"Oh, dear," Azalea murmured, patting Leia's head with a gentle hand. "Don't carry the burden of your father's mistakes. They aren't yours to bear."
Leia sniffled, then leaned forward, wrapping her arms tightly around the old woman. "Grandma, I want to feel free… but I can't help the hurt. It just weighs on me." Pulling back, she quickly wiped her tears away with the backs of her palms, embarrassed to let them linger. "I didn't mean to upset you too, Grandma. Would you like some almond walnut cake? I was thinking of baking one."
Azalea's wrinkled lips curved into a soft smile. "Why not? If baking makes your heart lighter, then you should do it."
Just then, Kieran strode into the living room, his brows knit. "Leia, you left in such a hurry, you didn't even wait for me. Are you alright?" he asked, his tone carrying more concern than his words admitted.
