Qamara and Enania fell silent. But before Gloria could continue, a voice came from the gangplank.
"Gloria!"
Gloria let out an exhale the moment she heard it. She glanced toward the gangplank and saw her mother come running toward her. Genevieve crashed into her, wrapping her arms around her tightly and pressing her cheek against her daughter's shoulder.
"Mm~ I missed my baby girl~"
She tilted her head up and smiled.
"So? How is my baby girl doing? Are you healthy? Are you eating properly? Are they treating you well here?"
Gloria let out a long, weary exhale.
"Yes, Mom. You can see for yourself. I'm standing right here. In your arms. Very much alive and well."
She glanced around.
"Where's Father?"
Genevieve puffed her cheek and pulled back from the hug. She crossed her arms and turned her head to the side.
"Hmph! How should I know? He's probably still on the ship, doing whatever he wants. I don't care. I'm not his keeper."
