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~Thorne's POV
I felt my face heat up even more, and I glanced at Elara. She met my eyes and gave me a small nod, her expression teasing but kind.
Seraphine's eyes softened again, and she shook her head. "Ah… I suppose I shouldn't scold you both too much. It's just… It's been too long. I've missed seeing you, and now, to hear your excuses…" She laughed again, the sound light and musical. "Alright, enough teasing. Let's eat, drink, and talk properly. I want to hear everything you've been through."
We ate in silence, letting the food settle and the quiet of the morning surround us. Then, I took a deep breath, my eyes meeting Seraphine's, and I spoke, my voice soft but steady.
"Mother… I…" I paused, swallowed hard, then said it fully, "I'm sorry. I should have called you mother sooner."
Her eyes widened, and for a moment, she looked stunned, as if she hadn't expected those words. Then, slowly, she nodded, tears brimming in her eyes.
