Thomas let out a quiet breath of relief.
At least there was some good news.
Luna's gaze lingered on Maya for a moment longer.
Her daughter was so gentle, obedient, and kind.
Everything a daughter should be.
Sometimes she could not help but think that if Dakota had possessed even half of Maya's temperament, perhaps things would never have reached this point. Dakota had always been stubborn, always unwilling to bend, and in the end she had chosen to sever all ties with them.
Even now, Luna found it difficult to understand it.
What parent expected their own child to walk away completely?
Yet some truths were easier left unspoken.
Because beneath the anger and wounded pride lay a reality neither Richard nor Luna had ever truly confronted.
This situation had not been born overnight.
Neglect was rarely loud.
Sometimes it appeared in moments that were missed.
In words left unsaid.
In comfort never given.
