As Aurora’s mother, Tina knew exactly how stubborn her daughter could be. That unyielding nature clearly came from her own bloodline.
“Mom, I don’t want you to bear the burden of everything anymore. I’ll put an end to the R family and create a new one. But before that, I’ll clear away every obstacle in my path.” Aurora’s face was resolute, her words sharp and decisive.
She’d once thought that everything she’d been through was just the result of unfortunate accidents. But now, she knew better-those weren’t accidents. Someone had tried to kill her and her child, and they might strike again. Aurora wouldn’t allow any threats to remain, neither for herself nor her child.
“And what about Julian?” Tina asked.
“Even if he loses his memory, I believe I’ll fall in love with him all over again. I made a bet with Grandpa Bramwell-my love is the wager.”
“You’re impossible, child. I don’t even know what to say anymore.” Tina pulled Aurora into her arms.
“Mom, I’m doing this for a better future. The family’s rules have existed for so many years-I can’t just ignore them. But I also don’t want you to keep suffering. If I want to have it all, I must pay the price. If I win, I’ll eliminate the filth within the family and be with Julian. Why not take the chance?”
Tina shook her head. “Since it’s a gamble, there’s always a chance of losing. Are you certain you’ll still love Julian when the time comes? What if you don’t? Or worse-what if you fall in love with someone else? Then you’ll lose everything.”
“I trust Julian, and I trust myself-because of love.” Aurora had always wondered: If she’d met someone else first, would she have fallen for them just as deeply? The answer to that question was something she and Julian would discover together. She believed that, in the near future, she would wear a white wedding dress and become his bride.
“I think it’s not just the family you’re reshuffling, but your entire life,” Tina remarked.
“Mom, leave the family matters to me. In three months, I’ll make sure Mio is gone from the family.” Aurora gently touched her stomach.
She was almost three months pregnant, but her belly wasn’t showing much yet. In another three months, it would begin to grow. So, she gave herself three months to clean things up and then focus on her pregnancy.
“I’ve never doubted your abilities. Just remember to take care of yourself and not push beyond your limits. Don’t forget-you have a child now.” Seeing Aurora’s confidence, Tina felt less worried than before.
She knew better than anyone about the love between Aurora and Julian. Although the gamble was risky and required immense trust, it was clear: if either of them faltered, their love would be the sacrifice. But Aurora believed in Julian, just as she believed in herself. She was certain neither of them would let the other down. If they won, the rewards would be immense, and they’d be free of trouble for the rest of their lives.
“Mom, I’ll be careful. You don’t need to worry about anyone else anymore. Just focus on taking care of yourself.”
“Aurora, it’s my fault. I didn’t protect you well enough.”
“Don’t say that. You’ve done wonderfully. You’re the best mom in the world. I’ve never regretted being your daughter.”
Who wouldn’t be moved by words like that? Tina had once faked her death and later refused to acknowledge Aurora. And yet, Aurora didn’t hold a single grudge against her.
“Mom, can we keep this from Julian for now? I’m afraid if he finds out, he won’t agree to it.”
“You’re planning to act first and explain later?” Tina frowned. This was something Aurora should discuss with Julian herself, but apparently, Aurora had other plans.
“Mom, everyone has their own selfishness. I have mine, and Julian has his. His selfishness is to protect me no matter what, to ensure I’m never hurt.”
“And even knowing how much he cares for you, you still insist on going your own way?”
“I have no choice. This is something I must do. I can’t let you keep bearing the responsibilities that should be mine. When I was unwell, Julian kept everything from me, even secretly contacting you. He knew how poor your health was and still didn’t tell me. I understand he did it for my sake, but it robbed me of the chance to fulfill my duty as your daughter. Mom, if Julian finds out about my plan, he’ll never let me go. Please, don’t tell him, okay?” Aurora clasped Tina’s hands, pleading.
“Julian is truly devoted to you. Even if he hid things from you in the past, don’t hold it against him. Since you’ve already made up your mind, I won’t say anything. But I still hope you’ll think it through-this may not be the only way.”
“If I don’t take this path, then it’ll be you who has to walk it. I don’t want you to suffer anymore. Mom, don’t try to persuade me. My mind is made up.”
This mother and daughter shared the same stubbornness, yet their stubbornness was born from love for one another, not for their own benefit.
“Alright, alright. I won’t say anything. Will that satisfy you?” Tina sighed, recalling John Walsh’s words: “Children must walk their own paths.” There was no point in interfering.
Aurora’s return meant one thing: Tina could finally see her daughter often, no longer relying on videos or internet photos.
“Oh, Mom, this is my lucky bracelet. Your health isn’t great right now, so I hope it can bring you some good fortune too.” Aurora removed the red jade bracelet from her wrist.
She’d been wearing long sleeves, so the bracelet had been hidden. Now that she took it off, the vibrant red of the jade gleamed brilliantly.
“Red jade?” Tina examined the material. It was indeed red jade, but its luster was unparalleled, like fresh blood just spilled.
“Yes, I bought it on a whim and instantly loved it. I’ve always felt it brought me luck. Mom, your health is more important. I hope this bracelet brings you good fortune and helps you recover soon,” Aurora said with a smile.
She couldn’t tell if it was just her imagination, but ever since that night at Mr. Raymond’s villa, she’d overheard someone mention her inability to conceive. At the time, she thought she was dreaming. But now, hearing Tina confirm it, Aurora realized everything Julian had done-making her drink herbal medicine-had led to this unexpected pregnancy.
During her time in Rome, Aurora hadn’t been consistent with the herbal treatments. Yet, she conceived shortly after acquiring this bracelet. Even when she fell into the freezing sea without knowing she was pregnant, she and the baby remained unharmed. Despite the cold and the danger, neither her body nor the child suffered any harm. The subsequent medical check confirmed she was in excellent health.
Perhaps it was sheer luck-or perhaps the bracelet truly brought her fortune. Either way, Aurora believed it was her talisman.