Chapter 97 Leaving Reality

"Miss Jane!" Mrs. Abernathy exclaimed, her ample arms enveloping Jane in a tight hug. "We were worried sick! What on earth happened in London?" Tears welled up in Jane's eyes, the dam of emotions she'd been holding back finally threatening to burst. She sank into Mrs. Abernathy's embrace, letting out a choked sob. Fred, ever perceptive, placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Let's go inside, love," he said, his voice a steady murmur. "There's hot tea waiting, and Mrs. Abernathy has news about the new litter of kittens." The mention of the playful kittens, a recent source of delight for the farm, brought a flicker of a smile to Jane's lips.Inside, the familiar scent of cinnamon and freshly baked bread filled her senses, a comforting balm to her troubled heart. As Mrs. Abernathy bustled about, setting the table for a belated lunch, Jane sank onto the worn armchair by the fireplace.The gentle crackle of the burning logs seemed to echo the sound of her broken dreams. Fred settled