Betrayed by fate

26- Nico

ʜᴇʟʟᴏ ɪ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴀᴅᴅ, ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴀʙʏs ɴᴀᴍᴇ ɪs ᴀsʜ.

As I crept away in the dead of night, clutching baby Ash close to my chest, I couldn't help but feel a mix of fear and excitement coursing through my veins. It was a risky decision, leaving behind the safety of Letum's Palace, but I knew deep down that it was the right choice for us.

As we made our way through the unfamiliar streets of the human world, I couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between this bustling, noisy place and the tranquil beauty of the estate we had once called home. The sounds of cart horns blaring and people rushing by filled the air, overwhelming my senses.

But hunger gnawed at my stomach, reminding me of our immediate need for nourishment. Spotting a small bakery nearby, the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the air, I knew that was where we needed to go.

Pushing open the door, a wave of warmth and the delicious aroma of various pastries greeted me. My mouth watered as I scanned the display case, my eyes landing on a crusty loaf of bread that looked particularly enticing.

"Excuse me, ma'am," I mustered up the courage to speak to the kind-looking woman behind the counter. "Could I please have a loaf of bread?"

Her smile was gentle as she handed me the bread, noticing the weariness in my eyes. "Of course, dear. And take these pastries too. A little treat for you and the little one."

Tears pricked my eyes at her generosity as I thanked her profusely. With a grateful nod, I left the bakery, clutching the bread and pastries tightly. It was then that I heard a familiar voice calling out my name.

Turning around, my heart nearly stopped as I saw my brother standing before me, a surprised expression on his face. "Amity? Is that really you?"

Tears of joy streamed down my face as I embraced him tightly, overwhelmed with relief and happiness. "Yes, it's me, dear Nico! I've missed you so much."

He returned the hug hesitantly, his shyness still evident. "I've missed you too."

Through a series of exchanged words, I learned that my brother had found comfort at High Lady Emily's Estate, just as he told me, two years ago. He had grown even closer to Lady Emily.

"It's a miracle that we've found each other again," I whispered, wiping away my tears.

He nodded, a small smile gracing his lips. "Indeed, it is. And I know Lady Emily will welcome you with open arms. Come, let's go back to the estate together."

I nodded in agreement, following him along the dirt path.