Chapter 28

Catherina returned to her room in a fury. Ever since Eleanor returned, her life had been nothing but trouble. Now, even her younger brother, who had been her close companion since childhood, seemed to be slipping away from her. Overwhelmed by the recent series of unfortunate events, she burst into tears. Just then, Amelia entered Catherina's room and saw her daughter's tear-streaked face. Concerned, she asked, "Catherina, what's wrong? Are you feeling unwell? Why are you crying?" Seeing her mother, Catherina cried even harder. "Mom, will you always be there for me?" "Don't be silly. I've told you many times, that you'll always be my daughter. No one will ever change your place in this family," Amelia reassured her, stepping forward to hug her sobbing daughter. Hearing these words, Catherina felt a bit of her distress ease. Once Catherina had calmed down, Amelia said seriously, "Catherina, I have something important to tell you. I just came back from the ancestral house. Your grandparen