Ashlyn set her glass aside and leaned in, eager to share her experiences with Katelyn.
“When I was a child, my grandmother and I would spend hours picking mushrooms in the peony woods. It was one of the best times of my life. If you ever get the chance, I’d love to take you there to see it.”
Katelyn’s surprise deepened. Ashlyn was speaking so freely about her childhood. Wait—so she really wasn’t Sophia?
Katelyn, still trying to piece things together, asked with genuine curiosity, “Isn’t your family known for jewelry? What made you go mushroom hunting?”
Daughters from high-status families were usually prepared for more refined, polished activities. Mushroom foraging didn’t seem to fit with the image of an heiress from the Marshall family.
Ashlyn appeared lost in thought for a moment. Her smile faded, and she let out a gentle sigh.
“When my father was younger, he betrayed my mother. In her anger, my mother took me back to her family, where we stayed for more than six months.” She paused, gathering her thoughts before she spoke again.
“My grandmother’s…”
Side of the family were herders, so mushroom foraging was just a part of life for us.” In that brief exchange, Katelyn could already tell how strong Ashlyn’s mother must have been. The clash of social status was always a struggle in high society, something Katelyn’s father’s betrayal had made painfully clear.
Katelyn quickly apologized.
“I’m so sorry.”
Ashlyn waved it off with a shrug.
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“It’s alright. Those times are long gone.”
In the cutthroat world of the Marshall family, Ashlyn knew she had to shine in the upcoming jewelry competition to earn her place and make her voice heard.
Alfy listened intently, his eyes filled with sympathy.
“I had no idea you went through something so painful. It seems like everyone carries their burdens.”
At those words, Katelyn reached out and lightly tapped Alfy on the head, teasing.
“You’re not one of those who have struggles.”
Though Katelyn had never met Alfy’s uncle, she was well aware of how much he adored Alfy, treating him like a little princess. Being raised with such love and attention had given Alfy the freedom to live without worry.
Alfy grabbed his head, making an exaggerated grimace.
“Katelyn, you’re hurting me.”
Katelyn knew she hadn’t been rough enough for it to cause pain. Still, Alfy’s playful act brought a smile to both Ashlyn’s and Katelyn’s faces, easing the atmosphere.
After a long swim, Alfy was overcome with drowsiness. Fresh from her shower, she draped herself in a bathrobe and rested her head on Katelyn’s shoulder, barely awake.
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