Chapter 77 The Poor Mila
She stepped back slightly but kept her hands gently on Addison’s arms, her eyes shining with fondness.
"I’m Mila—your cousin. We were very close as children and treated each other like sisters. You even used to protect me when we were growing up," she added with a soft chuckle.
As Mila finally released her, there was a spark of hope and longing in her eyes—clearly waiting, perhaps even yearning, for some flicker of recognition in Addison’s expression.
Seeing this, Addison felt a sense of relief wash over her. It reassured her that her first impression of Mila might truly have been right. Pushing aside the strange ache in her heart, she returned the hug and offered Mila a warm, sincere smile.
"Hello, Mila. I’m Addison. Thank you... for staying by my parents’ side all these years."
Her words were genuine, and her smile reflected her heartfelt gratitude. The Alpha King and Queen, watching the exchange, felt their anxiety melt away. Relief softened their expressions as they saw no trace of resentment in their daughter’s face.
Mila smiled sweetly, though her eyes shimmered with emotion. "No, no—please don’t thank me, Addison. I’ve long seen the Alpha King and Queen as my own parents. They’ve treated me with more kindness and care than I ever received from my birth family, and being with them when they needed someone... it felt only right."
Her voice wavered slightly, and she looked a little flustered, almost on the verge of tears as she lowered her gaze.
"And if... if you feel uncomfortable—like I might have usurped your place these past six years—I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention. I’m more than willing to step aside and return everything to you."