Daisy immediately bowed her head, forcing a smile at the older couple before her.
"Good evening, Mr. and Mrs. Williams…" Her voice wavered, polite but small.
Aurora's mother, wiping her hands on her apron, tilted her head with a kind smile. "Ah, it's been a while, Daisy. Look at you… still as beautiful as ever." She stepped closer and clasped Daisy's hand warmly. "You don't have to greet us so formally, dear. You're practically family."
Aurora's father lowered his glasses, his stern face softening the moment his eyes met Daisy's. "You've been keeping our girl company all these years. For that, we're grateful." He gave a small nod of approval. "It's good to see you again."
The words made Daisy's throat tighten. She bowed quickly, hiding the sheen in her eyes.
Aurora bumped her shoulder playfully. "See? I told you they like you better than me."
Her mother swatted Aurora lightly with the dish towel, laughing. "Nonsense. We love you both the same."
