“Seemed like the case.” She nodded to someone behind me. “And I thought you might want to meet Maureen.”

The gray-haired woman who’d brought my food to the table in the dining hall stood twisting her apron in her hands. “I hope I’ve not upset you.”

I smiled, hoping to calm her nerves. “No. Thank you for the food. It’s really good.”

“You’ve not eaten but a bite of it.”

“It got a little tense out there. Saoirse saved me.”

Saoirse laughed. “You’re being kind.” She motioned for Maureen to sit. “This lovely woman is Ciara’s mother. I believe she’s now with your father’s pack? She’d love if you’ve news of her daughter.”

Why hadn’t I seen the similarity sooner? It was the eyes. Maureen and Ciara weren’t even close to being copies of each other. Ciara must’ve had more of her father in her. But now that I knew who Maureen was, I could see that they had the same mouth, too.

“Ciara’s going to be so glad I met you.”

“How is she? I know she wasn’t well when she left, but I’ve hoped…” Maureen leaned forward, pleading for information.

I wanted to defend Ciara, but it wouldn’t do any good. Vivian’s actions and lies had done her damage years ago and it was probably ingrained, even in her mother. But Maureen clearly missed her daughter. “She’s actually doing great. She was supposed to help run our household, but somehow got stuck being my nanny. She’s not just pack to me. She’s family.”

Maureen’s eyes grew glossy with tears. She blinked a few times, and they slipped free. “But she was mad? How is that possible?” She rubbed her face dry. “I don’t understand.”

I fought the urge to shake the woman. How could she think that? “She’s not mad. Never was. If you want, I’d be happy to put you in contact with her. I think she misses you more than she says.”

“Oh.” Maureen opened and closed her mouth a few times before getting any words out. “I’m not sure. I… You’re sure she’s not mad?”

“Absolutely. If she were mad, she would’ve been taken care of a long time ago.” I touched her hand. “You’re aging. Wouldn’t you like to see your daughter? I guarantee she’s not mad.”

She shook her head. “I can’t. After burying my son, daughter, and mate… It’s time to let this life go. I’ve held onto the fonder memories.”