Chapter 102

Nora made an effort to speak with precise pronunciation, her words slow and deliberate. "I know you're a good person. Mom did bad things. I don't blame you anymore." "You'll get a home too, Nora. You're still young. These things will fade from memory when you grow up." I gently stroked her head, feeling an ache in my heart as I looked at her. "I'll help you find someone to adopt you. I'll make sure you get a loving and qualified set of parents, okay?" She stayed silent, simply gazing at me. "Cassie, she got hurt because of me. I feel guilty." I was confused by her words. "I tried to help. I secretly brought her food." I realized she was talking about Diana. "She ran, wanted to go home. I helped. I wasn't scared. Mom did it for me. Blame me, not Mom." It was the first time I had heard Nora speak so much. Her eyes carried no emotion as she spoke each word with clarity. "If I die, will Mom live?" I pulled the dazed little girl into my arms, hugging her tightly. I felt my heart br