take your daughter’s name. I truly hope you find her and your family can be whole again. All I need is your surname, and for the Durantin family to provide cover for my new identity.”