48
~Velma’s POV
“Spill the tea already, child,”
I cleared my throat slowly because my chest felt full, as if every memory I wanted to share had been waiting behind my ribs for years. My grandfather was still looking at me with those calm eyes, the kind that made me feel like I was safe to speak without hiding anything. He folded his hands on his lap and leaned forward just a little, like a man preparing to listen to a story he already knew would change him.
There was a pause between us. Not an awkward one. More like a door opening.
“It is a long story,” I said, my voice low and unsure because I still did not know how to fit everything into words.
Grandpa nodded, firm and gentle at the same time.
“Then spill it all,” he replied. “I want to hear everything. From the beginning. Do not
