Chapter 10

“I’m sorry I couldn’t be there to collect you myself, as I’d promised Merrin,” Joan sighed, and it was clear she held deep regret.

“I understand. It’s not every day you’re asked to drop everything to help a runaway.” I shrugged.

“Oh, my dear, from what I’ve heard you’re much more than a runaway.” Joan looked at me with a sympathetic expression. “I’ve heard a lot about you from Merrin and my granddaughter.”

“Granddaughter?” I was confused at that.

“Yes, I’m pretty sure you know her. Zoe Johnson.” Joan smiled as though she knew exactly what she was saying.

“Zoe is your granddaughter?” I gasped.

Suddenly so much made sense. That was why Mathew’s face had seemed so familiar. He had the same dark hair and almond-shaped eyes.

Now that I looked closer at Joan, I began to realise where they got their family resemblance.

“Yes, Zoe is my daughter’s girl,” Joan said with a proud smile. “Although she’s really more my girl. I practically raised her.”