Isabella hurried over with a bright smile.
"Sister!"
Before Loretta could react, Isabella wrapped her in a warm embrace.
"I am truly glad you are okay," she said softly, her eyes already glistening with tears. "When I saw you today, I almost thought I was dreaming."
Loretta's body stiffened for a brief moment. She instinctively frowned but quickly hid her displeasure. She gently patted Isabella's back before withdrawing her hands. She reminded herself that after today, she and the Gladstone family would be done.
"I'm fine now," she replied calmly.
Isabella seemed not to notice the distance in Loretta's voice. Instead, she smiled even more brightly. "That's wonderful to hear," she paused before adding, "Congratulations, Sister."
"Thank you," Loretta answered politely.
By then, Mr. and Mrs. Gladstone had also walked over. Mr. Gladstone smiled warmly.
"Congratulations, dear."
