Nancy stood her ground, shoulders straight, expression unshaken. "I don't think he was ever a bad person," she continued, voice unwavering. "So saying that he learned from his mistake.. that's a wrong statement to give."
"Nancy" Arabella turned toward her daughter quickly, her tone sharp, a warning edge in her voice as she tried to stop her before she said too much. She didn't want her child to sound disrespectful, especially not toward Merisa of all people.
But before she could say anything else, Merisa raised a hand slightly, stopping her.
"No, let her be," Merisa said gently, her tone calm and oddly understanding. "For her… after all, he's a good person. I'm happy she's standing up for him."
She placed a light hand on Arabella's shoulder, smiling faintly. Her eyes, however, betrayed a flicker of emotion.. pain mixed with pride.
