Zara had now started living in the mansion with her mother and little Lilly.
Her life had finally turned around something she had never imagined would happen.
That afternoon, Zara sat beside Mrs. Ashford in the living room. Lilly was still at school, and the house was quiet. Zara rested her head gently on her mother’s lap while Mrs. Ashford softly stroked her hair.
“Mum,” Zara said softly.
“Yes, my dear?”
“I want to start working again. I know I have you now… but I still want to help Brother Victor.”
Mrs. Ashford smiled warmly.
“That’s very thoughtful of you, my dear. You don’t need to ask for permission. Of course you should work if that’s what you want.”
Zara’s face lit up with happiness.
“But,” Mrs. Ashford added gently, “you will start after Christmas… and after Victor and May
