Victoria's Surprise

Lily Evans POV

The coffee cup slipped from Lily's hands, falling to the floor and sending hot liquid everywhere. Emma jumped back with a startled cry as the ceramic pieces scattered across the café floor.

"Mommy!" Emma grabbed Lily's arm, her little face scared.

Lily's heart hammered in her chest as she stared at the person who had just walked through the door. Victoria Stone stood there in perfect makeup and expensive clothes, but something was different about her face. She looked... tired. Sad, even.

"I'm so sorry," Lily whispered to the café owner, dropping to her knees to pick up the broken bits. Her hands shook as she gathered the sharp pieces.

Victoria walked over slowly, her high heels clicking on the wooden floor. "Let me help," she said quietly, kneeling down beside Lily.

"You don't have to—" Lily started, but Victoria was already picking up pieces of the broken cup.