Lila sprang from her seat as she rushed to embrace Eliza.
“Eliza!” Lila called out, her voice bright with joy.
“Easy there,” Thomas warned in a low, firm tone, like a lion protecting its family. “She’s faced tough times and made it through.” He fixed Lila with a sharp look, showing how fiercely he protected Eliza.
Lila’s eyes were filled with fiery defiance and seemed to ignore Thomas’ overprotective growl. Grasping Eliza’s hand, she felt the undeniable bond between them.
“Gabriel told me what you did and the role you played in my rescue,” Lila’s voice quivered with raw emotion. “I owe you my life.” Tears welled up in her eyes, ready to spill, sparkling brightly.
Eliza’s face showed bravery and fear as she whispered, “You don’t owe me anything…” Eliza looked at the floor, the guilt
