Chapter Eighty - Two

Karina managed to get over her surprise and relieve herself from feeling awkward as she embraced Lilly in return.

As she engaged in conversation with Lilly, she introduced her to Sophie, and the two girls exchanged pleasantries.

Anita, though not entirely pleased with Lilly's affection towards Karina, masked her emotions with a smile as she observed them. "Lilly, come sit next to me, dear," she suggested, but Lilly declined, opting to sit beside her new friend Sophie instead.

Exchanging a smile with Sophie, Lilly sat on the seat next to her. Anita forced a smile, accepting the situation. She remained composed, taking her seat at the table.

Juliana, noticing the interaction between her granddaughter and Sophie, chimed in, "It's nice to see Lilly with a friend her age. She doesn't often have visitors her own age."

Karina nodded in understanding, though she couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss with Lilly.

As they began to eat, Karina's concern grew as she noticed Lilly's