“Vania, Mother wants to meet you.”

Arga’s tone was calm but serious.

The words made Vania freeze in her seat. Her hand, which had been holding a teacup, began to tremble slightly.

She looked up, eyes widening.

“Meet… your mother?” Her voice cracked. “Why, Arga?”

Arga exhaled slowly and sat across from her.

“She knows about us. And… she wants to talk to you herself. She said she wants to hear everything from our side.”

Vania lowered her gaze, her lips trembling. “Or maybe she just wants to judge me — or punish me.”

“Vania.” Arga reached for her hand, his voice gentle but firm. “I know this is hard,...