Chapter 202

Harrison paused for a moment, then nodded. “Alright.”
They walked into the cemetery together. When Anastasia finally found her mother’s grave, the instant her eyes landed on the cold stone and the black-and- white photograph set into it, an ache bloomed sharp and sudden in her chest.
In her previous life, back when she was still in Fairhaven, she made a point of visiting her mother every year. But after she moved to Riverton, she never had the chance to return.
Now, standing here again, it felt like she’d crossed centuries rather than years. Her mother’s face had grown hazy in her memory-until this moment, as she stood once more before the grave.
The photo on the headstone showed a beautiful woman, her gaze gentle yet resolute, looking out as if she still watched over the world.
This was Cecilia. Her mother.
More than a decade ago, Cecilia had been the cherished eldest daughter of the Brennan family—a mysterious healer renowned throughout Veridia, a legendary beauty pursued by countless admirers.
When she was young, people would speculate about what sort of extraordinary man might one day win her heart.
No one could have guessed that, in the end, she’d marry Gabriel-a man so ordinary, his name barely registered with anyone.
And this remarkable healer, this celebrated beauty, had followed her humble husband into a quiet, ordinary life-content to play the roles of wife and mother, far from the spotlight.
“Mom, I’m here.”
-I’ve come home.
As soon as the words left her lips, Anastasia’s tears spilled over.
Dying once and then being given a second chance had convinced her that souls truly exist.
If her mother knew how foolish and miserable she’d been in her past life, would she be disappointed? Would her heart break? Thɪs chapter is updated by.net
The thought stung. How could she have trusted Nora and Penelope Sterling-let them manipulate her for so many years? There was no greater folly.
“Don’t cry.” The man beside her spoke suddenly, his voice threaded with a faint sigh.
His long, elegant fingers cupped her cheek; he pressed a handkerchief gently to her face, dabbing away the tears.
Anastasia’s clenched fist relaxed a little. She turned to meet his deep, steady gaze, her mouth quivering before she leaned into his embrace, seeking comfort.
Her tears stained his expensive suit, but Harrison Lancaster-who was known for his almost obsessive neatness-merely paused. He didn’t push her away.
A fleeting, almost imperceptible softness crossed his usually stern features-an exasperated indulgence even he didn’t seem to notice.
When her emotions finally settled, embarrassment crept in.
Her nose was red. She snuck a glance at him, guilt flickering in her eyes, then grabbed his hand and, in a playful tone, spoke to the woman in the photograph: “Mom, this is my husband. Remember him? You picked him out for me, you know. I brought him here today so you two could meet.”
Harrison glanced at the headstone as well. After a moment, he knelt and helped burn offerings-paying his respects as Anastasia’s husband.
His gaze on Cecilia’s photo was calm, unreadable. Whatever had happened in the past, he was grateful to the woman who brought Anastasia into his life.
Standing a little behind them, Gabriel watched, startled and delighted. He shot Anastasia a covert, excited look. Clearly, his daughter held a special place in Mr. Harrison Lancaster’s heart.
They stayed another half hour before leaving the cemetery.
As they reached the foot of the hill, Anastasia spotted Nora waiting for her.
Their eyes met. Nora didn’t bother with pretenses anymore; her glare was
venomous.
Anastasia paused, face calm, and looked up at Harrison. “Honey, I’ll be right back.”
Harrison’s gaze swept over Nora with an icy warning, but he let go of Anastasia’s hand. “Go ahead.”
Anastasia walked toward Nora-