Finding a way to survive under such a heavy atmosphere was undoubtedly challenging.
“But Jack quickly noticed her movements, tightening his control over her and even threatening your safety.”
At this point, Mr. Fraser’s voice grew somber again, and the air felt thick with oppression.
“I can’t imagine the pressure and fear Hilda endured during that time. Yet, she never gave up. She was always looking for a way to escape that prison.”
Mr. Fraser’s words left me feeling suffocated. I didn’t know how to process my emotions. I closed my eyes, picturing my mother’s frail figure as she trudged through the endless darkness alone.
“Eventually, the evidence found its way into my hands, but your mother disappeared suddenly. Yet before she left, she spoke to me at length.”
Everything felt too strange. I suspected my mother had discovered Jack’s true colors, putting her in grave danger.
“Hilda did everything to ensure you could live peacefully, even trying to improve your life, which is why I never disturbed you.”
I took a deep breath, striving to calm my swirling emotions. My mother’s resilience and sacrifice weighed heavily on my chest, both a burden and a source of strength.
Her love was profound and great. Even in the darkest times, it never extinguished her hopes for my future.
“Did she leave any message for me?” My voice caught in my throat, almost unable to continue.
He nodded gently, a hint of tenderness in his gaze. “She said that no matter how cruel the world may be, you should always be kind and maintain your purity within. Capture the beauty of life with your paintbrush. That is the most precious legacy she left for you.” He continued, “She also told me that if one day you discovered the truth, she hoped you would face it bravely rather than let hatred consume you.”
I closed my eyes, tears streaming silently down my cheeks.
Her words felt like a warm spring breeze, brushing against the coldest corners of my heart and offering a measure of solace.
But I quickly composed myself.
Grandma’s death was tied to Jack.
Even my mother, whom I had never
met, had a connection to him
He was undoubtedly one of the closest people to me, yet he had harmed the most important people in my life.
I took a deep breath, temporarily
suppressing the anger and
resentment swirling within me
Rationality told me this was not the time to break down.
What I needed to do was to keep moving forward, seek justice for my mother, and pave the way for my future.
“So, what should I do next?” My voice was calm, but each word resonated with determination.
From that moment on, I knew that I was no longer the little girl who harbored fantasies about her father. I was becoming a warrior ready to fight for my mother and for myself.
Mr. Fraser looked at me with a glimmer of approval in his eyes. “First, you need to ensure your safety.”
He retrieved a velvet box as he spoke, revealing something hidden inside.
When he placed the item in my hands, I was taken aback.
I hadn’t expected him to provide me with all the evidence. It seemed he also hoped I would bring Jack to justice.
“Do what you want to do. Be your true self, and don’t let anything hold you back.”