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Seeing Aunt Joana stare at her with a mix of bewilderment and unease left Elena puzzled.

Her question had been simple, but it seemed to stir something deeper.

"Is something wrong?" she asked gently.

Aunt Joana let out a quiet sigh.

"No… I was just caught off guard by your eyes. They're exactly like my son's."

Elena's expression softened, but a flicker of curiosity lit her eyes.

Aunt Joana then continued, "I'm not originally from this city. We used to live in City G. My husband was recently transferred to Military A—but ever since the disaster started, he hasn't returned."

Elena's brows knitted together slightly.

'Could her husband be… related to me somehow?'

Keeping her voice calm, she decided to probe a little further.

"Let me know his name—maybe I can ask someone at the military base for you," Elena offered gently.