Madelyn repeated, "Thank you."

As Madelyn approached, the bodyguard who had been blocking Mya stepped aside. Mya eagerly embraced Madelyn, causing her to stagger. She pressed her face against Madelyn's shoulder, sobbing loudly.

"You were gone for so long, and you didn't even contact me. Did you know I almost died?" Mya asked, her voice serious.

Madelyn's gaze landed on the dark bruises on Mya's neck and back. Blake had filled her in. "I'm so sorry, Mya," Madelyn whispered, her voice laden with regret. "I wish I'd been here sooner."

Mya shook her head gently, "You're here now, and that's what matters. Plus, you brought gifts. I've forgiven you."

"Promise me you'll be careful. Don't let anyone hurt you."

"I promise. With you here, I feel protected."

The Harper family sponsored Luke for school because he did not have much money. When Mya ran into him at Ventropolis University, it was by accident. In college, when bullies picked on Luke, Mya defended him. From then on, Luke cared a