CHAPTER 109: Shadows of the Past

　　Isabelle took a steadying breath with a distant gaze as though she could see the past unfolding in front of her. Emotions tugged at her heart and for a moment, she hesitated. But when she looked up, she saw Elizabeth's eyes, full of warmth and trust, waiting intently. Her daughter's comfort and anticipation were all the encouragement she needed.

　　"It all began with the Thomas family, their influence, their power… They were capable of the most ruthless things to protect their name. When I first met them, I had no idea of the lengths they would go to in order to control everyone around them. Least of all, me." Isabelle finally said, her voice quiet yet intense.

　　Isabelle's voice trembled as she recalled the bitterness of those days and the fear that had followed her for so long.

　　"The Thomas family held a certain kind of prestige. People admired them, respected them, even feared them and they had secrets they would protect at any cost." Isabelle added.