Vera sincerely hoped Ian Lockwood could find a better woman to be by his side, so he wouldn't be so lonely.
She always felt as if Ian was waiting just behind her, a feeling that burdened Vera with a heavy sense of guilt. That was why Ian had to find his own happiness.
Ian Lockwood smiled. "Vera, if my words are a burden to you, that's what would truly make me sad. We're confidantes and close friends, like family. You need to get used to family being good to you."
Vera froze for a moment, her eyes welling up with tears as she looked at him. She repeated his words.
"We're confidantes, close friends, and family."
"Exactly. Would you feel guilty toward your family? If not, then you don't need to feel any guilt toward me either. That's the best way for us to be."
Ian's voice was rich and pleasant, leaving Vera with no room for rebuttal. She could only nod in response.
"Ian, you're right. We're family."
