Chapter 1365 +25 BONUS

Aurora genuinely liked Diana’s personality, and the two of them seemed to share a natural connection. The thought made her smile even brighter.

Edward and Diana had already been pleased with Aurora, but during the meal they realized her character was even better than they’d imagined. Their approval of her only grew deeper.

After dinner, when Lucas checked the time, he suggested it was about time for them to head back.

But Diana, reluctant to part, held Aurora’s hand, her eyes misting over. “Can’t you stay just one more night?”

“But I have work tomorrow…”

Aurora’s heart twisted at the sight of Diana’s expression. She hadn’t expected to feel this way before, but now that there was a bond, now that someone cared so warmly for her, she found it hard to leave.

Diana understood Aurora had work, but it was hard for her to let go of such a lovely girl, especially one she connected with so easily in conversation.

“Then when will you come again?” she asked, unable to hide her eagerness.

Aurora couldn’t give a definite answer, but seeing Diana’s reluctant face, she couldn’t bring herself to say anything that would dampen the mood.

Edward stepped in to ease things. “Alright, the kids are grown now, and they have their own lives. As parents, the most important thing is learning how to let go.”

Diana reluctantly nodded, though she still clung to Aurora’s hand, unwilling to release her.

Lucas rubbed his forehead helplessly. “Is this really necessary? It’s not like we won’t come back.”

Aurora shot him a look, then gently reassured Diana. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll definitely come again when I’m free. I really enjoy spending time with you too–it makes me feel relaxed and happy.”

Those words made Diana’s face brighten at once.

“Hearing you say that puts me at ease. Looks like today wasn’t in vain after all.”

“How could it be?” Aurora smiled.

Aurora stepped forward and wrapped Diana in a big hug.

Leaning close to her ear, she whispered, “Mom, you’ve been so good to me, even better than my own mother. If I could, I’d love to be your daughter and stay by your side always.”

Those words struck Diana deeply, and her eyes filled with tears. When Aurora let go, she quickly turned her head to wipe at the shimmering drops at the corners of her eyes.

Edward was taken aback.

He knew his wife was never the sentimental type–she’d always been strong, almost larger than life, open and straightforward with everyone. Even on their wedding day, she hadn’t shed a single tear.

And now, faced with Aurora, she was actually crying. Was this what it meant when emotions ran too deep to hold back? The thought almost made him laugh.

He quickly spoke up. “Why don’t you just stay the night? Lucas can drive you back tomorrow morning.”

“Yes, yes, stay the night,” Diana added immediately, her eyes lighting up with hope. It was the first time Aurora had seen such an intense reaction from her.

But Aurora hesitated.

It didn’t feel quite right. Lucas was already busy enough, and the estate was so far from the city. Wouldn’t going back and forth just make things harder on him?