“Mother, Priscilla, meet Raya, my mate.” I held my breath as Micah introduced me, my hands tightly wound in his as I observed them.

His sister, Priscilla—it was disappointing that someone so bitter had a beautiful name—had a permanent scowl on her face, and her gaze was fixed on her brother, deciding to ignore my existence.

However, his mother, bless her, was sporting the most lip-tearing smile, beaming at me like I was a prized jewel.

I hadn’t realized I had been holding my breath until relief flooded me, my lungs finally remembering how to work.

“Raya, child, come give me a hug.” His mother beckoned to me, her voice...