Debraâs POV:
Relief washed over me as Rileyâs demeanor softened, a weight lifting from my shoulders.
Fortunately, Riley wasnât one to turn a deaf ear, and I was grateful for that.
I couldnât imagine what I would have done otherwise.
With a quiet cheer to myself, I resolved to focus on what mattered to Riley.
In moments like these, I knew I needed to speak to her heart, to underscore the significance of those she cared for.
So I pressed on, my tone gentle yet firm.
âRiley, if you remain here, Lucaâs world shrinks.
School, friendships, and the simple joys of childhood-all denied to him.
He deserves a chance to lead a normal life.
With his father absent and his mother incarcerated, his future hangs precariously in the balance.
How can we ensure he thrives? Think of the ridicule heâll endure, the neglect heâll face from his peers.
Itâs not just about academics; his very essence, his personality will be seriously affected.
â
Riley bit her lip as she fought to contain her emotions, her hands trembling with the weight of the decision before her.
It was evident that hesitation clouded her thoughts.
Suppressing any hint of triumph, I maintained a solemn expression.
I clung to the hope that by emphasizing what mattered most to Riley, perhaps it would be sufficient.
Suppressing the excitement in my chest, I maintained my solemn demeanor and continued, âMoreover, if left unchecked, the path ahead for the Roz District seems dire.
Maybe theyâll face eviction.
â
Rileyâs distress was palpable now, her desperation evident.
Anxiety laced her voice as she pleaded, âPlease, donât let this happen! Whatever punishment awaits me, Iâll accept it willingly, but you cannot evict them.
â
Tears glistened in Rileyâs eyes, her anguish raw and unguarded.
âDebra, the people of Roz Town put their trust in us.
They left behind their homes and came here because they believed in our vision for a brighter future.
How could we evict them so easily? Without the Thorn Edge Packâs protection, where will they go?â
With a knowing smile, I seized the moment.
âSince youâve expressed willingness to accept any punishment, let your penance be the diligent management of the Roz District.
Ensure that peace prevails and no turmoil disrupts its tranquility again.
â
Riley lapsed into silence.
She knew I was there for her; her tears whispered the gratitude she couldnât voice.
After a moment, she lifted her gaze, her voice choked with emotion.
âThank you, Debra.
Iâm ready to accept this punishment.
â
âFantastic! Relief flooded me; no longer did I need to mask my emotions.
I embraced Riley, joy bubbling within me.
âRiley, welcome back!â
Riley remained silent but nodded, her eyes rimmed with red.
I wiped away her tears, sincerity in my words.
âRiley, please donât blame yourself any longer.
Youâve done nothing wrong.
The Roz District needs you, Luca needs you, and I need you.
Youâre incredibly important to us.
â
Finally, Riley couldnât contain her emotions any longer; tears cascaded down her cheeks as she cried unabashedly, releasing all the pent-up guilt and uncertainty.
âThank you, Debra!â Amidst her tears, Riley expressed her gratitude.