Chapter 2 THE CEDRIC FAMILY WELCOME

"Last night was a dress emergency, but I'm thrilled to report that this one made it out alive," Hazel muttered, gazing at her shoes. She needed to ensure her appearance wasn't the reason she missed her chance at getting a job.

Hazel, the self-proclaimed "I can do it myself" girl, was a self-starter who tackled challenges head-on, even when the path ahead was unclear. As the first of five children, she had learned to be independent. Her parents' separation after her birth had left her living with her grandmother, who had become her primary caregiver.

When Logan first brought Aurora to meet his family, they were immediately smitten. Aurora was the epitome of perfection – a stunning beauty with alabaster skin, a voluptuous figure, and piercing eyes that sparkled like diamonds in the light. Her classic features, including high cheekbones and full lips, commanded attention.

Everyone was enamored with Aurora, except for Mrs. Cedric, who couldn't stop smiling at her. What hadn't Mrs. Cedric done that day? She had spoon-fed Aurora, shared stories about the late Mr. Cedric, nicknamed her "sunshine," and even shared Logan's embarrassing moments.

"Sunshine, please let her stay with me," Mrs. Cedric pleaded, her voice trembling with emotion. "You can trust me with her, can't you? I'll never understand why Logan made this decision, but I know that no other woman he brings to me can ever take your place. You'll always be my sunshine and my favorite daughter-in-law. And because you've brought forth this little angel, all the love I have to give will go to her. I'll groom her, nurture her, care for her, and teach her how to care for you."

Aurora hugged Mrs. Cedric warmly, trying to comfort her. "Mom, please stop crying. Hazel shouldn't see you this way."

"I can trust you with my life, and Hazel is my life," Aurora replied. "I'm sure no one else will take care of her better than you. I'll leave her with you. Don't worry about me, okay? I'll be good. See? I'm not even crying."

To be frank, Aurora didn't understand why she wasn't crying. She felt shattered and weak, unable to process her thoughts. Everything still felt like a dream.

Just then, the chief driver spoke up, "Mrs. Cedric, you sent for me?"

"Take her home," Mrs. Cedric instructed. "Be careful and do your best to please her. I only trust you with this because you've been my personal driver for years. One complaint from her, and you'll be jobless."

As Mrs. Cedric pecked Aurora on the forehead and gave her a warm hug, she whispered, "Be good, sunshine. Call me often, too."