Chapter 9

Mrs. Caldwell began to speak.

Asher indeed had a sister before, named Hazel Caldwell. She was the daughter of his father's younger brother.

At that time, Asher's father and his uncle and aunt passed away young in an accident, and the family suddenly lost half its foundation.

The entire burden of the Caldwell family fell solely on Mrs. Caldwell's shoulders.

Hazel was left without care, so Mrs. Caldwell simply took her into their home, raising her like her own daughter.

Those few years, the Caldwells had a tough time. With their pillar gone, the Caldwells were like an unlocked money bag; everyone wanted to grab a share. Mrs. Caldwell had to harden her heart, acting decisively when needed, becoming increasingly assertive, and thus offending many.

Four years ago, their two children were kidnapped.

The kidnappers laid hands on Asher, and six-year-old Hazel, seeing this, immediately pounced.

She bit down hard on the person's hand, refusing to let go.

The kidnapper went mad with rage, swinging a stick, hitting her head repeatedly…

Asher witnessed the entire scene.

After they were rescued, he changed. He never smiled again, nor did he speak another word.

Mrs. Caldwell tried every possible method, but nothing worked. Left with no other options, she took an old friend's advice and brought another "sister" home.

Hoping to see if she could thaw the ice in his heart a little.

Mrs. Caldwell stood up and slowly walked to the window. She said I wasn't actually the first girl brought into this family.

"Asher has never been this close to anyone. He truly feels differently about you."