Asher returned her embrace, his own voice thick with emotion. “Mom, I’m okay. I promise.”
Asher’s mother, Lora, released him and turned toward Bella, who stood there, a little tense. But before Bella could react, Lora pulled her into a tight, heartfelt hug.
“Oh, Bella, sweetie,” she said, her voice soft but full of relief. “We were so worried about you, too. Thanks to the Goddess you’re safe.”
A deep, warm voice suddenly spoke up, laced with amusement. “Lora, my love, let the poor girl breathe before you end up strangling her.”
Lora laughed, reluctantly releasing Bella and stepping back with an apologetic smile. “Sorry, sweetie,” she said with a wink.
Bella took a deep breath, trying to steady herself as she turned to see who had spoken. Her eyes landed on a tall, broad-shouldered man
