Noticing Sylvia's serious expression, Seraphine smiled warmly. "Are you feeling frightened?"

Sylvia nodded. "Yes, I am scared. We are, after all, dealing with the Hernandez family. But what good does fear do? Can we simply avoid them because we are afraid?

"Eric is my husband, and they say that people often drift apart in challenging times. But for him and me, that won't happen. If that day comes, I will choose to face it with him."

Seraphine gazed at Sylvia with admiration. "Eric had a tough childhood but is fortunate to have found you. My aunt always spoke highly of your virtue, and now I see it for myself."

Sylvia smiled, never considering herself virtuous. She used to be distant, but Eric had changed her.

"Don't worry," Seraphine assured. "Aunt Grace has made some arrangements. Even if the Hernandez family learns of Eric's presence here, they won't have an immediate opportunity to pursue him."

"Why?" Sylvia asked, perplexed.

Seraphine smiled faintly. "Aunt Grace knew that th